OUR TEAM

At BarreCoast, we pride ourselves on having a team of fitness instructors who go above and beyond in their commitment to our people. These extraordinary individuals bring not only their expertise and passion for fitness, but also a genuine care and support for each and every person who walks through our doors. Our dedicated team is more than just instructors; they are leaders who inspire, motivate, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered on their fitness journey. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, our team is here to guide you, cheer you on, and help you reach your wellness goals. With their unwavering commitment and attention to form alignment and safety, our fitness instructors at barrecoast are the epitome of what it means to be a caring, attentive and supportive team.

kristen ullrich, owner

Kristen Ullrich is a graduate of Boston College as well as the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.  After spending 20 years in the corporate world she decided to follow her passion for fitness and health and in January 2014 opened Southern Rhode Island's first Barre studio and athletic apparel boutique - BarreCoast.  

In November 2014 Kristen expanded BarreCoast ‘s offerings, opening a second studio room dedicated exclusively to yoga  In September 2015 she took the retail business online, in July of 2016 added TRX. and In July of 2018 launched BoxCoast - a third studio room dedicated to boxing/HIIT and personal training.

Kristen is Barre certified through the YogaWorks BarWorks program and has since worked to develop BarreCoast's own specific barre certification. Kristen began practicing yoga in 1998 while living in California. She received her asthanga yoga teaching certification with David Swenson in 2001 and graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in 2004. She completed her 200 hour power yoga certification through North East Power Yoga in 2012, her boxing training with EveryBody fights in 2018, Yoga Anatomy with Leslie Kaminoff in 2020. and most recently Injury Prevention in 2021 and her 300 hour advanced yoga training with Jason Crandell in 2022.

Kristen teaches barre, boxing, yoga, HIIT and TRX and also offers private group and personal training. You'll find Kristen's classes to be motivating and challenging yet welcoming for all fitness levels.


"Opening a fitness studio is not just about building a business; it’s about creating a community where transformations unfold, and lives are changed. Witnessing individuals push their limits, conquer their fears, and discover the power within themselves—it's an indescribable feeling that fuels the soul and ignites a passion like no other. I am so grateful for barrecoast and the community we have created to inspire, motivate each other, and make a difference, one class at a time.”

KRISTEN


Leanne Tria, Barrecost instructor

  • BARRE - BOXING - HIIT - TRX

    Leanne is trained in Stott Pilates Method and has been teaching Pilates for 6 years at Luxe Fitness in Westerly. Leanne started teaching a small group at John Ward Physical Therapy in Charlestown, RI in 2009 and many students from that group are still practicing with her to this day.

    Leanne also holds a certification as a PIYO instructor which incorporates a Pilates and Yoga mix and enjoys attending trainings to add to her repertoire. Barre is a mix of all of Leanne’s favorite forms of exercise combined into one intense, amazing workout.

  • YOGA

    Shanna grew up in the world of gymnastics and competitive cheerleading. Going off to college, she looked for a new fitness outlet. Starting with long distance running, and completing a handful of half marathons she soon pivoted to weight lifting. With lifting weights, she quickly realized she had lost touch with her body and the muscle mind connection she so relied on during her gymnastics days.

    Searching for a way to bridge the gap, a friend encouraged her to attend a yoga class with her. From there, Shanna started attending yoga classes regularly and she quickly saw how beneficial a yoga practice was on and off the mat. Wanting to better her practice with knowledge, she dove into her 200h Wild Wisdom teacher training.

    Off the mat, Shanna loves to garden, read, and most of all spend time with her dogs, cats, goats and chickens.

Hillari Degiacomo

  • BARRE - TRX

    Hillari is a certified Barre Fitness instructor through the BarWorks teacher training program. She is also a Spin instructor certified through Madd Dog Athletics and teaches at Luxe Fitness Clubs in Westerly.

    Born and raised right in Westerly, Hillari has been highly involved in fitness for most of her life. Hillari also brings with her 16 years of experience in tap, jazz and ballet.

    When she is not at the gym, or instructing classes, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughter and dog, Zeus!

krystal rose
  • YOGA

    Krystal teaches energetic and lighthearted vinyasa flow classes, inspired by Shiva Rea’s Prana Flow® Yoga. Each time you take her class, you will experience a different flow, based on a peak pose or sequence. Her classes are accessible to all students and are carefully crafted to help students move through each krama (stage) of a pose to arrive safely in a peak asana.

