Meet the Trainers 
Looking for a personal trainer to help guide you along your health & fitness journey? Read through our roster of trainer bios to find an expert who feels like a good fit for you and your goals. Don't forget to sign up for your FREE Get Started!
I find joy in not only helping people work towards their fitness goals, but also in helping people feel more comfortable in the gym. As a former multisport athlete with a Kinesiology degree from Michigan State University, my passion for fitness and movement fuels my commitment to enhancing others' well-being.
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.
Building lasting connections with clients is my aim- blending exercise and wellness seamlessly into everyday life. My journey into fitness started with a love for sports and blossomed during my years as a college baseball player. I want training to be enjoyable, not a burdensome task forced upon you.
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.
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!
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.
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. 
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.
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.
