Cherina Gourley

Cherina Gourley has been teaching at Niagara College since 2015. She graduated Brock University with a Bachelor’s in Physical Education (Honors). She also earned a diploma in the post graduate program at Niagara College in Exercise Science for Health and Performance. She has taught into courses such as anatomy, resistance training and physical education.

Cherina’s qualifications include:

• Canadian Society for Exercises Physiology – Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CSEP-CEP)
• CSEP High Performance Specialist
• Fitness Test for Ontario Correctional Officer Applicants Appraiser (FITCO)
• Ontario Police Fitness Appraiser (OPFA)
• Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid and CPR C

Austin Benevides

Austin is a CSEP-Certified Personal Trainer and graduate of Niagara College’s Fitness & Health Promotion program dedicated to helping clients reach their fitness goals, whether that’s building muscle, losing fat, or simply getting stronger for daily life. His experience spans working with everyone from bodybuilders and pro athletes to individuals with Parkinson’s disease. He believes in tailored, results-driven training that helps people of all ages feel better, move better, and age gracefully.

Austin’s Certifications include:

• (CSEP) Certified Personal Trainer, Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
• Standard First Aid and CPR C

Michael Varden

Michael is a CSEP-Certified Personal Trainer and graduate of Niagara College’s Fitness & Health Promotion Program. He is always looking for ways big and small to improve the health of his community and those he can help individually. He has hands-on experience working with elderly and those with chronic conditions, as well as general population.

Michael’s qualifications include:

• (CSEP) Certified Personal Trainer, Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
• Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid and BLS

Briar Krieger

Briar Krieger has 34 years experience in the fitness and wellness industry. As a former gym owner and creator of a global nutritional program called the 8 Week Challenge, she has gained invaluable insights that shape her approach as a certified personal trainer and Nutrition coach.

Running a gym and creating the 8 Week Challenge has taught her the importance of creating a supportive and motivating environment for clients. She is committed to creating a community- centered approach around health and wellness, working closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds and fitness levels.

Briar’s qualifications include:

• Personal Trainer Specialist (CanFit Pro)
• Healthy Eating and Nutrition Coach (CanFit Pro)
• Fitness Instructor Specialist (CanFit Pro)

Teddy Mansell

Teddy has been working in the fields of exercise science, physiotherapy, and strength and conditioning for over seven years. He graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (Honours) and later completed a Master of Science in Kinesiology. He later earned a post graduate certificate in Exercise Science for Health and Performance at Niagara College, achieving Dean’s List recognition. His professional experience spans physiotherapy, athletic development, and specialized clinical populations, supported by his background as a national level athlete representing Team Canada/Ontario in American football. He is currently completing his final year of the MSc Physiotherapy program at the University of Worcester in the United Kingdom.

Teddy’s qualifications include:

• MSc Kinesiology – Brock University
• Post Graduate Certificate in Exercise Science for Health & Performance – Niagara College (Dean’s List)
• Physiotherapist – Pending licence approval
• Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology – Registered Exercise Physiologist (CSEP CEP)
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• Certified Personal Therapy Aide
• Extensive clinical and performance experience across physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and special populations