Topic/Presentations: The Bannister Method at DCAC August, 2009

"I attended your Sunday session at DCAC and was blown away by your Balance, Strength, Flexibility and Core workout. I am interested in getting trained in your Method for myself and for my clients. I am a certified Pilates Mat and Equipment trainer. I have paid lots of money and attended countless workshops over the years to learn and maybe get certified to teach various exercise regimens but nothing has really stood out until your Sunday workshop. I haven't stopped thinking about it. Please let me know if there is any chance of learning more from you. I am located in Washington, DC metro area but could come to NY if you have upcoming workshops or training sessions. Thanks so much!"

– Eileen Vogel

Topic/Presentations: Re-birth of step workshop, DCAC August, 2009

"I attended your rebirth of step workshop at the DCAC convention on Thursday. I wanted to take your Saturday workshop but I could't get it into my schedule (I've got a 6 month old miserable teething baby at home that I needed to tend to)!

I wanted to catch you at the convention to let you know that your breakdown of the music and your honest and straight up approach to teaching really impacted me.

Yesterday I rehearsed with the salsa dance company I am in and the director said he felt like I was experiencing the choreography in a whole new way and that I was finally dancing as he's been asking me to.

I taught a basic step class on Saturday morning and it was awesome. I can say with complete honesty that I SUCKED as a step instructor. I totally SUCKED. I had no idea how to build choreography, wasn't connecting to the music, the classes felt disjointed, etc. My classes since your workshop are literally on a whole new level of fluidity. I enjoy it more and my students clearly sense the smoother transitions and connection to the music.

Personally, I am very emotional about music and passionate about dance. Knowing the music structure inside and out as you taught us feels like I have opened a box that will take my dancing to another level. I feel like I am experiencing each song with such depth. I can't express to you how life changing that workshop was!

The rest of the convention and lectures were kind-of a waste of time. They were informative, yes. But--your lecture and personality inspired me, impressed me, and you opened me up to music in a whole new way. When I studied Afro-Cuban dance in Cuba years ago I had an instructor tell me that the dance should be as though the ocean is crashing through your body with each isolation. Of course, I couldn't do it as he was asking and he would just break out laughing as he watched me try to get it. Now when I'm dancing I understand the feeling of the music getting into your bones and working it's way out in your steps. And, I feel like I get what that instructor was trying to have me experience. This morning I was driving along listening to a song and I really heard all the instruments as they came in, violins, trumpets, drums.....every piece and it was so awesome to connect to the music at that depth--it brought tears to my eyes.

Also, I appreciate you talking to us about dealing with the divas in class. I realize that in my dance classes at the gym, I cater too much to the divas and don't watch the back rows enough. Now when I'm piecing together choreography I am thinking about the measure, the top of the 32, and how to make it fun and accessible to the back row girls and the divas in the front.

I think you have probably totally changed the way I instruct and given me guidelines that will help take my classes to a whole new level. I hope I see you at upcoming workshops and again, thank you so much."

– Tiffany Ana


Topic/Presentations: The Bannister Method at DCAC August, 2009

"I attended the final workshop on Sunday, Aug 8 with you. I worked hard all day Friday, Saturday, and part of Sunday before attending you class. I entered your class tired, stiff, and a little droopy. I was the woman in front with a green shirt on with very flexible hamstrings (if you remember). I left class feeling like a new woman. Most of my aches and pain were gone, and I was re-energized. Thank you for that.

I have a question about what makes the Bannister method different from other disciplines? Also, I would be interested in purchasing a book, DVD, whatever you have that outlines the movements we did in class on Sunday, along with others you use."

Thank you for your time.

– Trish Bierlich


Topic/Group Exercise Classes

"I have had the pleasure of knowing Gail for over 15 years and know her to be well respected within the fitness field. Gail actively keeps herself involved, networking, teaching and providing a valuable service to both the fitness consumer and fitness industry community. As a provider within the professional fitness community; Gail imparts her knowledge and experience willingly and helps those she comes in contact with. Gail also teaches classes and workshops to consumers that help energize and maximize the results they desire. Her passion is evident. It is a pleasure to know Gail and know her to have such a positive impact within the fitness industry."

– Susan Kasper

“I've been taking classes with Gail for almost 3 years now. I've never met someone so in-the-know about her job & the constant changes that go along with it. Gail is passionate and so enthusiastic about every class she teaches, whether it be yoga fusion, ball conditioning, or body wedge. All of her classes are inventive, challenging, and most of all fun! I HATE having to miss her classes because besides the workout, I always learn something new. Not only does Gail teach her classes well, but she provides her students with important lifestyle, exercise, and diet information too. She's got a great personality that inspires and motivates all who take her classes. She is a great asset to XSport Fitness and we're extremely lucky to have her with us!"

– Mariessa Tan

As a veteran of many gyms and classes offered, I can say with absolute certainty that Gail is the most knowledgeable, caring, energizing instructor I have ever encountered. Gail is 100% committed to her students -- she has taught (full-out) with a sprained ankle, and after undergoing painful dental work. She is constantly encouraging her student body to strive toward their personal best, and updating her knowledge so as to remain on the cutting edge of innovation. When I first began taking Gail's classes, I was mourning the loss of someone very special to me, and was overwhelmed with sadness. Gail's classes literally brought me back to life...and I will be ever grateful to her for that.

– Danielle Montanos

You are a phenomenal instructor, truly a master of you craft. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday without fail I am either in your cardio dance jam or step class. I purposely do not plan anything that will interfere with my work. I appreciate your phenomenal instruction, patience and technique. I admire the way you get to know the individuals that attend your class. Not only are you energetic, but you set standards demanding that everyone work up to their potential. Interestingly enough your drive, music, and outstanding instruction have motivated me to make exercising a major part of my lifestyle.

– Yvonne Vidal

I really enjoy your classes and I am a big fan of yours!! I love your teaching techniques and your energy. Enjoy your step class (hated step before attending your class) and step jam (my favorite). You're more than just an instructor, you have become a friend who cares about my physical health. I'm also a fan of your music selections. Your music keeps me and the other members pumped and hyped!!

– Karen – DJ Passion

Gail, Is the most motivated dedicate instructor/coach I have met since my track coach back in college. Her knowledge of body, muscle and mechanics is unsurpassed. Her energy is boundless - come to the 7.30 pm Tuesday class after she has taught 2 previous classes and you will see what I mean.

And yet Gail takes the time and patience to work with you whether you are a professional athlete or (and here is the great part) a person who is very overweight or out of condition to help you achieve your goals. She certainly keeps me on track and is helping me achieve my fitness goals.

And did I say “Funny,” as in, she is funny and the class is fun but it‘s not Yoga!

– Laurence M. Carolan