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Meet the Team…

We believe that every person’s health and wellness are priorities. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and physical movement promotes mental health. We feel strongly that every person should have equal access to health and wellness, regardless of income or social status. 

We think that keeping the small family feel is important and promotes a strong sense of community and commitment to that community.  We want each and every person that steps through our front door to feel welcome and embraced with our coaches and members. 

We foster kindness and respect.  We shake hands, we hold doors for people, we take care of our gym space, we inquire about how things are going with members and we listen. 

Jana’s dad used to say: “You’re only as good as the company you keep.”  We think we’re keeping some good company with these solid humans…

Jana Leyden

Founder, CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

When I found CrossFit in 2013, I experienced a paradigm shift that was life-changing. Exercise became a “team” sport again.

When I found CrossFit in 2013, I experienced a paradigm shift that was life-changing. Exercise became a “team” sport again. Working out to “stay thin” became working out to gain muscle, get strong, fight the aging process, feel empowered, and move my body in order to live well. Experiencing this personally was (and continues to be) rewarding and refreshing. However, helping others discover this through coaching them has been the ultimate reward. I consider it a gift to work with athletes through CrossFit, and I’m grateful for the opportunity every day.

When I’m not doing CrossFit-related things, I can likely be found trying to keep up with our three very busy kids.  Outside of CrossFit and being a mom, I am passionate about traveling (domestically and internationally), hiking in the Adirondacks, planning my next adventure, and diving into a book to relax for a few minutes.  

Welcome to CrossFit Vertical and our gym.  We are thrilled to be beside you as you experience this lifestyle.   

Certifications: 
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
CrossFit Weightlifting Certification
Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer Certification
CrossFit Scaling Certification
CrossFit Kids Certification
CrossFit Spot the Flaw Certification
CrossFit Gymnastics Certification
CrossFit Masters Certification
CrossFit Nutrition Level I Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED

 

Laura Hayduchok

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

Every day, I’m blown away by the determination shown by every member who walks through the door.  There’s nothing like seeing a room full of people dig deep and find the will to do one more rep when their lungs are on fire and muscles are screaming. 

Growing up, sports were always my main after school activity.  I enjoyed learning new skills and working together during matches or to survive a grueling practice.  Following college, I suddenly found myself in a much more sedentary lifestyle and missing the team camaraderie when I did make it to the globo gym.

After a few years of failing to keep up with a running program, I was encouraged to try CrossFit where I found the same physical, mental, and social stimulation I had missed from team sports.  While I was initially intimidated to join, I quickly got hooked on challenging myself during workouts (to the best of my ability; CrossFit can be for anyone, given good coaching and the right scale) and the downright outstanding community.

Wanting to give back to the community that has given me so much, I completed my L1 in 2018 and began coaching.  Every day, I’m blown away by the determination shown by every member who walks through the door.  There’s nothing like seeing a room full of people dig deep and find the will to do one more rep when their lungs are on fire and muscles are screaming.  I’ve found the incredible grit that CrossFit builds in people translates beyond the gym.  It squashes that self-doubt and proves you can do more than you ever thought you could.

Certifications: 
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
CrossFit Weightlifting Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED
CrossFit Scaling Certification

Heather Cooper

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

I am excited to know that with CrossFit, I will be able to take care of and play with my grandchildren without the typical limitations that aging can impose.

I’ve been involved with some type of fitness for my entire life and have engaged in almost every fad fitness that has spanned the last 30 years: high impact, low impact and step aerobics, Bootcamp, kickboxing, P90x, Spartan races, long-distance running, etc.. But as with all fads, they come and go when the shininess wears off and that brand of fitness gets monotonous and uninspiring. That is what is completely different about CrossFit and why, even after 7+ years of experience, I am still excited to engage with, talk about, read about, learn more about, coach, etc. CrossFit. It has completely flipped the mindset of what I thought fitness and working out should be and what the results of fitness should look like. I am excited to know that with CrossFit, I will be able to take care of and play with my grandchildren without the typical limitations that aging can impose.

