Fitness Education and Training
Founded in 1979 by Dr. Patti Mantia, The Fitness Firm provides fitness education programs for fitness professionals and training for enthusiasts who want to work in fitness. Our list of programs includes Personal Fitness Trainer Certification Preparation, Group Exercise Leader Certification Preparation, Physical Therapy Ball Training, Pilates Style Mat Training, Yoga Training, Weighted Workouts and more! Our programs provide continuing education units for those already certified in health and fitness. The Professional Fitness Network was founded by Patti Mantia in 2002. The “Pro-Fit Network” provides personalized fitness training for individuals who are ready to take charge of their health and wellness. Please refer to our mission statement. Our Team
Patti Mantia, Ed.D. The Fitness Firm is directed by Dr. Patti Mantia. Patti shares 30 years experience with the fitness industry as an instructor, trainer, author, and fitness educator. She is known throughout the world for her tireless energy and dedication to fitness professionals. In addition to her work at The Fitness Firm, Patti serves as Department Chair and Professor of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition at Holyoke Community College. Patti represents the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) as a Master Certification Specialist and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) as a media spokeswoman. She is a co-author of two textbooks published with AFAA - “Fitness Theory and Practice” and authored the "AFAA Step Training Program" and "Scientific Principles of Training for Strength". Dr. Mantia worked for nearly twenty years in fitness management and as a leader and “trainer of the trainers” at the Massachusetts State Firefighting Academy. Patti’s certifications include AFAA Personal Fitness Trainer, AFAA Group Exercise Leader, AFAA Step Trainer, ACE Personal Fitness Trainer, ACE Group Exercise Leader, NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) Personal Fitness Trainer, NSCA Strength and Conditioning Specialist, ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) Health Fitness Instructor, ACSM Certified Personal Fitness Trainer, The American Heart Association BLS/CPR Instructor, National Safety Council CPR/BLS Instructor, and The American Academy of Emergency Physicians CPR/BLS Instructor. Patti has a BS in Exercise Science, an EdM in Human Movement, and a Doctoral Degree in Human Movement from Boston University. Allison Mantia, B.S. Allison joined The Fitness Firm as a fitness educator at The Fitness Firm in 2004. Allison shares 10 years of experience in fitness as a fitness facility manager, personal trainer, group exercise leader, and educator. She is continually recognized for her passion about fitness. Allison travels extensively representing AFAA as a Certification Specialist in Personal Fitness Training. Allison is certified by AFAA as a Personal Fitness Trainer and holds additional certifications in group exercise and basic lifesaving skills. Allison has a B.S. in Exercise Science from Bridgewater State College and is currently a graduate student in Health Promotion. Cindy Senk, M.A. Cindy Senk joined The Fitness Firm in 2006 as a workshop provider in the area of yoga, pilates-based mat training. Cindy holds a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation. Currently employed as the Wellness Director of Friendly’s Ice Cream Corporate headquarters, Cindy also works as an Adjunct Professor of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition at Holyoke Community College. Cindy also represents AFAA as a Certification Specialist for Personal Fitness Training, Group Exercise, Yoga, Mat, and Women’s Fitness. Cindy also works for the Arthritis Foundation providing education and fitness programs. Cindy is known throughout the region for her endless energy and enthusiastic spirit. Additional Instructors The Fitness Firm is proud to include additional instructors on the faculty list: Kathleen Laquale, Ph.D. – Nutrition Jana Faiky, B.S. – Personal Training
Elena DeGirolamo, B.S. – Group Exercise
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A Word from the Director I have had the good fortune of a long and rewarding career in fitness. I have traveled the globe sharing my knowledge and skills with exercise processionals of the present and future. I have drawn the energy to do this work from you -- enthusiastic, dedicated people who believe in fitness and the life altering benefits that can be obtained. Thank you. We are advancing to a new era in fitness. Certification has become commonplace. Licensed and degreed professionals are becoming expectations rather than ideals. You can have a place in this dynamic field. Allow your relentless enthusiasm and dedication to fitness lead you to even greater accomplishments. Advancement requires hard work, education, and practice; but it is a most worthwhile endeavor. Continue your education. Learn what the scientific community has to offer as we expand the fienld and become practicing members of the allied health profession. As Director of The Fitness Firm, I will continue to focus my efforts providing quality training and education programs. I believe that education is power. Your ability to think critically about fitness advances the industry as a whole. This is why I allow my students to re-sit any course for FREE for up to one year. I want you to learn all you can. I am proud to have the opportunity to send forth knowledgeable and skilled leader in fitness. Thank you for allowing The Fitness Firm to participate in your growth.
Dear Fitness Professional,
Most Sincerely,
Patti Mantia, Ed.D.
Director of Education and Training