Agenda, Session Descriptions and Speaker Bios
Jessica Thiel
Session 201: 8:00 am - 9:15 am
How To Train The Aging Adult Exercise has a powerful impact at any age, but how do you help a client when you’re unsure where to start? This session explores how to meet clients where they are, set meaningful goals, and guide them on a journey toward lasting, life-changing results. Learn how to create a deep, long-term impact with every client you work with.
Bio:Jessica Thiel is a dedicated trainer and muscle specialist with 15 years of experience in the fitness industry. She holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is a Muscle Activation Techniques Rx Practitioner. With a background in group fitness and a passion for continuous learning, she helps clients improve movement, strength, and overall functionality. In 2024, Jessica was FFC’s top trainer in revenue, sales, and sessions, reflecting her commitment to excellence and client success.
Stephanie Campione
Session 202: 9:30 am - 10:45 am
4Q Programming Model: People are complex, but programming does not have to be. The 4Q programming model, introduced by Michol Dalcourt takes a deep dive into the possibility of program design that is a results driven model, making your client more resilient than ever before. Stephanie has worked closely with Michol at Equinox Health Clubs and was a lead Master Instructor for teaching the 4Q model to trainers at the organization. In this course you will learn new program strategies to take your programming to the next level.
Bio: Stephanie Campione is a seasoned fitness professional with a Masters in Exercise Science and 22 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. She is the Fitness Director and a Level 4 Trainer at FFC Park Ridge. A Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Stephanie is also a StrongFirst Certified Instructor for Barbells and Kettlebells, dedicated to helping clients achieve strength and overall well-being.
Chris Berlanga
Session 203: 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Boxing For Life: This course equips fitness professionals with the fundamentals of boxing instruction, covering stance, footwork, punching mechanics, and defensive movements. Trainers will learn safe, effective coaching methods, workout structuring for all fitness levels, and strategies to boost client engagement and retention. By the end, participants will confidently integrate boxing into personal training to enhance results and business growth.
Bio:Chris Berlanga is a dedicated fitness professional with over seven years of experience at FFC. Starting as a Level 1 Personal Trainer, he advanced to Expert Trainer and Fitness Director at FFC Lincoln Park. Chris holds certifications as a USA Boxing Coach, USA Olympic Lifting Coach, Strong First Kettlebell, and Metabolic Specialist. He has been recognized as Fitness Director of the Year in 2022 and 2023. Outside of FFC, Chris has over 20 years of boxing experience and has coached clients to victory in the Chicago Golden Gloves. He is passionate about helping clients achieve their fitness goals and build resilience.
Laura Caputo
Session 204: 12:45 pm - 2:00 pm
Pilates for Low Back Injury Recovery and Prevention: This workshop will explore how Pilates can aid in low back injury recovery and prevention by improving core stability, mobility, and movement mechanics. This workshop will explore key principles of Pilates, common causes of low back pain from squatting and deadlifting, and practical
exercises to restore strength and prevent reinjury.
Bio: Laura Caputo is a highly qualified fitness professional with a diverse background in movement and strength training. She holds an MS in Exercise and Nutrition from Concordia University of Chicago and a BFA from Cornish College of the Arts. A NASM Certified Personal Trainer, USAW Level 1 Olympic Lifting Coach, and Pilates Certified instructor, Laura is also a Human Movement Specialist through the Brookbush Institute. She combines her expertise to help clients build strength, improve mobility, and enhance overall performance.
Chris Pelz
Session 205: 2:15 pm - 3:30 pm
Strength Training For Endurance Sports: This course teaches trainers how to integrate strength training into endurance athletes’ programs, optimizing it for various goals and backgrounds. It covers exercise selection for swimmers, cyclists, and runners, focusing on injury prevention and performance. Attendees will practice key exercises, learn proper cueing, and explore strategies for expanding their client base.
Bio: Chris has over six years of experience in triathlon training and nearly two years coaching endurance athletes. He specializes in optimizing strength training for endurance sports, helping athletes prevent injuries and improve performance. With a deep understanding of swimming, cycling, and running, Chris teaches how to integrate strength training into existing programs for long-term development. His hands-on approach ensures clients build resilience and maximize their potential in endurance sports.