    Krystal completed her 500-hr Prana Flow® Yoga Teacher Training with Senior Teacher Coral Brown and Debbie Valois in 2014. Her 200 hour certification is through Sid McNairy of Lifeline Power Yoga (now Nahi Wellness).

    Krystal works at Mystic Seaport Museum, where she has had various roles in collections and education since 2007. She has an undergraduate degree in history and an MA in Historic Preservation.

    She lives with her husband and two sons in Pawcatuck, CT.

Heather Frost
  • BARRE - YOGA

    Heather is an RYT 200 yoga instructor through North East Power Yoga and trained in the BarreCoast barre method.

    When not in the studio Heather enjoys walks on the beach with her dog Lucy and spending time with her husband Rob and children Sterling and Skylar.

    Heather has personally experienced many positive changes to body, mind and spirit through her yoga and barre practice. She is an energetic and motivating teacher who looks forward to sharing her passion!

Jenny Brown
  • BARRE

    Jenny received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Rhode Island and became BarreCoast certified in 2014. Jenny works in the corporate world and finds working out helps to keep her balanced. She has had a love of fitness her entire adult life; yoga, running, spinning, weight lifting... and is always up to trying something new!
    Two things Jenny loves are music and fitness making barre a perfect fit! When not working Jenny enjoys spending time with her husband, two boys, family and friends.

Dori Carpenter

  • BARRE - BOXING - HIIT - TRX

    Dori is certified in Barre Fitness through the BarreCoast training program led by Jocelyn Kay-Levy. Dori began teaching group fitness classes at Providence College in 2005 and is certified through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. She is certified as a personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise and certified as a spin instructor through Madd Dog Athletics.

    She is also a personal trainer and teaches spin and Group X classes at Luxe Fitness. In her spare time enjoys spending time with her dog, jogging, and relaxing on the beach. Dori has enjoyed watching BarreCoast grow since its opening and is excited to be a part of such a welcoming exercise community!

Christina Gencarella
  • BARRE - BOXING - HIIT - TRX

    Born and raised in North Stonington, CT and “venturing “to Rhode Island for college to study Communications with a concentration in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a minor in Psychology, New England has always had Christina’s heart and you won’t find her too far from her home base. In addition to New England, Christina has a love for all things movement. She can be found leading barre (classic and cardio), TRX, Boxing, and HIIT classes, as well as settled behind the desk managing the BarreCoast floor where she’s been since the studio opened in 2014. She also has a great passion for learning and is a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Pre/Postnatal Performance Training Specialist.

    In Christina’s classes, you will find energy and precision. She knows that group fitness can be intimidating; you want to feel like you belong in the workout you’re attending. While she is known for her intensity, Christina tailors every class to all levels, providing multiple variations of exercises to match your fitness level at that exact moment. You may never come across her wearing matching socks, but Christina’s disorganization ends there, making sure all classes are well formulated and thought out. She welcomes you into her space with open arms and can’t wait to share in some empowerment and sweat!

    When not working, Christina can usually be spotted with daughter, Rowan, and golden retriever, Reece, at her side or in the kitchen whipping up something yummy to share with family and friends.

Kimberly Palmer
  • BARRE + TRX + BOXING

    Kimberly received her Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in Dance and Graphic Design. She became BarreCoast certified in 2016 and is pumped to be a part of such an kind, fun and positive community of. In her classes, you can expect to get your sweat on with a side of comedy and rockin' playlists to keep you going. No two classes are the same and she makes sure you get the most you can out of the time you are at the studio.

    When she's not at the studio or working on our graphics she is spending time painting, biking or hanging by the ocean with her husband and three kids.

    FOLLOW

Anja Mertl
  • YOGA + BARRE + TRX + BOXING + HIIT

    In September 2016, Anja received her Bachelor’s Degree in Media Communication at the University of Wuerzburg in Germany. In the same year, she moved to the United States and a few months after to Rhode Island where she began working out at BarreCoast on a regular basis. She fell in love with Yoga, Barre, and TRX coming to class 5-6 times per week.

    When she was in Germany, Anja was dancing in different groups, practicing ballet for 10 years which made her fall in love with any form of dance and exercise because “dancers are true athletes”!

    Anja believes in the mind-body connection and that a healthy body creates a healthy mind.

    She is excited to bring her holistic approach to all of her fitness classes!

