TRAINERS

Meet the Training Staff for USA Elite Trainers


  • Chad 'CJ' Havunen Portrait
  • J. Loren Sisson Portrait
  • Linda Maher Portrait
  • Ryan Bielat Portrait
  • Terrence Bond Portrait
  • Albert 'Sonny' Sykes, Jr. Portrait
  • Arielle Salasky Portrait
  • Tonya Russell Portrait
  • Courtney Jones Portrait
  • N'Kelle 'Kel' Harper Portrait
  • Aaryn Smith Portrait
  • George Jones Portrait
SELECT A TRAINER
Click on a trainer to learn more
  • Chad 'CJ' Havunen Thumbnail
  • J. Loren Sisson Thumbnail
  • Linda Maher Thumbnail
  • Ryan Bielat Thumbnail
  • Terrence Bond Thumbnail
  • Albert 'Sonny' Sykes, Jr. Thumbnail
  • Arielle Salasky Thumbnail
  • Tonya Russell Thumbnail
  • Courtney Jones Thumbnail
  • Phil Jensen Thumbnail
  • Aaryn Smith Thumbnail
  • George Smith Thumbnail
  • CHAD 'CJ' HAVUNEN

    Location: All
    Director of Fitness Operations/Personal Trainer
    SVCC Associates Degree
    ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer & Nutritional Specialist

    Chad 'CJ' Havunen Photo

    Training Statement:
    "No Matter Who - No Matter the Goal"

    The Motto "being the best at whatever you do" applies to my life in two ways. First, I am a Professional Natural Bodybuilder that seeks perfection. Secondly, as a Personal Fitness Trainer with USA Elite Trainers, I assist others in seeking their ideal body. Combining hard work with an optimistic attitude has helped me transform my body. Now I want to pass along my knowledge to help you achieve your goals.

    It is my job to understand what goals you want to accomplish and outline a lifestyle for you that will help you reach your goals. No matter what level you start from, (or are on) there are certain training principles I teach that will help you achieve a goal.

    I believe that we should strive to be the best at what we do, and with a positive and optimistic outlook no goal is unattainable. Combining this type of attitude, along the professional workout and nutrition systems that USA Elite Trainers offer, you will reach your goals.

    Specialties:
    •Maximize "Gym Time" Efficiency
    •Nutrition
    •Supplements & Workouts
    •Reducing Body Fat
    •Increase Lean Muscle
    •Contest Preparation

  • J. LOREN SISSON

    Location: Haygood
    PT Manager, Haygood Location
    W.I.T.S. Certified Personal Trainer
    Bachelor's Degree – Randolph-Macon College

    J. Loren Sisson Photo

    Training Statement:
    "Don't count the days, make the days count."
    -Muhammad Ali

    My name is Loren Sisson and I've chosen personal training as my profession to share the many benefits of physical fitness. I am a strong supporter and lifetime advocate of an active and healthy lifestyle.

    My fitness experiences as a collegiate basketball player at Randolph-Macon College taught me that teamwork and discipline are crucial ingredients to personal success. At Randolph-Macon we preached the idea that "you'll never walk alone" and that simple philosophy has helped to shape my approach to personal training. My mission is to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with you and provide you the tools to achieve each and every one of your fitness goals.

    Training with me means "you'll never walk alone". I will support, guide and motivate you. I will commit all of my personal training resources to your success. I am excited about the opportunity to work with USA Elite Trainers. Their mission to provide "Professional Guidance, Personal Results" means they share and support my commitment to you! I look forward to meeting you and beginning to "make the days count".

    Specialties:
    •Weight Loss
    •Strength & Endurance Training
    •Cardiovascular Endurance
    •Improving self image
    •Sport Specific Training

  • LINDA MAHER

    Location: Mt. Pleasant
    Regional Manager
    ACE Certified Personal Trainer
    ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor
    American Heart Association CPR/AED, First Aid

    Linda Maher Photo

    Training Statement:
    Growing up, I was thin and I took it for granted. As I got older, I gained weight, because I didn't have the knowledge to prevent it. As I learned more about physical fitness, I realize that although I used to be thin, I was not fit.

