client access

"Thank you so much, you guys are definitely doing something right! I love the gym... it is by far the best one I have ever joined."
Jennifer

"I am enjoying the gym so much. I have tried 3 gyms in my adult life and never went more than a handful of times....I am loving the zumba class, tatum's cardio class and the yoga wall. I like that Jenn knows my name when I check in. Thank you for creating a great atmosphere for me to get healthy!"
Nina

"Malisa is the least pretentious yoga instructor I've ever had! I feel so happy to attend her class. Not only is her physical instruction top notch, her instruction on the inner aspects of the practice is relatable and stays with me even when I am not in a class."
Trish Benford

"Thanks for all of your help! Everyone at Castle Hill has been wonderful so far and I'm very happy that I made the switch from Pure! You all make me feel very welcome and not like just part of the crowd."
Jill Welch

"This gym is not merely a place to workout like a gerbil in wheel. Castle Hill encourages you to make health and fitness a lifestyle."
Amy S

"I think you could successfully promote your environmentally conscious gym in advertising. It is so attractive to many Austinites to find a business with that commitment and very unique as well. Thanks for creating such a great space to work out in."
Laura Balla

"I love the gym, how it appeals to young and old and how clean it always feels.  I asked you a few weeks ago to fix the total body gym and was gratified about how quickly you responded."
Jan Dailey

"Your gym is the best! And I am proud of your commitments to your love for health, life and the environment."
Katherine Butler

"I am one of the first clients of Castle Hill and it is truly my home away from home as well.  I can honestly say that I am in better shape and health since faithfully going to this gym.  This well-being makes me a better person toward everyone."
Janet Sullivan

"Fitness is indeed more than lifting weights for body strength - Castle Hill demonstrates this!"
Rich Armington

"As I often tell my children "you have to be different to make a difference"! Castle Hill is different."
Julie Horvath

"I love the little community you've created at Castle Hill... thanks for all your work!"
Lesley Ramsey

"Castle Hill Fitness is an exceptional place.  Thanks for providing such a first class facility and group of people."
Randy Rice

"I don't know that I have ever been associated with a better managed facility. Your very happy client,"
John Mobley

"Thanks for caring about the environment.  I have been very happy at the Castle."
Penny Hobbs

"I'm happy and proud to be part of such an awesome community.  Castle Hill rules!"
Selena Pang

"I'm very proud of you and proud to be a member of Castle Hill!"
Toni Thomasson

"I love your Planet Castle Hill. It has made a huge impact on the health and well-being of both my daughter and me. Keep up the amazing work and spirit!"
Barbara Laing

"I love Castle Hill and the people in it - thanks for all that you do for us!"
Amy Roberts

"I had no idea that the most favorite gym that I've ever used in my life, the one that finally turned around my contempt of exercise by actually making it fun and unintimidating, also was run with the same concern and thoughtfulness for the future of the planet and its inhabitants that I feel.  "
Heather Page

"Castle Hill has totally changed my lifestyle. The teachers are unparalleled. Now I exercise every day and I feel completely different. I hate to miss a day!"
Janis Hydak

"Castle Hill is different from other gyms because of the cool laid back atmosphere and it's not a meat market. What keep me coming back are the instructors. Great gym: clean, cool and just my style."
Melody Thames

"Castle Hill is the most welcoming gym I have ever been a member of. People who work there and who attend are warm and friendly, and focused on fitness and health."
Jenn Lindberg

"Everyone treats me with respect and near admiration for showing up consistently. I have made quite a few new friends."
Steve Jung

"I have had more personal attention from your staff in one month than I did in a year and a half at my old gym."
Joe Wojtowicz

"I must tell you that I have belonged to many gyms and I am in love with working out at Castle Hill… I am 6 pounds lighter today… I feel so much better."
Aimee Deputy

"All three instructors I have taken yoga with have been much better than average: articulate, knowledgeable and attentive to their pupils."
Byron Thomas

"I am truly inspired by your staff and the commitment they have to your patrons and members"
Angie Houtz