Cortney Capizzano
  • BOXING + HIIT + YOGA

    Cortney was born and raised in Westerly Rhode Island graduating from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in economics. She found her true passion in teaching yoga and was certified at Down Dog Yoga in Washington DC. She believes that yoga is much more then a "good stretch" but a lifestyle change. Self discipline, self study and devotion are yoga in the form of action.

    Cortney was also trained at BarreCoast by Everybody fights. She believes the perfect compliment to a great yoga practice is learning to control your breathing through boxing and High intensity training.

    When she is not teaching yoga or boxing you can find her spending time with close family, friends, her fiancé and of course her two fur babies Benny and Tedy.

AMANDA CHADWICK
  • BOXING + YOGA

    Amanda has developed her expertise in working with a diverse clientele starting with Miami in 2008, moving to NYC in 2009 and California in 2014. She is now establishing roots in Westerly, RI with her family.

    Amanda has a BA in Psychology and has continued her education achieving a 500hr Yoga training from Soul of Yoga in San Diego. She is an RYT E-500 Yoga instructor, a Certified Personal Trainer, and Corrective Exercise specialist through NASM dedicating her work to exercise programming for individuals with chronic pain or structural limitation.

    Amanda has a passion for natural remedies, exercise physiology, tennis, snowboarding and spending time with her husband and two daughters.

    Amanda uses her own method influenced by the Chakra system that incorporates mind/body techniques that break down barriers that limit success in her clients. Amanda leads with her heart and appreciates mindful connections with fellow colleagues and students.

NATASCIA KLIMAS
  • BOXING + HIIT

    Natascia realized her passion for fitness on the spin bike, just over 15 years ago. Since then, she has become a Mad Dogg Spin Instructor and has added TRX Suspension Training, Les Mills Body Pump and Les Mills RPM to her list of certifications. She is an AFAA certified Group Fitness instructor and truly loves working in the class atmosphere - you will find her teaching boot camp, HIIT or boxing classes and always challenging herself to learn or train in something new. She has completed 6 half marathons, a Tough Mudder and several other obstacle course runs. In her spare time, you can find her on her bike, running outside, stand up paddle boarding, or chasing after her 7 & 5 year old girls and almost 2 year old little man, and loving every second of it!
    Natascia is dedicated to pushing you to your limits and helping you achieve whatever fitness goals you have set for yourself!

Kate Kenyon
  • YOGA

    ‘We are infinitely more capable than we believe we are.’

    Kate started her career as an instructor for NYC Outward Bound. She led expeditions for South Bronx High School, and quickly realized the students taught her more than she taught them. She only needed to provide space for students to challenge and support each other, and in the process, they uncovered their leadership potential. Sometimes the space was a physical challenge, and sometimes the space was staying put, listening, and speaking to one another. The same principles applied to her next 20 years as a leadership consultant for higher education, corporations, and as an internal associate with a global organization.

    Kate began her yoga practice in 2000 attending Baron Baptiste studios. In 2018 she joined Sara Kimball’s yoga classes at BarreCoast. Sara’s approach provides options for each student to choose their own path physically and mentally, class which resonated with Kate. She completed her 200-hour certification with Intentional Embodiment Yoga.

    For Kate, every day we practice yoga is an opportunity to reach within and beyond ourselves. Some days we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones physically to build strength. Some days we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones mentally by attending to and uncovering our inner voice.

AUDRA ARSENAULT
  • BARRE

    Audra was born and raised in Westerly, RI and started coming to BarreCoast in 2016. After graduating from Westerly High in 2017, she went on to attend Providence College where she earned two Bachelor’s Degrees; one in Psychology and the other in Health Policy Management.

    Audra grew up playing plenty of sports and danced at Miss Jeanne’s for 16 years. In 2020, she became certified to teach barre through BarreCoast, as it quickly became her new favorite way to exercise!

    Audra started working the desk at BarreCoast in 2017, and still helps out when needed. She spends plenty of time at the studio between teaching, taking class and of course, shopping!

Paula Gencarelli
  • BOXING

    Paul is a boxing and hiit instructor who loves the early morning shift! You can catch Paula bright and early, kick starting the morning with a hip hop infused boxing hybrid class that gets your blood pumping and body and mind ready for the day ahead!

    Paula's dream had always been to be a fitness instructor and in a constant quest to learn and grow she has recently embarked on her 200 hour yoga teacher training journey.

