INSTRUCTORS

Ruthie is the owner and an instructor for The Balance Culture. She majored in Social Work at Southeastern University where she played 4 years of collegiate volleyball. She was a gymnast for 12 years before starting her volleyball career. Ruthie has been passionate about fitness and nutrition her whole life. Her dream has been to create a place where women are encouraged and empowered to be their best selves through fitness, nutrition, and community. She sees The Balance Culture as the kind of positive place where women can work to achieve their goals together! Ruthie is certified through the Athletics Fitness Association of America (AFAA) as a Group Fitness instructor and Mat Pilates instructor, she is a certified Spin instructor though Mad Dogg Athletics and a barre instructor certified through Barre Intensity, she is also a 200 hour RYT.

During a class with Ruthie you can expect to be challenged to push yourself while having fun, her classes are advanced but with modifications offered throughout. She loves her husband and two boys and anything they do together! She loves living in Lakeland and seeing our city grow and thrive!

Stephanie is an owner and instructor for the Balance Culture. She majored in Business Management and earned her MBA from Southeastern University. Stephanie is certified through the Athletics Fitness Association of America (AFAA) as a Group Fitness instructor, Barre Intensity, and Mad Dogg Athletics for Spin. She teaches barre, Spin, Pilates, stretch, hip-hop and strength training. Her background is in dance and has toured, competed, and performed with studios and companies in New York and Florida.

Stephanie’s favorite part about being an instructor is empowering people with “normal schedules” to live extraordinary lives through health and wellness. Her classes will improve your endurance, strengthen your body and empower your workout at any age or fitness level.

Connect with Steph: steph@thebalanceculture.com

Hi, I’m Destiny! Born and raised in Polk County, I come from a big, close-knit family that shaped who I am today. Fitness has always been a part of my life, but over the past few years it’s grown into something much deeper—an undeniable passion for both physical strength and mental wellness.

What started as a personal journey has evolved into something so much bigger. Now, I have the privilege of sharing it with hundreds of women, building a community that inspires, supports, and uplifts each other every day—and that’s what fuels me most.

Outside of fitness, you’ll usually find me walking/running with my husband and our three dogs, or out on the boat enjoying the water with my little crew. 

Hi, my name is Katherine and I am from Lakeland. I was born here. I went through all schooling & college here. I met my husband here, and now we are raising our four kiddos here! We LOVE Lakeland!

Growing up as a competitive gymnast and soccer player served to form a discipline, love, and foundation for athleticism & fitness that has carried over into adulthood.

Quick HIT style workouts have always made the most sense for me as a busy mom and for many years I worked out at home.

However, a friend encouraged me to try a 6am strength class at BC and after experiencing the energy of the class, I was hooked! It felt amazing to work hard alongside other women & I loved getting my workout in before the sun had even risen!

When the opportunity arose to be apart of the BC mission and team I was thrilled! It has been so rewarding to encourage and guide women in their fitness journeys ever since.

Fun fact about me is that I’m an adrenaline junky and I love rollercoasters.

Favorite drink is my oat milk Latte from Concord.

Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Nursing from FSC

I’m Rilee, and I’ve been teaching Pilates at The Balance Culture since 2020. I was born and raised in South Dakota, but I moved to Lakeland in 2016 for school. I was first introduced to group fitness right here at the Balance Culture, and I’ve been hooked ever since taking my first yoga + pilates classes back in 2017. I love the consistency and mindfulness that movement brings to my life, and it’s been a huge part of my daily routine since I first stepped into the studio. Now, I love getting to see other women grow in their own personal fitness journeys — whether that’s finding the right classes and routine for them, or seeing real improvement in their own endurance, strength, and mental stamina.

In addition to teaching Pilates, I’m also a 200 hr RYT, and when you take my classes you can expect to flow from one movement to the next with your breath, just like you would in a vinyasa yoga class. I love to build a solid playlist, a smooth flow, and (of course) a great burn. When I’m not teaching, you can probably find me sitting at Concord with a book or my laptop.

Rilee is certified through Barre Intensity, The Balance Culture, and is a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance.

Hi gorgeous gals, I’m Carley! I grew up in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and I’ve been living in Lakeland for about six years after finishing my undergrad at USF. I originally got into fitness through competitive cheerleading and gymnastics, which I did my entire life. After moving to Lakeland, I found myself craving the same sense of community that cheerleading gave me.

After three years of taking classes at The Balance Culture, I decided to become an instructor because I wanted the women of Lakeland to feel as strong, confident, and supported as this team has made me feel through every workout.

Some fun facts about me is that I’m an epidemiologist and can speak three languages. When I’m not teaching or taking classes at The Balance Culture, you’ll find me thrifting, chatting about all things Bravo or reality TV, or hanging out at a local coffee shop with an iced americano in hand doing any graduate school work. I can’t wait for you to join me in my next class!!

