Health and fitness beyond the scale

Real experience. Sustainable results. Strength built for life.

Join my Facebook group
Hire me for an event
A woman with tattoos on her arm and wearing a black tank top with the words "LIFE TIME" is in a gym, kneeling on one knee and smiling at the camera. She has dark hair, a headset microphone, and is wearing white athletic shoes. The gym has a wooden floor, exercise bikes in the background, and a clock on the wall.

My approach to health and fitness is rooted in lived experience, not perfection. After losing more than 160 pounds and rebuilding my life through strength training, mindset work, and sustainable habits, I understand firsthand that transformation is about more than weight — it’s about confidence, resilience, and learning to trust yourself again.

As a coach, personal trainer, and speaker, I help people move away from extreme dieting and quick fixes and toward lasting health. Whether you are beginning your fitness journey, navigating life after weight loss surgery or medications, or working to regain consistency and confidence, my goal is to help you build strength, improve overall wellness, and create habits that support you for the long term.

Health is not about punishment. Fitness is not about shrinking yourself.
It’s about becoming stronger — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

What my fitness students are saying

  • "I have known Yelena for a few years through her Zumba class. I find her to be very inspiring & encouraging. During the pandemic, she was the first instructor to go virtual to keep everyone motivated. She encourages you to be the best version of yourself."

    Kelly H.

  • "I love Yelena's ARORA Aqua classes! She demonstrates clearly and makes working out so much fun!"

    Camilla P.

  • "I participate in the Aqua Zumba class that Yelena is the instructor. She is energetic and fun. The music she uses gets us moving. I have been taking an aqua aerobics class since 1996 and Yelena is the best instructor i have ever had. "

    Ann S.

  • "I love my Arora Aqua class with Yelena! I appreciate all that she teaches and motivates us to do. She provides an easy stretch to get us going and then challenges us to move and to keep moving. She also demonstrates alternative positions and movements for individual strength and capabilities. I look forward to each class."

    Jody W.