    In her spare time she loves reading at the beach, spending time with her family and grabbing a juice at our BarreCoast neighbor, High Tide Juice bar!

Sara Kimball
  • YOGA

    Sara Kimball is a E-RYT 500 with over 10 years of teaching experience. She completed her most advanced training with Jason Crandell in San Francisco in 2018.

    Sara has been a Yoga Teacher at BarreCoast since 2015. She has also taught at the Mystic Shala, High Street Yoga, Hot on Bank and the Mystic YMCA.

    Sara has been leading Yoga Teacher Trainings with her own Yoga Alliance Approved School, Intentional Embodiment Yoga, since 2019. Sara also offers Yoga Alliance Approved Continuing Education for current yoga teachers, Private Lessons for Individuals and Groups, Breath Coaching and Special Events.

Krista Gamble
  • YOGA + BARRE

    Krista moved to the Mystic/Stonington area from New York City where she lived for seven years working in the fashion industry,

    She received her 200 hour RYT from Sonic Yoga, NYC. Currently, Krista is in the process of finishing her tier one Baptiste Certification and is working on her 300 hour yoga teaching certification with Elizabeth Johnstone at Recovery Yoga. She completed Level One training with Baron Baptiste in Sedona, Arizona as well as Art of Assisting, and Level Two with Paige Eleisonfounder of Africa Yoga Project. Krista loves what the Baptiste methodology stands for: being in alignment with your true, authentic self creates abundance for all you desire in life.

    When she’s not on the mat, you can find her spending time with her husband and daughter and exploring New England!

Emily Evans
  • BOXING + TRX

    Emily received her degree in Biology from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont and then went on to complete the Physical Therapy Assistants (PTA) license through the New England Institute of Technology.

    Emily worked as a physical therapist assistant at First Physical Therapy here in Westerly as well as South County Hospital. She also has a holistic Health Coach certification through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She obtained her Primary Group Exercise Certification in 2018 and fell in love with motivating and teaching group fitness classes. She is also a Certified Functional Strength Coach through Mike Boyle, and a Level 1 and 2 Kinesio Tape practitioner. In 2019, she completed a year-long specialty certification in Orthopedic Physical Therapy.

    Emily believes in a holistic and multi-dimensional approach to wellness and that moving your body every day can transform your life. Currently, she is enjoying her new daughter, Hazel, and spending time outdoors with her husband and two dogs.

Kristi Varisco
  • YOGA

    Kristi came to yoga when living in San Francisco and pregnant with her daughter. She quickly realized that not only did yoga help with flexibility of body it also helped in finding focus and calm.

    After 10 years as a practicing yogi she took the plunge and received a 200hr teacher certification through Live, Love Teach with Phil Urso in 2012. In 2017 she completed a 300hr yoga teacher certification with Elizabeth Johnstone through Recovery Yoga.

    Since then she has been sharing her practice with children and adults as well as integrating yoga into her work with clients as a therapist. She teaches a mindful, slower paced flow that focuses on awareness of your body.

    In addition to being a 500hr RYT Kristi is also a Licensed Professional Counselor.

REGINA TOOMEY
  • YOGA

    Regina began practicing yoga to enhance her running and soon discovered there was so much more to Yoga than a post run stretch. The more Regina practiced, the more she wanted to learn, receiving her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Certification from the Intentional Embodiment Yoga School with Sara Kimball in 2020. In 2022 she completed her 300-hour Yoga Teacher Certification with Jason Crandell. Regina enjoys being a student as much as a teacher, and has completed additional training in Injury Management with Jason Crandell, Teaching Yoga to Seniors with Carol Krucoff and Kimberly Carson, and Breathwork. Regina is currently enrolled in The Art of Teaching Beginners with Jason Crandell.

    Regina teaches a modern vinyasa flow. You will find her classes to be challenging and instructive but always with a lighthearted approach. Regina also teaches Chair Yoga and private yoga lessons. Her goal is for students of all ages and abilities to see the benefits of Yoga, and to take the lessons they learn on the matt into their everyday life.

    When she is not practicing yoga, Regina loves to read, walk, bike, golf, and above all spend time with her family.

Ben Oliveri, Barrecoast yoga teacher
  • YOGA

    Ben is a 200hr certified yoga teacher and did his training in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. He started to practice yoga once in a while after hurting his back in college, but then began to practice more consistently once he realized the powerful benefits the practice was having on his mental and emotional state.