Grace Laychak is an instructor at the balance culture. She graduated from Southeastern University with a degree in Ministerial Leadership. After she graduated she began working at Southeastern as an Enrollment Counselor.

Grace is certified through _______ and has been interested in fitness as long as she can remember. Grace was a competitive cheerleader from elementary school through college.

As someone who is passionate about people and fitness, Graces dream is to simply help women become confident in who they are. In Graces classes you can expect to be celebrated, encouraged and motivated to be the best that YOU can be!

Grace is originally from Connecticut, so she appreciates all FL has to offer! You can find her staring at palm trees, visiting any and every coffee shop with friends and always on her way to a beach!

I’m a native of the Central Florida area and love being apart of the Lakeland and Winter Haven community — it’s the best of both worlds.

My background is rooted in dance, where I spent years training before going on to own a dance studio. That foundation shaped how I approach movement today—intentional, controlled, and built on strong technique. Transitioning into fitness felt like a natural evolution, and I quickly fell in love with the energy of group classes and the way they bring women together. My goal in every class is to create an experience that challenges you, builds confidence, and leaves you feeling stronger than when you walked in.

We don’t rush reps—we own them.
We shake, we sculpt, we leave better.

A fun fact about me is that outside of the studio, I’m training with my French Bulldog to compete in AKC Rally competitions.

My go-to is an iced strawberry matcha, half sweet with oat milk.

Natasha is certified in Pilates, barre, and strength training, with a background in dance and experience coaching women in both group fitness and strength-based classes.
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I’m a native of the Central Florida area and love being apart of the Lakeland and Winter Haven community — it’s the best of both worlds.
My background is rooted in dance, where I spent years training before going on to own a dance studio. That foundation shaped how I approach movement today—intentional, controlled, and built on strong technique. Transitioning into fitness felt like a natural evolution, and I quickly fell in love with the energy of group classes and the way they bring women together. My goal in every class is to create an experience that challenges you, builds confidence, and leaves you feeling stronger than when you walked in.

We don’t rush reps—we own them.
We shake, we sculpt, we leave better.

A fun fact about me is that outside of the studio, I’m training with my French Bulldog to compete in AKC Rally competitions.

My go-to is an iced strawberry matcha, half sweet with oat milk.

Natasha is certified in Pilates, barre, and strength training, with a background in dance and experience coaching women in both group fitness and strength-based classes.

Hi, I’m Rocio! I’m originally from Lake Wales but I’ve spent the past few years living in Boca Raton before recently moving back home from college. This makes being able to teach here even more special to me.

During college fitness became incredibly meaningful to me. Group fitness classes were something I truly leaned on during some of my hardest seasons. It helped me stay grounded both physically and mentally while teaching me the importance of intentionality. That experience is what inspired me to become an instructor.

Now, my goal is to create a space where you can show up fully as you are and remind yourself of what you’re capable of.

A fun fact about me is I’m a big coffee lover who loves to hang out at coffee shops. There’s a good chance I might be grabbing an iced latte after class!

Originally from Virginia Beach, I have been a Lakeland resident for over 20 years. Staying active has been a priority since grade school, and my personal wellness journey has been shaped by many instructors in both group and private fitness settings. Their support inspired me to pursue my own certifications in yoga and strength training. Today, I enjoy teaching others to be present and coaching them to find the healthiest versions of themselves.

Outside of the studio, I am a wife, mother, and “Lola” (grandmother). I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, paddleboarding, and sipping an Americano at the local Lucky Goat Coffee Co.

Professionally, I am an E-RYT 500, YACEP, and BC Group Fitness certified instructor. I am also the owner of Breath & Beat and an RYS (Registered Yoga School with Yoga Alliance), and I hold a B.S. in Business Administration.

Hi everyone! I’m Lexi. I’m originally from Hershey, Pennsylvania, the sweetest place on earth!

I became a Pilates instructor because I’ve always been passionate about fitness, and I love empowering women through movement. Helping women build strength, feel confident, and connect with their bodies is what inspired me to start teaching.

A fun fact about me is that I love doing photoshoots and anything creative with photography.

When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me grabbing an iced latte with honey and cinnamon or enjoying a smoothie or açaí bowl after a workout

Hi, I am Kimmy! I grew up right here in Polk County and have been living in Auburndale for most of my life. I originally got into fitness through working at the gym (was Lifestyles and now called Just Move) for almost 10 years. While working there I was very involved in fitness training and group classes. My favorite thing about classes is- you just have to show up! Everything is already planned for you- and they’re always so full of energy and fun! After being a member of BC for two years, I felt called to become an instructor to help other women share this love of fitness I have -all while helping women become stronger by becoming who they were made to be! What a gift it is to be able to move our bodies?!

