Meet Our Personal Trainers

LeQuae "Quae" Caldwell

Growing up, I met many challenges, I have always had a passion for sports and fitness, and then I found wrestling, which made me value my health and fitness at a young age. I eventually joined the U.S. Navy, which gave me the direction and skills I am eternally grateful for and helped with my passion for training. While serving in the Navy, I was able to help improve the mental health of others through fitness, all while building their confidence. I am currently an active bodybuilder with aspirations to compete professionally. I have also been training for 10 years. My ultimate goal is to be able to motivate and provide my personal training knowledge to transform people’s lives through fitness.

Laura Hancuff

I’m Laura Hancuff—a former Marine turned ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist. My diverse training background includes MMA, Olympic weightlifting, and certifications in various fitness disciplines, showcasing my versatility. As a 2-time Tough Mudder finisher, I embody resilience and strength, instilling these qualities in my clients. Beyond training, I’m a life-changer passionate about helping people surpass their limits. Personally, I’m a wife, and mother of two, and enjoy hobbies like hiking, camping, and photography. With a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Wellness from Purdue, I’m not just a fitness expert; I’m your guide and inspiration on the journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Taylor Hoffman

I’ve been with the YMCA for over 3 Years. My journey at the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA began after my second child was born and I wanted a family-friendly physical fitness center. Having grown up as a three-sport athlete in Softball, Basketball, and Volleyball, my love for fitness has only grown stronger over the years with learning, training and keeping up with a household of 3 kids. I got my Personal Training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I love training all, especially helping with reconditioning and helping women feel comfortable in the gym. I am always running around the Y so if you have any questions, please feel free to stop me. Can’t wait to meet you!

Linda McBride

I am a certified Personal Trainer and am also certified in Senior Fitness and Fitness Nutrition. I have a passion for meeting clients where they are and supporting a journey to nutritional and/or physical fitness. To me, it is about feeling strong and healthy and being physically able to do the things you want to do. It is about supporting your journey and helping you meet your goals in a safe, effective way.

Arron Schaffer

Fitness is a huge part of my life. It has helped me recover from Lyme Disease and other struggles throughout my life. This has given me a passion to help others live healthier lives. I have always been an athlete and I love helping the next generation achieve their goals. My goal as a trainer is to meet you where you’re at and help you increase your health and fitness according to your personal needs. I got my certification from National Academy of Sports Medicine. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you however I can.

Leah Biek

Hi, I’m Leah! I’m passionate about promoting wholeness through fitness. As a wife and mother of seven, I understand the challenge of balancing family life with personal health. While I love training everyone, my heart is especially dedicated to empowering women and girls. I believe that confidence in the weight room comes from mastering proper form and technique. Fitness is just one of the pieces in the bigger picture of wholeness, and I’m looking forward to coming alongside others on this journey, as we learn together how to fit fitness into your daily schedules and help you live a happy and healthy life.

Chris Hoffman

I am a lifelong believer that "Exercise is the Best Medicine." I am dedicated to helping my senior peers to gain the confidence to improve their quality of life through strength, balance, and mobility training. Together we will plan and implement an exercise routine that is safe, simple, and focused on your specific needs. I hold a Bachelor's Degree from Indiana University; Personal Training Certification through World Instructor Training School (an NCAA Fitness Training Provider); Certifications in Correctional and Functional Training and Moving Through Arthritis (ACE Continuing Education programs.) Group Exercise Training for Seniors; Enhance Fitness and LIVESTRONG Program. I have been a group and personal training instructor since 2018.

Zane Lute

Growing up playing sports, I found a passion for an active lifestyle that has greatly benefited both my mental and physical health. So, I decided to become a PT so I could pass my knowledge on to others. While I'm passionate about bodybuilding, I believe fitness is for everyone and I strive to help people feel more comfortable and confident in the gym with their own personal fitness journey. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, or enhance overall wellness, I am here to help. I currently hold two certifications through NASM, CPT, and Physique and Bodybuilding Coach, and I am currently working on other courses. 

Personal Trainers in South Bend are available for scheduling at both the Downtown South Bend YMCA and the YMCA O'Brien Center. Speak with your trainer to schedule sessions at your preferred location.

Jason Brandt

I have always been involved with sports and athletics. As an adult, I found more passion for strength training and overall fitness. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Indiana University and I am certified as a personal trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine. My goal is to help people gain confidence in themselves and their ability to train efficiently and effectively in whatever avenue of fitness they seek and enjoy.