"Know that I recognize and deeply value the loving contribution of artistic form + imaginative function = Castle Hill Fitness"
Dianne Graham

"It is almost a family environment, very personal. This is the first time I really stick to a program simply because I truly enjoy the hour I spend at Castle Hill every day."
Peter Burner

"The Castle never lets me down!!! This month is my 3 year anniversary!! I could not ask for a better gym or a more delightful group of dedicated athletes to staff it."
Anna Krachey

Winner Readers' Choice: Best Gym
Winner Readers' Choice: Best Gym 2008, 2009, & 2010 by
2008
2009
& 2010
Our master trainers are seasoned professionals with over 15 years of experience.
More info...

Master Personal Trainers


Alon Kay
X

Alon Kay
Years in the Business: 20

Certifications: ACSM

Specialties/Focus in Training: Special Needs, All humans that want to get stronger, golfers
Highlights/Accomplishments: 1995 Vogues Top 50 trainers in America

Favorites: Golf
  Cassandra Henkiel
Cassandra Henkiel
X

Cassandra Henkiel
Years in the Business: 15

Certifications: ACE certified since May 1994 & working in the fitness industry since college (1988-1992)

Specialties/Focus in Training: General Population: men/women, all ages, fitness levels. Specialized in aerobic/endurance sports/running/strength training
Highlights/Accomplishments: Elite distance Runner (state, national, and international competition); Running Coach (high school, college, and community levels); June '06: qualified for the 2008 Olympic Trials for Marathon Event

Favorites: Food: Noodles and Veggies; Exercise: Outdoor Activities; Interests: Travel and quality time with friends; Sports: HUGE sports fan of it all!
 
Celeste Hamman
X

Celeste Hamman
Years in the Business: 20+

Certifications: ACE certified since 1987, IDEA Elite Trainer

Specialties/Focus in Training: Beginners, over 40 or over 70
Highlights/Accomplishments: Life Coach since 1997, triathlete

Favorites: Color: Purple; Food: Chocolate

Personal Trainers

Alex Dotte
Alex Dotte
X

Alex Dotte
Years in the Business: 2.5

Certifications: ACSM Certified Personal Trainer since 2008; BA Computer Science/Philosophy UT-Austin 2006

Specialties/Focus in Training: Free weights, balance, strength-endurance, calisthenics, nutrition, working with individuals of all levels
Highlights/Accomplishments: Introduced to weight training by grandfather Warren Tetting (of Thor Strength Equipment) at age 15; competed in powerlifting in high school; currently practicing yoga, Pilates and Olympic-style weightlifting with multiple teachers

Favorites: Hiking, biking, cooking, working on my house & car, programming, spending time with friends & family
Amid Archibald
Amid Archibald
X

Amid Archibald
Years in the Business: 19 years Taekwondo, 2 years Personal Training

Certifications: ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer; 4th Dan Black Belt World Taekwondo Federation; 1st Dan Black Belt Hap Ki Do (self-defense)

Specialties/Focus in Training: I can train individuals of all levels, Athletes, sport-specific conditioning, strength and conditioning training, martial arts training, basic plyometrics training
Highlights/Accomplishments: Master Instructor Taekwondo, '05 Assistant Coach Texas A&M University Collegiate @ UC Berkley; '05 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame Instructor of the Year

Favorites: BMX riding, eating good food, nature, custom cars, music and keepin' it chill

Cory Laurel
X

Cory Laurel
Years in the Business: Personal training: 4
Swim coaching: 12

Certifications: BA Biology UT Austin 1993, ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer, ISSA Specialist in Performance Nutrition, Certified Eating Coach

Specialties/Focus in Training: Men and women all ages. Specialize in injury rehabilitation, sports specific training, strength conditioning and nutritional counseling.
Highlights/Accomplishments: Cory was a competitive swimmer for 14 years and has coached swimming Masters Swimming for 2 years. Cory quit her corporate job as a research chemist to focus on her own rehab and health after suffering a labral tear in her hip and having hip surgery in 2005. This injury changed the way she trains herself and how she approaches her clients' training as well.

Favorites: Poodles and blue jeans.

