Our Team

Available Trainers

CORA-ANN LICWINKO, MS, STUDIO MANAGER

Education/Experience:

  • MS in Exercise Science (Indiana State University)
  • BS in Exercise Science, minor in Psychology (Montclair State University)
  • Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT- 500)
  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • ACE Group Fitness Instructor
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach
  • NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist
  • GGS Pre and Post Natal Coach
  • Pain-free Performance Specialist (PPSC)
  • Girls Gone Strong Certified Women’s Coaching Specialist
  • American Red Cross AED & First Aid Certified

Strengths/Specialties

  • Beginners to Advanced
  • Pre & Post Natal / Women’s Health
  • Strength Training
  • Overall Health & Wellness
  • Post-Rehab
  • Weight Loss/Body Composition

I am on a mission to encourage and inspire as many people as possible to find joy in moving their bodies! I believe fitness can be a path toward appreciation for your body, by cultivating healthy decisions and a healthy mindset. Much of my personal life has been transformed through fitness. As I worked on building my strength up, I found that I had even more inner strength to overcome obstacles, self-doubt, and insecurity. Every client I work with comes from a different background and relationship with their body and with exercise, so I am driven to make it an experience that feels right for them and where they are at in their journey.

I am full of positivity, passion, and enthusiasm. I think that the key to health and wellness lies first in connecting yourself on your truest deepest level. The better you know yourself, the better you can make decisions that align with your true self. There is a lot of interesting and sometimes conflicting or confusing information about health and wellness out there today. I like to help clients sort through the confusion and find a path that works for them.

Abby Kerwan

Education/Experience:

  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR/AED Certified

Strengths/Specialties

  • All Fitness Levels
  • Strength Training
  • Functional Mobility
  • Women’s Health
  • Weight Loss & Body Composition
  • Holistic & Transformational Coaching Style
My passion for fitness is rooted in the belief that movement is medicine. Growing up as an athlete, I split my time between dance, softball, gymnastics, and volleyball. Throughout high school and college, I began to prioritize resistance training to maintain my strength after sports, but I quickly noticed a drastic shift in my mindset. I embraced this newfound positivity and haven’t looked back since! While studying interactive design at West Virginia University, I was recruited by Campus Recreation to join the personal training staff. I dove right into the training world as a strength and conditioning coach, F45 instructor, and personal trainer.
 
I am an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and dedicated wellness advocate. I take a holistic approach to support you in making sustainable lifestyle improvements. My goal is to help you build confidence in the gym with strength and mobility so you can integrate fitness into your daily life. Beyond the gym, you can find me at the farmers market, cooking, or at the lake back home in NY!

Bryan Cobcobo

Education/Experience:

  • A.S. Degree in Exercise Science
  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR/AED Certified
  • Physical Therapy Aide
  • U.S. Army Paratrooper

 

Strengths/Specialties

  • Beginners to Advanced
  • Progress Tracking
  • Strength Training
  • Muscle Growth
Strongly motivated by the results from hard work. I believe that exercise is the key to living a happier and healthier life. Aside from being a long-term athlete, my strong drive for fitness really started when I joined the U.S. Army. From physical training every morning, to jumping off planes at night, the army gave me the discipline to stay physically and mentally in-shape to accomplish my mission.
My commitment now is with you and your fitness goals. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, or simply cultivate a healthier lifestyle, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I’m passionate about empowering my clients with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives. Together, we will celebrate your progress, push past boundaries, and develop a sustainable approach to fitness that fits your unique lifestyle. I also am an avid note-taker to make sure that your progress is being recorded.