    Ben has the most fun practicing power, vinyasa, arm balances etc, but the most beneficial practice for him is definitely yin! Ben loves to share the benefits of slowing down with others. Little things like noticing the breath and where we are holding tension can have such a profound impact on our lives. In his classes Ben tries to teach two main concepts to students: 1. The breath is the most important part of the practice and 2. It doesn’t matter what poses you can or can’t do. Yoga is for everybody!

    Ben travels quite a bit, but Vermont is the closest thing to a "home" for him. When he’s not practicing yoga Ben likes to cook, snowboard, travel to new places, and spend a lot of time with his beagle.

Rose Serra
  • BOXING + BARRE + HIIT

    With many years of dance and gymnastics throughout her life, Rose was a natural BarreCoast fit and joined the team in 2020 teaching Barre, HIIT, and Boxing. Rose received a B.S. in Biology and Environmental Studies which enabled her to pursue a passion for land conservation, sustainability and local agriculture.

    In the fall of 2021, Rose became the new owner of High Tide Juice Co. located right next door to BarreCoast, where she shares her appreciation for local food and plant based eating with the community. Coupled with her love for fitness she strives to stimulate the health and well being of others through education, movement, and fresh healthy foods!

  • YOGA + BARRE

    Andrea found her love for yoga in 2017 after graduating at URI and finishing up her college softball career. After so many years of practice, gravitating towards a new fitness format was the perfect next step.

    Andrea took her yoga teacher training in late 2020/early 2021 and has since completed her barre and yoga sculpt certifications.

    For Andrea’s “day job” she works as an auditor for a public accounting firm in Providence. In her free time she loves being with her family and pup Oakley, doing any outdoor activities and reading.

  • BARRE

    Molly is a New Jersey native who recently moved to New England. She began dancing at the age of 3, and went on to do about 20 years of competitive dance up to the college level. She is a certified barre instructor, and also works in social media marketing. When she's not working her hobbies include snowboarding in the winter months, hitting the beach and boating in the summer months, and traveling the world with friends and family!

Cara Servidio
  • BOXING + HIIT

    Cara received her degree in Business Administration and Dance in 2010 from Central Michigan University. She has studied many types of dance including ballet, jazz, tap and ballroom. She loves to salsa and swing dance!

    When she’s not at Barrecoast she and her mom “Miss Lisa” own and operate Jeanne’s Dance and Gymnastics Center in Westerly, RI. She has been teaching for almost 12 years with the family business.

    She is a barre, yoga and TRX enthusiast and is loves to share her love of movement with the Barrecoast and Boxcoast team.

KATIE MARTIN
  • BARRE + TRX + HIIT

    Katie Martin has 20 years of experience working in the fitness industry and holds a degree in Exercise Sports Science from UNC Chapel Hill.

    She began her career as an associate working her way up to Wellness Director for the EPA where she ran the fitness center, health fairs, and wellness programs for the federal employees. It was there that she explored her love for teaching group classes and honed her skills.

    Katie has held several certifications over the years including a comprehensive Pilates certification from Power Pilates NYC. She was trained by Andrea Rodgers, creator of Xtend Barre, and with a background in Pilates and dance was invited to be an Xtend Barre Teacher trainer for the growing company. Katie then went on to open her own Pilates/Barre/TRX/Zumba studio in Chapel Hill, NC fulfilling a life long dream.

    After six years in business, she closed her doors to move with her husband to CT for a job opportunity.

    Katie is honored and excited to be a part of the BarreCoast family and do what she loves best- helping others feel good!

    When she is not teaching she is hiking and spending time at the beach with her husband, two littles, and their fluffy golden retriever.

Michèle Szynal
  • YOGA

    After spending twenty-five years working in corporate communications for some of the world’s largest companies and brands, Michèle moved to the beach in Misquamicut, Rhode Island to concentrate on finding a more balanced lifestyle.

    Until moving to Rhode Island, Michèle had never taken a yoga class – she was a self-avowed gym rat who preferred high intensity workouts to, “yoga - that’s for people who don’t like to sweat.” After taking her first hot power vinyasa class, though, she was hooked and has rarely missed a day on her mat since.