Ellis Montet
X

Ellis Montet
Years in the Business: 10 yrs as a collegiate level strength & conditioning coach. 20+ years of training professional & non-professional athletes

Certifications: Cooper Certified Personal Trainer
Power Plate Certified

Specialties/Focus in Training: I have a firm belief that motivation comes from finding a workout style/protocol that is fun, effective and unique to you. My toolbox includes: Medicine Ball, Kettle Bell, Swiss Ball ( inflatable balls ) for balance and core, Sledge Hammer for Everyday Strength, Restorative Strength Works, Power Plate and a sensitive and effective approach to chronic and recent injuries.
Highlights/Accomplishments: Collegiate level coaching experiences and helping everyday people reach their health and fitness goals.

Favorites: Colors: Orange and Light Blue; Dogs: Working dogs are a favorite, watching a dog totally immersed into his job and enjoying it. Socializing with friends and people and hearing unique perspectives on life. Functional Exercise is the BOMB. Healthy people RULE. An open mind ROCKS. A helping hand LOVES.

George Centeno
X

George Centeno
Years in the Business: 11

Certifications: I.S.S.A.

Specialties/Focus in Training: Beginners to collegiate and professional athletes. Strength Conditioning.
Highlights/Accomplishments: George has been passionate about health and fitness for much of his life. He has a successful history of competitive Body Building, Weight Lifting, Strength Training and Power Lifting. George is known for his functional and focused style of training and has experience with injuries. He is absolutely committed to assisting his clients achieve their health & fitness goals.

Favorites: Cooking, Food, Riding my Bike, Movies and More!

Hilary Handley
X

Hilary Handley
Years in the Business: Running Coach, 5; Personal Training, 2

Certifications: ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer, USA Track and Field Certified Coach, CPR Certified

Specialties/Focus in Training: Runners, all athletes, or sports specific workouts, endurance training, strength training. Love working with new and longtime athletes.
Highlights/Accomplishments: Qualifying and placing in nationals all four years in college. Going from sprinter to running/qualifying for Boston Marathon

Favorites: Sport: Running, Swimming, Mountain Biking, Beach Volleyball, Live Music, my dog, Bigsby!

Jerry Gerlich
X

Jerry Gerlich
Years in the Business: 6+

Certifications: BS in Kinesiology UT Austin, American Council on Exercise (ACE), Power Plate Certified through Power Plate USA

Specialties/Focus in Training: I do well with Baby Boomers looking to stay or become active. I also do the Lion's share of Bike Fits and Cycling testing. Also help clients gain flexibility via Power Plate and assisted stretching
Highlights/Accomplishments: I've been cycling for 23 years and working at bike shops for 21 years. I graduated from UT after a 12 year career as a professional drummer. I raced mountain bikes for 6 years on the West coast. I completed the Sally Edwards "Heart Zones" Blue Jersey level heart rate monitor training seminar.

Favorites: Color: Color: Green; Sport: Cycling (Road and ATB); Food: anything Italian; Exercise: Cycling with Yoga as a close second; Movie: Napoleon Dynamite; TV Show: American's Funniest Home Videos. Number: 8; Beverage: Coffee; Game: Anything I can play with my two boys, Charles and Jackson; Best friend: My wife, Kelly

Minna Miller
X

Minna Miller
Years in the Business: 7

Certifications: National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF-CPT). MS Occupational Safety and Health, Murray State University, KY (Focus on biomechanics and ergonomics)

Specialties/Focus in Training: Biomechanics, Long term fitness and wellness, Injury prevention. Kickboxing, rock climbing and body composition improvement. Custom designing a fitness program for the individual, Develop training plans (triathlon, running, weight training), Analysis of running gait, Performance improvement, Core and Functional training.
Highlights/Accomplishments: 1st at 2009 Central TX Regional Cup W4 Bicycle Road Racing (8 events), Aerial Silks (acrobatics) performer, placing in top 3 in numerous local outdoor rock climbing competitions from 2002 to present. - Minna has experience in triathlons, running (5k to marathon), winter sports (nordic skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, downhill skiing), equation, swimming, kayaking, wakeboarding, rollerblading, and more!