NICKI THURSTON, CSCS

Education/Experience:

  • MS in Exercise Science with a concentration in Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention
  • NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
  • NASE Speed Specialist Certification (NASE-CSS)
  • CPR/AED/First Aid

Strengths/Specialties

  • Sports Performance Enhancement
  • Strength Training
  • Plyometric Training
  • Speed, Agility & Quickness Training

I started working out at age 15 to improve my performance on the field hockey field. It quickly progressed into a passion, so I decided to pursue Exercise Science. When my collegiate field hockey career ended, I never stopped training to maintain my strength and athleticism. My coaching practices are evidence-based and goal-driven. Before we begin training, I will conduct a thorough needs analysis and performance assessments utilizing our cutting-edge technology from VALD. Based on that information, I will build a periodized program that is 100% tailored to your performance goals. I firmly believe movement is key to unlocking optimal performance, health, and happiness. My training philosophies include keeping it simple and striving for consistency over perfection.

I have been working with Nicki for over a year and I’m so grateful to have such an amazing trainer to teach me how to properly train and discover my strength. Nicki is incredible in all aspects. She always pushes me to meet my goals for the day whether it’s to max out on a set or simply get through the whole workout. Nicki has helped improve my endurance through various muscular and speed training exercises while also improving my confidence. She always makes sure to check in with how I am doing and never fails to put a smile on my face or make me laugh even through the hardest workouts. I’m beyond happy to have Nicki as my personal trainer. -Kaitlyn M.

I have been training with Nicki at Ignite Fitness since the end of April. My experience has been nothing short of great. Nicki is very patient, detailed, and encouraging. My knowledge is very limited when it comes to exercise, so I trust her 100% in helping develop a fitness plan to reach my goals. I highly recommend her if you’re looking for a trainer.  -Jamie L

I needed personal attention due to my learning style, and also the fact that every other group method just failed. Group classes no matter how good they are focused on individuals who could always do a lot more than I could, and were a waste of time and money. Shout out to Nicki, she knows a lot about musculoskeletal system, and with my injuries able to guide me via a personalized plan in the right direction. I feel a difference already!    -Sumit S.

TRISHA MCDUFFEE

Education/Experience:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer

  • TRX Qualified Trainer

  • Certified Holistic Health Coach, Institute for Integrative Nutrition

  • Les Mills BodyPump, BodyCombat, BodyAttack and BodyBalance

  • CPR/AED/First Aid

Strengths/Specialties

  • Women 40+ Fitness
  • Beginners Fitness
  • Teen Beginners
  • Senior Fitness

My fitness journey began while seeking to improve my own well-being after having children.  As a stay-at-home mom, I began teaching group exercise classes and have been motivating and guiding clients as a group fitness instructor for 16 years, with BodyPump holding a special place in my heart!

In 2023, I left the corporate world to dedicate myself to guiding others on their unique wellness journeys. Through personalized coaching and engaging sessions, we’ll discover sustainable habits that support weight loss, improved strength, and overall well-being.

Denzel Trainer

DENZEL WEBB

Education/Experience:

  • BS Exercise Physiology (UNC-Pembroke)
  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • TRX Qualified Trainer
  • CPR/AED Certified

Strengths/Specialties:

  • -Beginners/Intermediate
  • -Teen/Pre-teen Fitness
  • -Hypertrophy Training (Building Muscle)
  • -Weight Loss

My road to fitness was paved out of necessity.  I was about 25lbs overweight in my adolescent years and was subject to teasing because of it. My dad guided my weight loss by helping me practice self-control and make better foods choices, instead of eating everything in sight. His guidance combined with regular HIIT workouts, to include sprinting and jumping rope, helped me lose the weight.  My motivation to look like the athletes I admired on TV was strong and It also lead to the appeal of weight training. After experiencing the benefits of weight training, finally being able to play the sports that I love and just feeling better about myself in general, I realized that fitness was what I wanted to do with my life.

I work with all ability levels, from beginner to athlete. I’d love the opportunity work with you and establish the appropriate routines to motivate your fitness. I realize that everyone’s story and situation is different. Together we can figure out what works for you.

