meet our staff!
At the Lake Forest Fitness Center, our team is the heart of everything we do. From expert trainers to friendly front desk staff, each person is here to support your health and wellness journey. We are passionate about creating a welcoming, energizing, and encouraging environment for every member. Whether you are just getting started or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, we are here to help. 
Get to know the dedicated individuals who make our Fitness Center a great place to work out and connect!
Jim Thiel - Fitness Center Manager   Jim Thiel
Fitness Center Manager
(847) 810-3918
Danielle Knighton - Group Exercise Coordinator Danielle Knighton
Group Exercise Coordinator
(847) 810-3935
Roseann Giangiorgi - Membership Coordinator Roseann Giangiorgi
Membership Coordinator
(847) 810-3937
Personal Trainers

Cate Demet

CATE DEMET
Personal Trainer

Education:

  • Master’s Degree from Dominican University (River Forest, IL)
  • Bachelor’s Degree from Louisiana State University – Volleyball Scholarship, SEC Champions 1986 and 1988
  • Graduate of Stevenson High School – Three-sport varsity athlete (volleyball, basketball, track), All-State Volleyball, High Jump record holder (5'4")

Past Experience:

  • Completed 10 Chicago Marathons
  • Competed in 150 triathlons
  • Ranked 17th nationally as an elite stair climber

Certifications:

  • National Council on Strength & Fitness (NCSF) – Specializing in youth, prenatal, senior, military, and sport-specific training
  • CPR/AED Certified
  • Certified Madd Dogg Spin Instructor

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CORBIN CORNELISON

Personal Trainer & Performance Coach

Education:

  • BS in Organizational Leadership (University of Charleston, WV)

Past Experience:

  • Retired military 22 years in special operations
  • Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Master Training Specialist (MTS)
  • Hand selected by NSW to manage Warrior Toughness, the US Navy's mental toughness program

Certifications:

  • NCSF - National Council on Strength & Fitness Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
  • NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
  • NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
  • NCSF Suspension Trainer Specialist Certification
  • CPR/AED Certified

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ESTHER GUTIERREZ-SLOAN

Personal Trainer & Group Exercise Instructor

Recognition:

  • Inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2010 as the pioneer of Latin rhythm and dance in the aerobic industry
  • Awarded the 2010 Keeper of the Flame Award by the Chicago International Salsa Congress
  • Featured in the 2011 AETNA Insurance commemorative Latino calendar "Dancing to be Healthy"
  • Featured in over 50 newspaper and magazine articles

Past Experience:

  • Creator of SALSArobics® and founder of SALSArobics, Inc.
  • Presented at national and international fitness conventions
  • Starred in four fitness videos
  • Creator of the "Fit to be Me" with SALSArobics program for the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana

Certifications:

  • Total Body Training Systems by Robert Gadja, RKT
  • CPR American Heart Association
  • American Council on Exercise

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JIM RISI
Personal Trainer

Education:

  • BA in Physical Education

Past Experience:

  • Over 30 years in experience with Personal Training
  • Coach of Youth Traveling Baseball, Youth Fitness and Training, and Baseball Clinics throughout Lake County
  • Experience with all populations

Certifications:

  • ACE Personal Trainer
  • NFPT Personal Trainer
  • CPR American Heart Association
group exercise instructors

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Kim Lyszczarczyk

I’ve loved fitness for as long as I can remember—from basement Tae Bo sessions to high-energy step classes. That “off the chain” feeling when music and movement sync (as Pitbull would say!) is what drives me. In 2009, I became a licensed Zumba instructor, and it was the best decision I’ve made. Since then, my passion for helping others enjoy fitness has grown, leading me to certifications in Strong Nation, Barre, RIP, Hatha Yoga, Piloxing, and as an ACSM CPT. I’m currently working toward a 500-hour comprehensive Pilates certification.

I love creating classes that are mentally, physically, and emotionally energizing, because I know how important that hour is in your day. My goal is simple: help you leave feeling stronger, happier, and recharged. Outside the studio, I’m a proud mom to Anthony (10) and Izzy (5). When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me baking, crafting, serving as PTA Treasurer, or zipping around town in my bright orange Dodge Charger—true Energizer Bunny style!

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Erin Vine 

Erin is a dedicated yoga instructor with a lifelong passion for movement and wellness. Before discovering yoga, she practiced Pilates and has always maintained an active lifestyle, building a strong foundation in body awareness and strength. After more than a decade of personal yoga practice, she completed her 200-hour yoga teacher training and transitioned into teaching.

Erin’s approach is grounded in the belief that yoga is more than just physical exercise—it is a pathway to inner peace and lasting happiness. Drawing from her diverse movement background and years of experience, she creates thoughtful, balanced classes that support both the body and mind, helping students feel more connected, centered, and at ease in their everyday lives.

She resides in Highland Park with her husband, their two daughters, and two doodles, and brings the same warmth and grounded energy from her home life into her teaching.