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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 my 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 2 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 2 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

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
CrossFit Spot the Flaw Certification
First Aid/CPR/AED
HYROX Certified Trainer

Rob True

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

I attended my first CrossFit class in 2013, and it has been a part of my life ever since. I love bringing my years of experience (both as an athlete and a coach) to help guide others in their personal fitness journeys.

I have always enjoyed “class style” fitness sessions. Prior to taking my first CrossFit class in 2013, I was a regular attendee at my local Y for spinning classes. The camaraderie and motivation of class style sessions resonated with me, and helped me try things I never thought I would do (such as participating in a 2-day, 192 mile charity bicycle ride to raise money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute).

Once I took my first CrossFit class, I was hooked. I embraced the CrossFit motto of “constantly varied functional movements performed at a high intensity.” I continued to learn new things, and found that each class presented a new challenge. That continues to this day!

As a coach, my primary goals are 1) Be Safe, 2) Have Fun, and 3) Move Forward in your Fitness and Wellness Journey. I work hard to instill my passion for CrossFit in others. And as I age, I am embracing the “functional strength” aspects of CrossFit, so that I can continue to do all the things I love to do!

Outside of CrossFit, as a new Ithaca resident, I spend my time taking advantage of everything Ithaca and the surrounding area has to offer.

Certifications
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED

Pete Bentkowski

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

Coming to CrossFit in 2016 changed my life. It gave me the foundation to push past my limits, build confidence, and realize that I’m capable—physically, mentally, and emotionally—of so much more than I ever thought possible. Being part of a community and witnessing the journey of other members is a true privilege that continues to inspire me every day.

I grew up involved in sports and athletics, developing an early appreciation for teamwork, competition, and movement. As an adult, I led what could charitably be described as a lifestyle where healthy living often took a back seat. Still, I stayed active through outdoor pursuits—hiking and anything that kept me connected to nature.

Firmly ensconced in middle age, I decided I wanted to be in the best physical shape I could possibly be. That’s when I discovered CrossFit, and it completely changed the way I thought about fitness and what I was capable of.

Since starting CrossFit in 2016, I’ve gained more than strength and endurance—I’ve built confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of how to challenge myself both inside and outside the gym. What began as a personal pursuit has turned into a passion for helping others find that same growth.

As a coach, my goal is to create an environment where every athlete feels supported and empowered to push their limits. I believe CrossFit is for everyone, and that the best part of this journey is the community we build along the way. Being part of CrossFit Vertical and seeing members achieve things they never thought possible continues to inspire me every day.

Outside of CrossFit, I work as an office manager and can usually be found spending time with my wife and our dogs, enjoying the beauty of the Finger Lakes. I’m also active in the local 12-Step recovery community, where I’ve been involved for a number of years helping others pursue sobriety, personal growth, and connection.

Certifications
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
First Aid/CPR/AED
HYROX Certified Trainer

Ryley Uerkvitz


Vinyasa Yoga Instructor

My classes are rooted in the belief that yoga is a powerful tool for everybody. Together, we can access both physical strength and inner resilience.

Hi, I’m Ryley — a 200-hour certified Vinyasa yoga teacher, trained through Mighty Yoga.

Yoga has been a practice in my life for the last 6 years, Yoga has profoundly shifted the way I live and relate — to myself, to others, and the challenges life brings. It’s helped me feel strong, grounded, and connected to the world at large.

My classes are rooted in the belief that yoga is a powerful tool for everybody. Together, we can access both physical strength and inner resilience. With a background in fitness and movement, I love working with students — whether they’re athletes, gym-goers, or just beginning to explore movement — and helping them discover how yoga can support recovery, injury prevention, and safety in their physical practice.

In my teaching, I place strong emphasis on intentional movement, and syncing movement with breath. Each class is designed to guide students into a deeper relationship with their body and breath, while offering space to slow down, reset, and reconnect. Breath is our anchor — both in practice and in life — and I believe that breath awareness has the power to transform not just how we move, but how we respond to the world around us.

Apart from yoga, I am a ceramic artist, and love gardening, swimming and boxing! I enjoy making my way around the beautiful forests, lakes, and parks Ithaca has to offer.

Certifications
Vinyasa Yoga

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