I have been working with Denzel for about 8 months and he is a fantastic trainer. He pushes you to achieve your goals and creates a comfortable environment at the same time. He also stays on top of new techniques and applies them with his clients which is amazing. Ignite fitness is also a top notch facility with the best equipment out there. It is a first class gym!  -Austin M

Denzel has been our trainer for about over 5 months. My husband and I love working with him. He listens to our requests and modifies if necessary. Sometimes we may come in not wanting to start, we always leave feeling accomplished. We both notice our bodies getting stronger which was our main goal. Thanks to Denzel for making working out enjoyable. – Cassie M

I was about to turn 57 and wanted to finally get in good shape.  Denzel listened to my concerns and what my goals were and put together a program to fit my needs.  He’s so positive and encouraging and always keeps the workouts fresh, challenging and fun.  I could feel and see my progress within a few weeks.  He’s very knowledgeable about how the body works.  I always look forward to each session and it never felt like work!  I highly recommend Denzel if you’re serious about  getting stronger and feeling better.  -Kim E

Diane Hunter

Education/Experience:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • NASM Certified Youth Exercise Specialist
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition Coach
  • CPR/AED Certified

Strengths/Specialties

  • Weight Loss & Nutrition
  • Strength Training
  • Beginners
  • Youth Athletes

I grew up in a small town on the coast of North Carolina. Health and fitness was not always my main focus and I was overweight for most of my life. While I was in college, I decided to make changes and take my health and fitness seriously. With that,  I jumped in with both feet and have never looked back. I enjoy many different forms of exercise but strength training was the first form to really capture my heart. I want to take that passion and share it with others!

I have a strong belief that training and exercise should enhance your life. It should make things better and more enjoyable. With me, you can expect to be challenged, encouraged, and empowered. Beyond the physical benefits of training, the confidence that it brings is an additional bonus that speaks volumes!

I have been working with Diane Hunter at Ignite Fitness. Diane is positive, encouraging and flexible. She creates workouts that are challenging and fun. I have seen great results in just 3 months. I highly recommend Diane & Ignite Fitness! -Katie C.

Kevin

KEVIN MILLER, CSCS

Education/Experience:

  • BS Exercise Physiology (SUNY Brockport)
  • NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • PTA Global Personal Training Certification
  • PTA Global-Advanced
  • TRX Functional Training Certificate
  • CPR/AED Certified

Strengths/Specialties

  • Strength Training/Hypertrophy
  • Sports Performance Training
  • Injury Prevention/Post-Rehab
  • Weight Loss & Body Composition
  • Gait Analysis and Running Mechanics
  • Low-Key, Calm Coaching Style

Kevin recently moved to Apex from Rochester, NY after 8 years of experience training in health club and sports performance settings. He enjoys working with athletes of all ages and abilities. His calm, reassuring demeanor is appreciated by most clients, especially beginners, while his knowledge of mechanics and safe ranges of motion are great for people recovering from or working around injuries. 

JOHNNIE STRICKLAND

Education/Experience:

  • BS Kinesiology
  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • NASM Mixed Martial Arts Strength and Conditioning Specialist
  • Active Brazilian Jiu Jitsu / Kickboxing/ Boxing Practitioner
  • CPR/AED Certified

Strengths/Specialties:

  • Beginners to Advanced
  • Strength and Muscle Gain
  • Weight loss/ Body Composition
  • Overall Health & Wellness
  • Beginner Kickboxing Instruction
  • MMA Strength and Conditioning

Fitness has always been a constant in my life; physically, aesthetically and psychologically.  In my youth, I was insecure and lacked confidence, ultimately creating a train wreck of a young man.  I was skinny as a kid and hid the mental torment of the insecurities I created.  I wanted to be bigger, I wanted to be more muscular.  Working out did something to me, it changed me.  I felt alive and strong. I felt confident and invincible.  I began training in mixed martial arts and went to every class they offered.  I trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, boxing, and Muay Thai. I got smashed everyday, and my weight/cardio training was not working. I felt too big and sluggish, and realized that more specific programming was necessary to achieve my goals. That’s when I began to learn how to design effective exercise programs for myself and others.

I’ve had to put on weight, build muscle, lean out, condition, lose weight, etc.   I’ve been around long enough to have been thrown off the wagon, get back on it, and fall off again.  I’m putting in all the work, and doing all the research, so you don’t have to.  I welcome an opportunity to coach you, sharing my knowledge and experience, so we can all live happy and healthy lives.  If not for us, for those who love us!