Certifications: 
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
CrossFit Weightlifting Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED
CrossFit Scaling Certification
CrossFit Spot the Flaw Certification
CrossFit Teaching Movement Certification

Stacey Caskey

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

My goal in becoming a coach was to expand upon my knowledge of functional fitness so that I could enhance my own programming but in doing so I am now inspired to share this wealth of information with people like me, people who might be intimidated to take that first step.

My functional fitness journey began in September of 2020 when I started personal training sessions with Jana at her home gym. I realized, mid pandemic while working at home sitting in front of a computer all day, that I needed to actively focus on my health and well-being and personal training was the best option since most gyms were closed. To say that this journey has been life-changing and eye-opening is an understatement. I barely made my way through the warm-up during my first session and debated whether or not I would come back. I honestly thought I would go for a few sessions and that would be it but the inner athlete in me wouldn’t give up and I stayed on for seven months. I quickly discovered that I am stronger than I gave myself credit for. In watching my coach inspire others to become one percent better day after day I was inspired to do the same. My goal in becoming a coach was to expand upon my knowledge of functional fitness so that I could enhance my own programming but in doing so I am now inspired to share this wealth of information with people like me, people who might be intimidated to take that first step.

CrossFit offers a built-in community of support that has now become like family. I have reconnected with classmates from high school and college as well as old colleagues I have not seen in several years. This community inspires me to be the best version of myself that I can be for my family. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in Ithaca with my husband of 21 years and our 2 kiddos. My daughter, Isabella is 15, nonverbal, and has Down syndrome. My son, Caleb is 13 and has Autism. I am a mama bear who is an advocate for the special needs community and I love how functional fitness is being incorporated into rehabilitation programs for individuals with disabilities. Every move and workout program we do in CrossFit is scalable to meet the ability of the athlete which is what keeps me coming back day after day.  

My goal is to have the most positive impact on the lives of the people that I work with; helping them become the healthiest, happiest versions of themselves. This goes beyond the physical benefits that CrossFit has to offer and encompasses a healthy balance between performance, mindset, motivation and lifestyle. I am honored to be part of the CrossFit Vertical coaching staff and can’t wait to be a part of your own health and wellness journey. 

Certifications: 
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
CrossFit Scaling Certification
CrossFit Spot the Flaw Certification
Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED 

Tara Birkmeyer

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

When I think of CrossFit, I think functional fitness, fun, and family, especially at CrossFit Vertical. Becoming a coach has allowed me to take my knowledge of the movement and methodology deeper and help others do the same, while reaching their own individual goals. This has added a whole new level of passion and enjoyment to being a member of this gym. 

I’ve always been very active, having played soccer since the age of 8. My CrossFit journey started back in 2016 when I was looking to gain strength for collegiate level soccer. I joined a small gym (which has since closed) with several of my family members, which felt like a home away from home, and was something I missed after having to take some time off due to a soccer injury. Eventually, I found CrossFit Vertical and immediately knew I had found the gym I’d been looking for. Walking through the doors and working out in such a supportive environment is the best hour of my day, especially when I get to share the experience with people who all have a common goal: Work out, socialize, have fun, and leave happier! 

Outside of CrossFit, I’m an elementary school teacher and enjoy spending time with my family and being outdoors. 

Certifications

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
CrossFit Teaching Movement Certification
Anatomy Course Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED

Cody Dettlaff

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

I find sense of purpose helping others in their fitness journey whether it’s a brand-new athlete looking to be functional, a seasoned athlete needing to be pushed, or
somewhere in between.

Community is what many seek (including myself) as they break out to explore their locality, and what better place to find that than in their local gym.

CrossFit is a community haven as I discovered over a decade ago. I was greeted by coaches and members alike with smiles and an eagerness to help me be the best me. I left as quickly as I joined due to a nine-year career in the Marine Corps. However, during that time I always found myself searching for a fitness outlet that possessed community and coaches/members that built each other up.