A fun fact about me is that I am also a Dental Hygienist but only temp now due to being a full time Stay at home mom to Homeschool my kiddos. I love teaching people new things and seeing them grow- probably why I also love being a fitness instructor! When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me grabbing an iced protein coffee, and some granola!

Hi! I’m Suzanne! I grew up in Texas and have been living in Lakeland for 22 years. I first discovered Pilates while I was on a Broadway National Tour and needed physical therapy for dancing. I quickly started feeling stronger and fell in love with the structure and flow of this core-focused strength training.

I became an instructor because I’m passionate about helping women reconnect with their strength, build confidence, and feel energized in their bodies. I love to share my positive energy, experience and purpose for movement!

A fun fact about me is that I can be seen on national commercials and print ads. When I’m not in class, you can find me walking the lake with a friend or grabbing a hot chai latte!

Suzanne is certified in Pilates and Barre Group Fitness and has a BA in Dance from the University of Texas.

Hi, I’m Crystal! I’ve lived in Winter Haven for almost 13 years but I originally grew up in Jacksonville. When I turned 40, I discovered a whole new love for fitness and health.  I quickly felt led to pursue becoming an instructor. Experiencing my own strength and finding such an encouraging community of women made me realize this is exactly where I belong. 

Fun fact: I’m secretly a professional homebody. Comfy clothes, Netflix, and being in bed by 9 is my kind of perfect night.

Also, I’ll drink iced coffee no matter how cold it is outside… and chocolate is definitely my guilty pleasure. It’s all about balance!

Hi, I’m Jess! I found my passion for fitness through the Balance Culture community, where I spent over a year as an intern. Through that experience, I developed a strong appreciation for intentional movement, consistency, and creating a supportive, welcoming environment.

As an instructor, my goal is to help others feel confident, challenged, and encouraged in every class, no matter where they are in their fitness journey.

I am originally from Colorado, I love a good vanilla latte with cinnamon, and have been living in Winter Haven for close to two years!

Hi, I’m Keirstin! I’ve lived in Winter Haven my whole life and love being part of this community. I’ve always had a passion for fitness and a dream of becoming a personal trainer, but I never thought I’d actually turn it into something real. That all changed when I took my first class at Balance Culture—I was immediately hooked. The instructors were so welcoming, encouraging, and uplifting that I signed up for a membership right after. After about six months of being a member, I decided to take a chance on myself and follow my dream of becoming an instructor so I could help other women feel confident and reach their fitness goals. A fun fact about me is that I’m a mom to a beautiful little girl named Paislee, who keeps me busy and inspired every day. When I’m not teaching, or momming, you can usually find me at a coffee shop or with my nose in a good book!

Sabrina is an instructor at The Balance Culture. She was raised in Lakeland where she met and married her high school sweetheart. She is a mom of one son and loves spending quality time with her little family! Sabrina received her bachelors degree in business marketing from Southeastern University and later received a master’s in business administration with a concentration in executive leadership. Currently Sabrina works as a REALTOR in Lakeland with Paige Wagner Homes, which fuses her love for the city and her passion for people, processes and communication. Sabrina got her group fitness certification in 2015 and has been teaching at the Balance Culture since its launch date on September 28, 2015. Sabrina has also received instructor certifications through Barre Intensity and Mad Dogg Athletics Spinning. She has taught: bootcamp, HIIT, Barre, SPIN, yoga, Pilates, and Strength. Currently she teaches Strength weekly. Discipline, movement, and self care are areas that Sabrina is passionate about. In her classes you can expect to be challenged and encouraged! You can also expect a good playlist! She loves to motivate and bring a high-energy tone into every class. Precision in form and intentionality in efforts are elements that she strives to teach within every workout!

Hi, I’m Lexington! I’m so happy you’re here at Balance Culture. I moved to Bartow about a year ago and found this studio right away and I’ve loved it ever since my very first class. What started as a place to work out quickly became a community that means so much to me, and I’m so grateful to now be part of it as both an instructor and a friend.

I’ve always had a passion for fitness and health, especially running and pilates. I love helping people celebrate their bodies through movement and feel strong, confident, and empowered in themselves. Teaching Pilates truly brings me so much joy!

Outside of the studio, I love spending time outdoors, moving my body, and making healthy meals.

Lexington is certified through The Balance Culture Training Certification and is currently completing her 300-hour EYT Classical Pilates Teacher Training.