    With no intention of ever teaching a yoga class, she completed her 200-hour Baptiste methodology yoga teacher training with The Open Space in Stonington, CT. After completing her training, she realized that leading a class is just as rewarding, adrenaline-filled and fun and as taking a class. Since then, Michèle has continued to hone her teaching style and practice -taking workshops and seminars regularly. She has also completed her 100-hour Yin training with Kate Lombardo at YogaRenew. Yin Yoga is a perfect complement to the dynamic vinyasa styles of yoga that Michèle loves.

    Michèle’s teaching style follows the principles of Baptiste yoga - incorporating alignment, mindfulness, flow and breath – with some ridiculously good music rolled in.

  • YOGA

    Nikki Scott is a certified 200 RYT yoga instructor through Intention Embodiment Yoga School. She is a 500 RYT with Jason Crandall Yoga Method -Named “one of the teachers shaping the future of yoga” by Yoga Journal. Nikki continues to further her yoga experience and education by teaching classes at BarreCoast. Nikki is also a member of the Yoga Alliance, the largest nonprofit association representing the yoga community.

    Nikki is a retired high school administrator and former physical education teacher. She is a two-time recipient of the Horace Man Crystal Apple Award in recognition of outstanding achievement in teaching. Nikki holds a B.S. in adapted physical education and a M.S. in physical education from the University of Rhode Island.

    She resides in Ashaway with her husband Stephen and Chief, her beloved Doberman. She is the proud mom of Stephen Jr., and Vanessa.

Sarah Rochetto
  • BARRE + BOXING

    Sarah began working as a Barre Coast Instructor in 2023. Born and raised in Westerly, Rhode Island, she received her bachelor’s degree at the University Rhode Island in 2008 in accounting. Sarah’s quick wit, attention to detail for alignment and poses, and killer music choices guarantee for a great workout experience. Sarah’s focus is on strength training and loves seeing clients find an inner strength they didn’t know they had. Her supportive style of teaching is welcoming for the beginner and can be dialed up for an extra challenge.
    When Sarah is not at work or at BarreCoast, you can find her with her toes in the sand at the beach, or with her nose in a book as well as spending time with family and friends.

EMMA ZELKEN
  • BARRE

    In 2019 Emma became certified in bootybarre by Tracey Mallett. She then decided to receive her certification in bbarreless, which brings barre into the center of the room, in 2021. Although, her love for barre began years before as a student at Barrecoast after having her first son. She loves the way barre works your whole body to great music.
    When not teaching barre she loves being active with her husband, three sons, and 2 dogs, Indra and Niko.

  • YOGA

    Amanda is a long-time student of Yoga. Found at the age of 17, her decades of yoga have grown her practice over time into an 11+ year teaching career.

    Her background of study is multi-disciplined with a recent focus in Integrative Yoga Therapy. Amanda teaches Power Vinyasa, Somatics and Yoga Nidra as well as private sessions in Joint Freeing Movement. She is currently enrolled with Kripalu to become a Yoga Therapist.

    Expect to be welcomed to the work it takes to gain a deeper mind-body connection inside her lessons, and to often find her on the mat next to you in class.

    RYT 400
    Biomechanics & Therapeutics
    Kripalu Integrative Yoga Therapy

Lauren Barber
  • YOGA

    Lauren is a RYT 200 yoga instructor. Her classes consist of creative vinyasa variations that are both playful and challenging. In college, Lauren studied anatomy of the human body. She actively continues to expand her knowledge of yoga anatomy for all bodies which is evident in her class as she offers a series of modifications and progressions for all levels.

    When not in a yoga class, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband and son and taking her practice outside into nature on her “floating mat” for some paddle board yoga. She believes yoga is a continuous practice that provides each student with a tool that can be taken with them where ever they go.

Diane Macera
  • BOXING + TBB + HIIT

    Diane obtained her personal trainer certificate from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) in 2009 and has continued her education in the industry by adding NASM specialty certificates in sports performance, weight loss, youth exercise, and elderly training. Diane also obtained her spinning instructor certification from Mad Dogg Spinning in 2010.

    Whether you’re taking your first step into fitness or wanting to add variety to your existing workouts, Diane realizes your time is valuable and limited.

    Besides her passion of being a mother and wife, Diane has helped all levels of clients on their journey to feeling better. She uses a mix of free weights, body weight exercises, and cardiovascular drills to tailor an individual workout for each client/class. Diane’s approach to fitness is full body conditioning and creating a healthy lifestyle.