Coming to my senses, I came back to CrossFit in August of 2021 and hit the ground running. I loved it so much upon returning that in November 2021 I completed my CF-L1 and began coaching at my local box. I coached the beginner’s class for nine months, which I found difficult
but extremely rewarding.

I find sense of purpose helping others in their fitness journey whether it’s a brand-new athlete looking to be functional, a seasoned athlete needing to be pushed, or
somewhere in between.

Outside of coaching, I am a student at Cornell where I’m studying marine biology. Also, I work in Admissions as a Peer Counselor and with the Physical Education department as a Divemaster where I teach others how to scuba dive. I enjoy spending much of my time on Cayuga lake doing water sports such as wakeboarding, surfing, or foiling. Not to mention bike-n-brews around Ithaca and Trumansburg!

Certifications

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED

Laura Sullivan

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

I find sense of purpose helping others in their fitness journey whether it’s a brand-new athlete looking to be functional, a seasoned athlete needing to be pushed, or
somewhere in between.

Growing up I played a lot of different sports and was always very active. However, after college, I struggled to find a fitness routine that I enjoyed and could commit to until I tried CrossFit in 2022. I was able to push myself both physically and mentally in CrossFit workouts while constantly learning new skills. Most importantly CrossFit Vertical provided a supportive environment in which to workout and gave me the community that I missed from playing team sports.

One of my favorite things about CrossFit is that it is for everyone. There is always a way to scale a workout to meet an athlete where they are on that day and help them achieve their goals, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to do just that and help others in their fitness journeys.

Outside of CrossFit, I am a graduate student in public policy at Cornell and enjoy spending time with friends and watching basketball.

Certifications

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Louiza Easley

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

What drives me as an athlete and a coach is the opportunity to inspire others along their fitness journey.  Through CrossFit, I’ve learned that the true measure of strength isn’t just found in the weight on the barbell but in the camaraderie, perseverance, and shared victories within our community.

My journey into the world of CrossFit has been nothing short of amazing. From the very first day I stepped into the gym with Andy and Jana during my onramp, I knew I had found a workout routine, but more importantly, I found a lifestyle and a community that resonated with my core values. 

What drives me as an athlete and a coach is the opportunity to inspire others along their fitness journey.  Through CrossFit, I’ve learned that the true measure of strength isn’t just found in the weight on the barbell but in the camaraderie, perseverance, and shared victories within our community. My goal is to celebrate every milestone and each moment of growth on your journey. 

When I’m not working out or coaching, I love rock climbing, hiking, camping, and playing with my two mischievous cats. For work, I own an online co-curricular institution focused on teaching debate and public speaking to kids.

Certifications

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Meg Reichert

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach

More than anything, I want to be a positive example of health and wellness for my children, showing them that taking care of ourselves is both important and enjoyable. 

My passion is helping people navigate their journey to better health at every stage of life. I’ve worked in the wellness/fitness space for years—I owned a group fitness franchise for pregnant and postpartum women, and I’ve also done personal training and group classes in gyms. These days, I’ve been back at Crossfit for the last three years after a four-year break, and I love the strength and resilience it helps me build.

More than anything, I want to be a positive example of health and wellness for my children, showing them that taking care of ourselves is both important and enjoyable. 

In addition to my fitness background, I work as a nutritionist and health coach. My approach is all about combining these skills to help people achieve their health goals in a way that works for them. I focus on individualized eating, stepping away from the one diet-fits-all mindset, and believe in the power of high-quality, whole foods to nourish not just the body but also the mind and heart.

I love helping my clients move away from restrictive diets and instead discover how to enjoy food as part of a balanced, fulfilling life. Food should be something that brings us joy and connection, not just physical health—and that’s what I aim to share with everyone I work with.

Certifications 

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
NASM-certified personal trainer
National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach
Certified weight loss coach
Certified Nutrition Coach
Certified Culinary Coach
Certified Lifestyle Medicine Coach
First Aid/CPR/AED

Tim Johnston

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

The longer I do CrossFit the more I realize the positive feedback loop between my physical health, mental health, and sense of community connection. As a coach I’m inspired to bring more people into the gym to see what functional fitness can do for them.

