Our Trainers
Connie Wong
Tai Chi
Connie has worked as a Tai Chi instructor in Balwyn since 2006. Her expertise has been honed through her involvement in a government funded Monash University research project on exercises for independent living, and she also has prior experience in rehabilitation. She has a genuine passion for helping others to regain confidence in posture and balance, and to aim not for perfection, but for relaxation and enjoyment. Her classes encourage focus and flow – through both controlled, mindful sequences of movement, and relaxing and loosening joints. Connie always creates a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for new students.
Tom Scott
Strength (Active)
Tom is a passionate teacher of mature aged citizens. He holds a Certificate 3 and 4 in fitness and training and has been training groups and individuals in general fitness and strength since 2012. His classes focus on being mobile, in particular through building leg strength. Plus, each class is served up with plenty of humour and discussion of topical issues.
Elizabeth Mackenzie
Meditation
Elizabeth is a qualified and experienced yoga and meditation teacher who takes joy in sharing her experience and practice with out community. She is qualified through the Australian College of Classical Yoga and is a Dance Movement Therapy Association Professional Member. Elizabeth is a graduate of the Hakomi Method of Mindfulness based Psychotherapy (International Hakomi Institute) and also works as Activities Coordinator at St Vincent’s Prague House in Melbourne.
Simone Arndt
Exercise to Music, Strength & Balance, Strength, Gym, Personal Training
Originally from Germany, Simone decided to embrace her love for sports and fitness when she moved to Australia in the early 2000s. She has a Certificate 3 and 4 in fitness and a diploma of fitness, and has worked at numerous local gyms as a group instructor and personal trainer. Simone’s classes are filled with a variety of exercises and she is passionate about good posture, range of motion and balance. Her aim is to keep Balwyn Evergreen Centre members independent, strong, fit and active.
Jon North
Men’s Exercise Group, Strength (Gentle)
Jon is a qualified fitness instructor with specialisation in injury management. Jon is an energetic and dedicated teacher who takes a personalised approach to each Balwyn Evergreen Centre member during his classes. Throughout the class, he provides gentle tips and strength recommendations and ongoing encouragement.
Lisa Paiman
Zumba Gold
Lisa studied classical ballet from the age of 5 into her teens and has been giving classes to help others learning the ropes of classical ballet, including a series of private ballet lessons with Marilyn Rowe. Lisa also practices adult tap dancing and Rock ’n’ Roll dancing. A Zumba fan since 2010, Lisa turned her passion into a part-time job, now teaching Zumba Gold in addition to her career as a medical scientist. The beautiful range of rhythms allows her to share the joy of dance in a fun atmosphere – which she invites you to join and try for yourself.
Edward Wakeham
Seated Strength Exercise (Gentle)
Ed is a passionate fitness trainer who has 17 years experience in the Fitness Industry at the YMCA and would love to help you improve your fitness. With a focus on gradual progression and making sure the movements help to build strength and mobility in all ranges of motion for everyday tasks and improving lifestyle - Ed will cater to everyone in the class and create a fun and energetic environment. All ages and abilities welcome - he looks forward to see you soon!
“My patients have been thrilled at their involvement in this program. Some have made new friends and most feel more confident with their mobility.”
Dr Mohr – local GP