Lisa Ferraro
  • BOUTIQUE MANAGER/BUYER

    Since BarreCoast opened in 2014, Lisa has been an integral part in the expansion of our clothing boutique. Working with Kristen bringing unique athleisure brands to our area and choosing just the right pieces to create our BarreCoast vibe.

    Merchandising our window and counter displays, including creating outfit ideas for our clients are some of Lisa's favorite parts of her job. "Style to me is the way in which we express ourselves through fashion and decor".

    Although a New Yorker at heart, Lisa is happy to be living in Westerly with her husband and three daughters.

    Fitness and fashion are her passions which she loves to share with each person she welcomes through our doors.

Wesley Hefel BarreCoast instructor
  • HIIT + LIFT

    From a lifelong athlete to a seasoned fitness professional, Wesley’s journey has been anything but ordinary. She spent 16 years competing in snowboard slopestyle events nationally and internationally until a torn ACL in 2015 forced her to pivot. That's when her passion for fitness took on a new dimension.

    Wesley holds accreditations from the National Academy of Sports Medicine and has completed specialized courses such as OPEX CCP L1, Active Life Immersion, and Pregnancy and Postpartum Athleticism. With 20 years of lifting experience and 7 years as a professional in the fitness industry, she understands the value in meeting individuals where they are. Every BODY has its own story, and everyone has their own specific needs. Her passion is to help you reach your full potential and live a limitless life in the body of your dreams.

    Fun Facts about Wesley: She loves to Travel! She has visited every state in the US and has lived in 6 different states. Her current favorite travel adventure is to go camping in New Hampshire with her husband, 2yo. baby girl, & giant schnauzer. Her immediate family lives in Brazil and she is a dual citizen!

Rachel Thomas Shapiro
  • YOGA

    Rachel began exploring different styles of yoga some 15 years ago to help bring mindfulness to her daily life. In each instance, linking movement to breath helped quiet her mind and find balance both physically and emotionally.

    As a science teacher, she is particularly drawn to practice that is playful but has an anatomical focus that allows students to challenge themselves in a safe environment.

    She completed her 200-hour training with Intentional Embodiment Yoga in 2021 and is continuing her yogic education. Her delight on the mat is found in the convergence of sthira and sukha - finding steadiness and ease in each pose.

    When not in the studio or classroom, Rachel has too many hobbies (!) and might be rowing on the Mystic River, riding her bike around the area, walking her dog, making jewelry, or cooking something tasty.

Alyssa Drake
  • YOGA

    Through her 7 plus years as a fitness and yoga instructor Alyssa's focus has been to deliver a well-rounded movement experience with a goal of enhancing her students overall well-being. Alyssa's classes provide an opportunity to develop strength and stamina all while having a good time. Her hope is to bring positivity into the day of each individual she instructs and have them leave class feeling accomplished, balanced and powerful!
    Alyssa has continued to develop her talents and focus as a teacher through classes, workshops and wellness training. She is a certified yoga instructor, is trained in the Garuda method, she is a personal trainer and a certified holistic health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Previously, Alyssa shared her love of yoga as the owner of Rhode Island Yoga Center, which she sold in 2021 upon moving to Mystic, CT where she now resides.

CINDY ARSENAULT
  • FRONT DESK

    Cindy graduated from Rhode Island College with a BS degree in health and biology and later earned her Masters degree in Health Education. She recently wrapped up her teaching career; which included 13 years in CT public schools and the last 20 years in her hometown of Westerly!

    Cindy has had a lifelong passion for wellness, nutrition and fitness-which included running several half marathons. 9 years ago she tried a class at BarreCoast´s opening weekend and has been here ever since!

    She is enjoying being part of the BarreCoast team working at the front desk and in the boutique.

    When she is not at BarreCoast, Cindy enjoys the beach, walking, cooking, traveling and most of all, spending time with her family as a wife, Mom to three daughters and “Lulu”!

MEET OUR MASCOT

BEAR ULLRICH

Bear is BarreCoast's head of Public Relations. With a wag bear greets all guests and makes everyone feel welcome! You can find him greeting friends at the front door or with mom at the end of barre class where he always meets her for the stretch.

When not working at BarreCoast, Bear enjoys going weekly to Rhodes Collar to play and learn with his friends, and being anywhere with mom. Bear looks forward to seeing you at BarreCoast soon!