    Now that I have made a healthy lifestyle a priority, I am very passionate about it. I asked myself, "How can I help others avoid the mistakes I made in the past?"

    Personal Training is now my passion. I earned my certification through the American Council on Exercise, and I am excited to share what I have learned with you. One very important thing that I have learned from my personal experience is that even achieving a small short term goal can give you more confidence, which can create a domino effect to help you reach your long term goals.

    I believe that working out should be fun and make you feel good. It is important not only to focus on a destination, but to enjoy the journey to get there.

    Specialties:
    •Improved self esteem
    •Reduced body fat
    •Enhanced strength
    •Better sleep

  • RYAN BIELAT

    Location: Great Neck
    PT Manager
    W.I.T.S. Certified Personal Trainer
    Crossfit Level 1 Certified Instructor

    Ryan Bielat Photo

    Training Statement:
    "Visualize and Commit to that Next Step"

    Leading a healthy and active lifestyle is something that I am very passionate about. Throughout my life, no matter where I am, I have found that incorporating a healthy balance of exercise and nutrition has always lead me to be happier and have more energy . This is why I have chosen a career as a personal trainer. I earned my personal trainer certification from the World Instructor Training School along with a Level 1 Crossfit instructor certification from the University of San Diego and I am eager to share what I have learned. Helping others to reach their goals gives me just as much satisfaction and energy as reaching goals I have set for myself.

    I am confident that with my knowledge, the tools available, and the fundamentals we represent at USA Elite Trainers no goal is out of reach. Whether it be to lose a few pounds for a season, improve muscle tone or a total body transformation I am sure that with hard work and my support we will reach that goal!

    Specialties:
    •Reduce Body Fat
    •Increase Muscular/ Cardiovascular Endurance
    •Crossfit Workout Intensity
    •Nutritional Consultation
    •Maximize "Gym-Time Efficiency"
    •Increase Energy

  • TERRENCE BOND

    Location: Haygood
    ACT Certified Personal Trainer

    Terrence Bond Photo

    Training Statement:
    "Do Fitness with purpose."

    My name is Bond......Terrence Bond. All of my life I have gotten that joke from people. Coincidently, my approach, dedication and intensity rival that of '007' himself. As your personal trainer my goal and commitment is to take you to the next level in your physical fitness. I am a firm believer in the concept of " Total Fitness." In short, that is training the Mind, Mouth, Attitude and Body.

    My philosophy in life is simply this: ' Do it with Purpose!' Whatever that may be, but none more important than with fitness & nutrition. If you're going to put time and money into a valuable project like your own body, then maximize your time and results, do it with purpose! Given the tried and proven diet and workout programs with USA Elite Trainers, together, you and I can and will take you to the next level to achieve YOUR TOTAL FITNESS GOALS. Even more we will have fun in the process.

    Specialties:
    •Weight loss
    •Strength Training
    •How to Increase Muscle Mass
    •Workout Efficiency
    •Muscle Stamina
    •Proper Nutrition & Supplementation

  • ALBERT 'SONNY' SYKES, JR.

    Location: Kempsriver
    Professional Fitness Trainer
    ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer
    ISSA Certified Specialist in Performance Nutrition

    Albert 'Sonny' Sykes, Jr. Photo

    Training Statement:
    "I'm here to provide you the tools you need in order to achieve the goals you wish to attain."

    My philosophy is simple: "I will strive to continue to go the extra mile for all my clients and all patrons who want and desire a change". I have worked with many walks of life to help achieve their personal fitness goals. With my experience of working with military members and many elite fitness centers in NYC, I have learned many tools and techniques that I can implement to make working out a unique and exciting experience. Whether it is weight loss, strength conditioning, bulk up or simply looking for a challenge I will guarantee you results. As a Cardiopulmonary Specialist in the US Air Force Reserves, I have learned about the human anatomy, the importance of a healthy life and what it takes to ensure proper conditioning, nutrition and the keys to maintain an Elite lifestyle. Fitness is not a chore or obligation but rather a way of life. USA Elite Trainers and I see eye to eye on all facets of the fitness industry but nothing more clearly than our vision to see our clients succeed and continue to assist them achieve their fitness goals.

