Our Staff
Find out more about us!
Michelle Walters
Manager/PersonalTrainer
Hi, I’m Michelle! I’ve been managing Wildwood Fitness since 2012. I’m a certified personal trainer with AFAA, with advanced personal training courses. I also have a post rehab certification. I am a certified fitness instructor and have been teaching classes for 28 years now. I’m also a life coach with 10 years experience. I help people become the best they can be by clearing unconscious belief systems that stand in their way. I love what I do and am always looking for that “aha” moment of new insight and clarity. It is wonderfully rewarding to see people improve. My joy is to assist them!
Wildwood Fitness is a jewel of a gym to be a part of. We have a lot of fun while we get fit and healthy.
Helen Cope
Front Desk
Hi! I am Helen Cope and I have had the privilege of working and working out at the Wildwood Fitnes Center since April 2008. Typically, you will find me behind the front desk on Sunday mornings. I can’t imagine not having the Wildwood Fitness Center as part of my life!
We have caring and helpful staff, well maintained equipment, typically no waiting for machines, and the greatest members. Whether you are an experienced exerciser or someone just starting and exercise program, you will find what you need at our facility. I look forward to seeing you at Wildwood Fitness Center!
Denise Benevento
Instructor
Hi! My name is Denise Benevento. I have been teaching Spinning/Body Sculpting Classes and working the front desk for 10 years now. I was born in Marysville and attended Jr. College in Santa Monica. I received my physical education degree Sacramento State and my group instruction certification from I.D.E.A. I love our little gym and the members make it a fun place to come to work out!
Nita Louise
Yoga Therapist/Cosmetologist
Yoga therapist and Cosmetologist – I work on Inner and Outer Beauty! I have been teaching Yoga for 48 years, 35 here in Penn Valley, Nevada City, Grass Valley, and Auburn. I’ve been a Hair Stylist for 53 years almost. I work at Special FX and I have a shop at Wolf Creek Care Center. I have 2 children, Greg 49 and Stacie, 48. They are in the Fitness Business. I have lived here in Penn Valley for 35 years and Love it!
Curt Asher
MMA Fighter and Instructor
MMA Fighter and Instructor – I have Black Belts in Kempo and Kung Fu Karate and have competed in kickboxing and have experience in muay thai boxing. I trained in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu for over 20 years, and have over 35 years experience in Martial Arts. I have trained with many UFC fighters. So come on in for a private lesson.
Kristi Blowers-Merten
Instructor
I have been involved in the fitness industry for 30+ years, including being a studio owner. I love to exercise and help others obtain their goals. I am a AFAA certified group instructor, & a ISSA certified personal trainer. I have several different certifications in Zumba specialities, which can be viewed on zumba.com. Be healthy, be happy.
Rachel Grivas
Instructor
Rachel has been teaching pilates is since 2015. Learning from master trainer Jene Sullivan in San Francisco. Her studies were focused and rehabilitation for a myriad of age and skill. Rachel grew up as a dancer and athlete during her child and young adult years. After sustaining some injury from this she began to research, study, and train in different forms a functional fitness and rehabilitation methods. Aside from being certified in teaching Pilates Rachel is also a certified barre teacher and holds a certification from Sierra College for personal training and nutrition. Her style of teaching is focused on education with a fun and uplifting environment.