Hey BC, I’m Leigh-Anne. I grew up right here in Winter Haven, and moved back after I graduated from Ole Miss (hotty toddy, go rebs). In 2007, group fitness changed my life. I had never regularly worked out, but some of my friends talked me into a 6 week boot camp. I started taking regular spin and group strength classes, adding in running and weight lifting on my own as well. I’ve since run several half marathons, and continue to run, spin, and weight train daily. Over the last few years I’ve added Pilates to my daily routine, and have come to love it!

I hold a bachelors degree in Theatre Arts, and spent some time a radio DJ- I don’t think that will surprise you if you’ve ever taken my classes! Playlists are very important to me, okay!? And I love a theme. It’s my goal for you to have a good time in my classes. I truly believe if you have fun, you’ll love fitness as much as I do. When I’m not working out, I’m hanging with my family, traveling, painting, reading, singing, dancing, and generally messing around.

Hi, I’m Dakota… also known as Kota! I’m originally from Auburndale / Winter Haven!, born and raised local!! I love the energy and growth happening here, and getting to be part of a community that’s focused on becoming stronger—physically and mentally!

I got into fitness through my own journey of wanting to feel better, stronger, and more confident in my body in 2017. What started as a personal goal turned into something so much bigger. I fell in love with fitness, nutrition and leading in a way that brings women together. That’s what led me to start teaching. Now, I’m passionate about helping women build strength, discipline, and confidence—not just in the gym, but in their everyday lives.

A fun fact about me is that I’m also a nutrition coach and love all things health, growth, and personal life development. I’m big on challenging myself and others to level up in every area of life!

If you take my class, just know I’m all about pushing you while still meeting you where you’re at. You’ll be challenged, encouraged, and reminded of what you’re capable of.

My go-to coffee order is a large iced vanilla latte with oatmilk (I don’t play about my coffee), and my favorite post-workout snack is definitely street tacos or a loaded greek-yogurt bowl with tons of fruit and almond butter!

Hi!! I’m Sydney! I’m originally from Indiana, but Lakeland has been home for almost 10 years now and I truly love it so much!

I got into teaching because I fell in love with the energy of womens group fitness. There’s nothing like being in a room full of strong women pushing themselves, cheering each other on, and growing together. My heart is for you to leave class feeling stronger, more confident, and so proud of yourself every single time!!

Fun fact: I have a white golden retriever named Champion who has seizures and completely has my heart 🥹

Right now, I’m obsessed with the Starbucks lavender matcha, and if I’m not teaching, I’m probably doing something active or on the go!

I seriously can’t wait to meet you and move together!! Let’s gooo!!

Hi, I am Val! I grew up here, in Lakeland FL. I got into fitness while working on my health journey, losing over 100lbs. I decided to get into teaching because of how much it meant to me and my own journey (physical and mental). I want to show up to support other women on their own health/fitness goals.

I’m a wife, mom and stepmom. I am a licensed esthetician at EST 37! When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me on a traveling or in the salon.

Kelsey is an instructor at Balance Culture Studio teaching Pilates, cross training, and strength training classes. As a former collegiate volleyball player, she fell in love with fitness through sport and was inspired to start instructing after finishing her college career and looking for a new way to stay connected to movement.
She originally came to Lakeland for college, quickly fell in love with the community, and decided to stay. Her classes are challenging, encouraging, and focused on helping you build strength, move with intention, and feel confident in your body.

Outside of the studio, Kelsey is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma Professional and brings that same care and whole-person approach into how she connects with clients.

When she’s not teaching, you can find her spending time with her family and friends, heading to the beach, or enjoying a good movie with her go-to coffee order—a cappuccino or an americano.

Hi, I’m Angela. I was born in Hahn, Germany, and raised in Panama City, Florida. I’ve always had a passion for health and wellness, which began through sports at a young age and continued throughout my academic journey.I earned my Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Florida and went on to complete my Master’s in Physical Education and Sport Studies at the University of Georgia. During graduate school, I taught fitness classes including weight training, aerobics, and even bowling. After moving to Orlando to begin my full-time career with Disney, I also served as an adjunct professor at Valencia College for five years, teaching Fitness and Wellness courses. Around this time, I began my yoga journey. In 2014, I started consistently practicing hot power (vinyasa-style) yoga, which eventually inspired me to deepen my practice through teacher training. I became a certified yoga instructor in 2019. While I initially didn’t plan to teach, after COVID and the birth of my daughter, I felt called to return to my passion for health and wellness through yoga. As an instructor, I truly enjoy watching my students grow—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.A fun fact about me: I’ve visited 4 continents, 16 countries, and 21 states. While I don’t travel as much these days, you can often find me exploring the world at EPCOT with my 5-year-old daughter. And like many parents, I’ve developed a love for coffee—you’ll usually find me stopping by a local coffee shop after my Saturday morning yoga class.