    Specialties:
    •Nutrition (understanding meal preparation)
    •Supplementation
    •How to reduce body fat
    •Workouts
    •Increasing self esteem
    •How to increase lean muscle

  • ARIELLE SALASKY

    Location: Great Neck
    W.I.T.S. Certified Personal Trainer

    Arielle Salasky Photo

    Training Statement:
    "Let me help you get fit for life!"

    My name is Arielle Salasky and I am from the Virginia Beach area. I fell in love with fitness after training and completing my first marathon. It was the most satisfying feeling in the world accomplishing something that took many months of training. Leading up to the race I was searching for guidance and advice on nutrition, various training methods and stretches. I quickly found myself enrolled in the World Instructor Training School, where I received my personal trainer certification. I have learned the most effective and efficient ways to maximize a workout and am eager to share these techniques with others to help everyone reach their fitness goals!

    Today I am extremely passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle thru diet and exercise. I am here to motivate and help you lose weight, and push thru any obstacles that might be holding you back. By combining strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, core work, and flexibility into your daily workout regiment you will naturally become stronger and leaner but also add quality and function to your daily life.

    With my passion, experience in fitness training, and nutritional knowledge, powered with the tried and true nutrition and workout programs designed by USA Elite Trainers, you will have every tool available to succeed!

    Specialties:
    • Endurance conditioning
    •Weight loss and body fat reduction
    •Circuit training
    •Motivation
    •Increase energy

  • TONYA RUSSELL

    Location: Kempsriver
    ACE Certified Personal Trainer
    Certified Class Instructor

    Tonya Russell Photo

    Training Statement:
    "I truly believe fitness and healthy nutrition create an optimal lifestyle!"

    I believe that you truly can do and be whatever you want. There are always obstacles that try to prevent us from achieving certain goals but there are also always ways to get past them.

    I started in the fitness industry 9 years ago and it has been a huge part of my life every day since. There is nothing that I enjoy more than helping someone reach and maintain their fitness goals. Once we get started I promise that you will fall in love with fitness just as I did.

    I am an Ace certified personal trainer, spin and aerobics instructor, as well as Kettle bell certified. I am very fortunate to work as a USA Elite Trainer. We offer the most professional workouts and nutrition systems that you can find.

    So that being said, what are you waiting for? As Nike says "Just Do It"

    Specialties:
    •Building lean muscle
    •Decreasing body fat
    •Fun and exciting workouts
    •More energy
    •Improve self esteem

  • COURTNEY JONES

    Location: Haygood
    Personal Trainer
    National Personal Training Institute

    Courtney Jones Photo

    Training Statement:
    "I truly believe fitness and healthy nutrition create an optimal lifestyle!"

    Throughout my past experiences of working out, caption of my softball and cheerleading team, I developed the leading drive to push others to excel and achieve their ultimate goals. It was an amazing feeling knowing I led them to fitness levels they never thought possible. This motivated me to dedicate myself to helping others, and also led me to attend the National Personal Training Institute to become a certified fitness trainer.

    As your Personal Trainer, I will build a program designed specifically for your needs, current goals, and long term goals. I will provide the motivation, accountability, knowledge, and the "push" you need that will guarantee success and help you achieve your goals!

    The National Personal Training Institute further instilled in me important fitness fundamentals and how to educate and promote that life style to you. With my passion, experience in fitness training, and nutritional knowledge, powered with the tried and true nutrition and workout programs designed by USA Elite Trainers, you will have every tool available to succeed!

    It starts with a decision – the decision you make to take the first step. Today is the day to take that step, and it is where everything begins. I'm ready – Are you?