Growing up I didn’t play any organized sports and the only time I ran anywhere was to find a quiet place to read. In my mid-twenties some of my friends joined CrossFit and they were so excited about it I had to try it for myself. Until I started CrossFit I didn’t think that weightlifting was for me, but after my first deadlift I was hooked!

I’ve found that the exercises we do transfer to every aspect of life outside of the gym – from moving furniture to hiking to carrying around my nieces and nephews. We all have different reasons for being here and what I love most about CrossFit Vertical is how we encourage each other to reach our individual goals. As a coach my goal is to lead classes where people can have fun, work hard, and try something new with support from the group.

Outside of coaching I am a clinical social worker. I can usually be found hanging out with my partner and our dog Bette Midler (“Middles” for short). I’m also still a bookworm, so let me know if you need a recommendation for your next read!

Certifications

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Ben Sisenwein

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer

As a coach I hope to share these traits with every person who walks in the front door. It doesn’t matter where your fitness level lies, as long as you can come in with a smile and willingness to move your body, we’ll make it happen. CrossFit is for everyone.

In the summer of 2019, I was 14 years old and did not participate in any sports or physical activity. My mental and physical health were concerning at the time, which made me realize I needed a change. This is when I was introduced to CrossFit and began my fitness journey at CrossFit Roots. I started in the teens program and eventually joined the adults when I turned 16. CrossFit gave me confidence, strength, better communication skills, and a sense of belonging and trust in the CrossFit community. It’s allowed me to take control of my life and use the fitness I’ve gained to help myself and others.

As a coach I hope to share these traits with every person who walks in the front door. It doesn’t matter where your fitness level lies, as long as you can come in with a smile and willingness to move your body, we’ll make it happen. CrossFit is for everyone.

Outside of the gym, I’m a student at Ithaca College studying film with an interest in documentaries. In the future, I hope to show real stories about people and places the world is unaware of. My hobbies include hiking, snowboarding, biking, and hanging out with friends. Feel free to say hi if you see me.

Certifications

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Brett Reichert

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

What started as a personal outlet has grown into something much bigger. Coaching lets me pay that experience forward—helping others feel more confident, capable, and strong in their everyday lives. Whether you’re here to get fitter, build resilience, or just enjoy the best hour of your day, I’m excited to be part of that process with you.

I came to CrossFit after years of military training, traditional lifting, and endurance work. I was used to pushing myself, but what I didn’t expect was how much I’d value the shared effort—the energy of a class working through a tough WOD together. CrossFit challenged me physically, but it also gave me a sense of community I hadn’t realized I was missing.

What started as a personal outlet has grown into something much bigger. Coaching lets me pay that experience forward—helping others feel more confident, capable, and strong in their everyday lives. Whether you’re here to get fitter, build resilience, or just enjoy the best hour of your day, I’m excited to be part of that process with you.

CrossFit has taught me that consistency beats perfection and that showing up is often the hardest and most important part. I look forward to working with you, wherever you are in your journey.

Outside the gym, I am an active duty Army officer working at Cornell and coach youth soccer and basketball. 

Certifications
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Our Canine Team Members

  • Ellie and Oly

Contact us today!

crossfitvertical@gmail.com
607-423-4666

700 West Buffalo Street
Unit #2
Ithaca, NY 14850

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Hours of Operation

Monday 6-9:30am, 12-1pm, 4-7pm

Tuesday 6am-2pm, 4-7pm

Wednesday 6-9:30am, 12-1pm, 4-7pm

Thursday 6-7am, 12-2pm, 4-7pm

Friday 6-9:30am, 12-1pm, 4-6pm

Saturday 8:00am-1:00pm

Sunday 10am-11am

A Registered CrossFit Affiliate

To learn more, visit crossfit.com.

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