Pita Camargo

I believe in a balanced approach to fitness that encompasses strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and flexibility. My goal is to create customized workout plans that challenge you and fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you're aiming for weight loss, muscle gain, or want to feel healthier overall, I'm here to guide and support you every step of the way.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science from Indiana University and a Personal Trainer Certification from the American College of Sports Medicine. I also teach group fitness classes such as boot camp and cycling. Outside of the gym, you might find me exploring local hiking trails with my two dogs. I'm excited to help you on your path to a healthier, happier you!

Milt Cooper

I am a seasoned professional with a rich background in athletics and coaching. I graduated from Indiana University, where I had the privilege of learning under renowned figures such as Bobby Knight, Jerry Yeagley, and Doc Councilman, all distinguished champions in their respective sports. Throughout my 42-year career in teaching and coaching, I specialized in track and decathlon under the mentorship of Coach Sam Bell. My coaching journey includes leading basketball teams to four Elite 8 appearances among hundreds of high school athletes. Notably, I facilitated academic opportunities for over 70% of my players through financial support, enabling them to pursue and achieve college degrees. As a trainer, my goal is to get the most out of my clients so they can live a long healthy, and happy life.

Nicci Dewitt

My love for fitness started when I was in 6th grade and my mother got me a membership to Fitness USA. From there it grew into group fitness and personal training. I am certified as an ACE personal trainer and hold multiple certifications for group fitness. I have been with the Y for 17 years now, helping our members find a healthier version of themselves no matter their fitness background. So, whether you are new or seasoned or somewhere in between I’d love to help you work toward your goals!

Kevin Gray

My fitness journey started with a love for sports and blossomed during my years as a college baseball player. As a personal trainer since 2014, I hold certifications in strength and conditioning, corrective exercise, sports nutrition, and more. I’ve coached baseball for 10 years and trained athletes with the South Bend Cubs travel teams, focusing on enhancing functional fitness. My goal is to build lasting connections with clients, making exercise enjoyable and seamlessly integrating wellness into daily life. Outside of work, I love spending time with my wife, son, and our dog, Nala.

Christina Howland

I’m passionate about helping others embrace a healthy lifestyle that is both enjoyable and attainable. With over a decade of experience in fitness, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding individuals through group exercise classes and personal training, using my certifications from the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA),  American Council on Exercise (ACE), and the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA).

My journey in the military has shaped my approach to wellness, teaching me the importance of discipline, resilience, and dedication. I strive to inspire and motivate others to push their limits while maintaining a focus on overall well-being. When I’m not in the gym, I’m running long distances, exploring the outdoors, or enjoying quality time with my Chihuahua, Bella.

Crystal Jordaski

I joined the YMCA in 2016 as a participant in the LiveStrong program for adult cancer survivors. By the end of the 12-week program, I knew I wanted to become a LiveStrong instructor. I believe God had given me a new purpose: to help others facing similar challenges. A year after graduating from LiveStrong, I became a certified coach. Since then, I’ve earned certifications in group fitness, diabetes prevention, blood pressure self-monitoring, Enhanced Fitness, health coaching, and personal training. If you’re ready to make a change, I would be honored to help you reach your goals.

Karin Lanning

Hi! My name is Karin Lanning. My interest in wellness began to prevent a third back surgery fifteen years ago. My passion for fitness blossomed as a Zumba© instructor and I started to pursue other certifications: ACE Group Fitness, Personal Training, Health & Wellness Coaching, five Les Mills © programs, LiveStrong at the YMCA, YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, Pilates Mat, Reformer, and 200hr Yoga Alliance RYT. My passions outside of work include riding motorcycles, gardening, animals, and kayaking. I strive to find the positive in life and to have fun while overcoming obstacles.

My goal as a Certified ACE Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer is to help you identify, reach, and maintain your best self, by developing positive, lifelong habits. Those goals may include fitness, nutrition adherence, prioritizing self-care, stress reduction, better sleep, or any other health-related concern. I encourage my clients to become aware of their strengths, and celebrate them while learning to overcome challenges to achieve their Best Self!

Makayla Schoen

I started strength training in high school and fell in love with getting stronger and learning about fitness. I love helping people discover confidence, strength, and resiliency through strength training and functional movement. I empower my clients to feel more comfortable in the weight room while exercising safely and effectively.

Shay Shema

Hi, I’m Shay! A dedicated personal trainer who loves strength training and healthy weight management. I love to create personalized strength routines and sustainable weight management plans to help clients achieve their fitness goals. Outside the gym, I enjoy spending quality time with my dog, Eli, who inspires me to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.