    Specialties:
    •Muscular/Cardiovascular Endurance
    •Improving Flexibility
    •Weight loss and weight gain
    •Nutritional Counseling
    •Group Training
    •Improve Self Confidence
    •Motivation

  • PHIL JENSEN

    Location: Mt. Pleasant & Kempsriver
    Personal Trainer
    Bachelor's Degree – Technical Management
    ACE certified Personal Trainer
    ACE certified Lifestyles and Weight Management Consultant

    Phil Jensen Photo

    Training Statement:
    "Reach your goals."

    I started and maintained a fitness oriented lifestyle while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard for 21-years. Being able to help others succeed in their fitness goals has always been a desire of mine, whether that is through weight training, cardio, nutritional guidance, or merely providing life style recommendations to improve as an individual both mentally and physically. I believe staying healthy is the key to staying active throughout the entirety of life; my goal is to help you develop the physical tools to ensure you overcome the obstacles in day to day life by providing you the guidance needed to meet your fitness goals.

    As former U.S. Coast Guard Health Promotions Coordinator and current ACE certified personal trainer coupled with my fitness experience and background, I am now able to pass along the pieces of the fitness puzzle to individuals who want to make a positive change in their health and lifestyle. I want to make your fitness experience significant, focused but mainly enjoyable and exciting. My outlook when it comes to exercise is that if you don't enjoy it, then you won't keep doing it. Consequently, whether you are trying to become stronger, faster, or slimmer and more tone, there is no goal that cannot be reached when you are determined to succeed.

    Specialties:
    •Strength Training
    •Increase Flexibility
    •Increase Endurance
    •Weight Maintenance

  • AARYN SMITH

    Location: Redmill
    Personal Trainer
    ISSA Certified Personal Trainer

    Training Statement:
    "Don't let your only regret be; that you didn't try"

    My name is Aaryn Smith. Let me start by telling you I am huge fitness enthusiast. After spending 10 years in the Navy I know that everyone has a different way of living and that we all encounter different challenges in every aspect of it. I learned that a healthy active lifestyle is one of the key components to confronting physical challenges life puts in front of you. This also drove me to obtaining my CFT with ISSA so I would further fuel my passion for fitness and be able to help other with these every day nutrition and fitness challenges.

    I am here to work alongside people and help them achieve their personal goals along with making lifestyle changes that help relieve stress and gain confidence through physical fitness. I enjoy numerous physical activities including kickboxing, martial arts and yoga along with core functional training for physical results! I like to incorporate all this into my workouts and with the experience I have achieved from training with my fellow service members, clients and USA Elite Trainers, I like to keep fitness fun and challenging, providing results without becoming redundant.

    Specialties:
    •Weight Loss
    •Improved Self Esteem
    •Motivation
    •Muscle Strength
    •Physical Endurance
    •Flexibility and Mobility

  • GEORGE JONES

    Location: Mt. Pleasant
    Personal Trainer
    WITS Certified Fitness Trainer

    Training Statement:
    "If you keep doing what you did, you'll keep getting what you got"

    I have been following the fitness and body building lifestyle all of my life, having started lifting weights as a teenager. I apply the motto "if you keep doing what you did, you'll keep getting what you got" to all my clients. But after 30 years as a blue collar worker, I changed my career to my lifelong ambition to be a Personal Fitness Trainer, fulfilling the intention of that motto, which is to make the changes that are most beneficial.

    I especially enjoy the watching my clients' attitude change toward their bodies and their life, as they start to see results and reach their goals. I also have found a great passion for helping the more ambitious clients who wish to push the envelope. I trained my own nephew for his first body building competition recently, where he won two trophies.

    I am excited to be here with USA Elite Trainers and be able to further pass on our proven fitness and nutrition programs. Your situation is never a barrier to finding a program that works for you. I know - I've been overweight, injured, worked long days, was a single parent – I still made it to the gym! I was disciplined and followed good advice, and achieved my goals. You can too, and I can help!

    Specialties:
    •Motivation and Confidence-building
    •Training for sports' enhancement
    •Form and range-of-motion control
    •Weight loss (or gain) advice
    •Contest training and prep