Johnnie at Ignite Fitness has been doing fantastic work with my teenage son in improving his fitness and confidence. The best feedback I get is my sons big smile after each class. Highly recommend. -Stuart M

I’ve been working with Johnnie for a few months now on a hypertrophy program and it’s been great- Ignite is a clean and friendly facility where everyone has their own station- you never have to wait for a machine to open up. I especially love hitting the water bag, really fun!  -Andrew O

Such an awesome place to workout and learn!  The whole facility is in excellent shape with great equipment, and it’s never crowded!  I’m sure all the trainers are great, but Johnnie has been awesome to work with. I highly recommend Ignite to anyone looking for great training. -Chris M

Jeancarlos (JC) Lezama, MS, CSCS

Education/Experience:

  • MS Exercise Science and Nutrition (Sacred Heart University)
  • BS Exercise Science (Appalachian State University)
  • NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
  • USAW Performance Coach Level 2
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach
  • CPR/First Aid Certified
  • CPR/AED/First Aid Certified
My fitness journey began as a young athlete preparing for lacrosse in college. After years of only running in high school, I had to get my body physically prepared for the new challenge. I fell in love with the process of improving little by little until I became one of the more athletic guys on the team, with the confidence I could keep up with people who had been playing for years.
I obtained my master’s degree in Exercise Science from Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, where I was responsible for the programming and training of Division I athletes in Men’s and Women’s Tennis, Men’s and Women’s Golf, Men’s and Women’s Fence, and Women’s Rowing.  I also assisted with Football, Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Women’s Basketball, Men’s and Women’s Hockey, and Track and Field. In addition to athletic performance training, I have spent years working one-on-one with clients of all ages and abilities, focusing on strength, mobility, weight loss, lifestyle changes, and overall better health.
Outside the gym, I enjoy spending time with my friends, taking my dog Boone out for long walks or hikes, traveling, listening to music while driving around, or eating some amazing food! I’m also a Marvel junky and video game connoisseur, so you get the best of all worlds!

 

You give me 100% effort and I’ll give you 110% of me!

CARA JO

Education/Experience:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • Nutritious Life Health & Nutrition Coach
  • CPR/AED certified

Strengths/Specialties

  • Beginners
  • Weight Loss/Nutrition Education
  • Strength Training
  • Powerlifting
  • Positive & Empowering Coaching

If you are thinking of getting into or getting back into fitness as an adult – you are a force to be reckoned with. I am a mom to four kids. After having #3 & #4 (twins), I was overwhelmed, didn’t feel like myself, and just felt – stuck. Growing up I was an avid soccer player all the way through college, but life had caught up with me. Thinking about fitness felt like a different lifetime. I remember starting again and trying different workout avenues, but I knew I wanted something more tailored to me, and I needed the support. I ended up searching out my own personal trainer and haven’t looked back since. I fell hard for the training process, the challenges, and seeing the wins along the way. Along with coaching others towards their own goals, I continue to compete in powerlifting.

I am passionate about helping people through their own fitness. Fitness should be personal, achievable, and enjoyable. Maybe you want that energy back, maybe its weight loss or muscle gain, maybe you dream of competing again in some way, maybe you feel stuck and aren’t sure where to begin. No matter your story, I am here to support you through it all.

Personal Training Rates

60-min session : $68

45-min session : $51

30-min session : $34

Initial Consultation : FREE

Couples/Partner training also available for $99/hr ($49.50 per person).

Currently Unavailable Trainers
Alexis Lech
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    Frank Lech
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      Ashley Mackey
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        Dylan Krauss
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          Personal Training Rates

          60-min session : $68

          45-min session : $51

          30-min session : $34

          Initial Consultation : FREE

          Couples/Partner training also available for $90/hr ($45 per person).

          Questions?

          If you have any questions we haven’t covered, contact us below or call us at 919-267-5143 and we’ll be happy to help.