Favorites: Making life fun, new challenges, mind and body connection. Hobbies: Aerial silks, road cycling and racing, mountainbiking, rock climbing, chess, reading, tennis, golf.

Rob Smith
X

Rob Smith
Years in the Business: 2

Certifications: A.C.E. Certified PT, currently in process for C.S.C.S.

Specialties/Focus in Training: I love to train athletes, especially basketball players, but I want to bring functional movements to all people in order to help them in the game of life!
Highlights/Accomplishments: Getting my degree from UT in Kinesiology, marrying my wife Rachel and getting to be an older brother

Favorites: I love basketball, football, wakeboarding, and golf. I love Mexican food and being at the lake listening to country music. I love growing in the Lord and meeting new people!

Robert Reed
X

Robert Reed
Years in the Business: 13

Certifications: ACE certified personal trainer, 5th generation third degree black belt in Kajukenbo self defense system, first degree black belt in American Kenpo.
Completed two strength and conditioning internships – one with UT Austin and one with the New Orleans Saints

Specialties/Focus in Training: General and sports specific conditioning. Martial arts training and conditioning
Highlights/Accomplishments: Four year letterman and three year starter for the UT Longhorns. Voted several time AP player of the week and finished his career as a CFA all american. Was ranked as the 7th best linebacker in the nation by draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. Had professional playing stops in Philidelphia with the Eagles and in the CFL with the Hamilton Tigercats.

Favorites: Black is my favorite color. It's so regal. I could watch baseball from sun up to sun down. Married a former runway model (aren't I lucky). I'm a Phi Beta Sigma man. If I won the lottery I'd move next door to my aunt in a blink of an eye. Baton Rouge is truely home.

Tara Penawell
X

Tara Penawell
Years in the Business: 5

Certifications: NSCA - Certified Personal Trainer, Masters in Kinesiology from UT Austin, Certified Eating Coach

Specialties/Focus in Training: I like to work with everyone, but I like older adults, beginners and people trying to make a lifestyle change the most
Highlights/Accomplishments: Splash Sprint Triathlon '05, Helping one of my clients lose 45 pounds last year!

Favorites: Color: Blue, Exercise: Lunges of any kind; TV Show: Lost or Smallville; Sport: Baseball

Tatum Rebelle
X

Tatum Rebelle
Years in the Business: 9

Certifications: BS in Communication and Kinesiology from TCU

Personal Training; Pre- and Postnatal Fitness - ACE

Moms and Kids in Motion - SWA Fitness Education

Biomechanics of Resistance Training - Cooper Institute Dallas, TX

Complete Personal Training Certification - APEX Fitness Group

Counseling for Health and Fitness; Maternal and Infant Nutrition - Nutrition Dimension

Specialties/Focus in Training: Pre- and post-natal fitness, Incorporating children into exercise, Functional training, Eating assessments, Grocery shopping educational trips
Highlights/Accomplishments: Served as a Drill Sgt in the Army, receiving many awards in physical fitness. Featured Fit Pregnancy magazine, and chosen as one of "Austin's Fittest" by Austin Fit magazine. Actively involved with the Mayor's Fitness Council.

Favorites: Mountain biking, hiking, kayaking or jogging at Lady Bird Lake with my pups

Tom Krausz
X

Tom Krausz
Years in the Business: 8

Certifications: ACE, ISSA (PT), ISSA (SPT)

Specialties/Focus in Training: Everyone - as a qualified trainer I can train everyone.
Highlights/Accomplishments: Ran 3M 1/2 Marathon (twice), Motorola Marathon (once), Pikes Peak (once), Army Marine Corp Triathlon (once), Fairtex Muay Thai Instructor featured on ESPN2 Strikeforce

Favorites: Color: Black; Movie: Rockie
Back to top
Castle Hill Fitness 1112 N. Lamar Blvd, Suite B Austin TX 78703 tel: 512-478-4567
Follow Castle Hill:
Follow CHFitness on Twitter