Meet The Instructors

MetCon Instructor

Lily Padovan

Hey everyone! I’m Lily, one of your MetCon instructor! Years ago, my own fitness journey started with taking group classes, where I fell in love with the motivation and energy that a small gym community gave me. That supportive environment is what inspired me to become a group instructor myself! I started out as a coach at F45, where I specialized in HIIT-style classes. Now, I’m here at York, ready to bring you an amazing class experience! If you’re looking to push past your limits, connect with new friends, and stay motivated, come give our classes a try—I promise, you won’t regret it!

MetCon Instructor

Mohammad Ghorbanalivakili

Hey, I’m Mohammad, one of your MetCon instructors! I began my fitness journey in 2021, transforming my lifestyle to overcome challenges with binge eating and build a balanced approach to health and fitness. In my class, you’ll get a mix of full-body resistance, cardio, and stretch exercises designed to burn lots of calories and tone you up from head to toe. With multiple options for every fitness level, you’re free to push your limits or go at your own pace as you build confidence. I’ll be right there for you, offering guidance and motivation, making sure you’re getting the most out of every minute. Together, we’ll build power, endurance, and flexibility, and expand your exercise toolkit so you feel ready to take on the gym solo. Let’s take those small steps forward, week by week, to a stronger, more confident you. Come join us! 

Afro-Dance and Zumba Instructor

Sharon Obioma

Get ready to groove with Sharon Obioma, your go-to Afro dance instructor! Born and raised in Nigeria, Sharon brings the heat with her high-energy classes, infectious beats, and signature African moves, bringing them into her Zumba classes as well. Join the party and let's dance! With her warm and encouraging teaching style, Sharon welcomes dancers of all levels and backgrounds to experience the joy of Afro dance.

Yoga Instructor

Raiza Chaudhary

Hello! I’m delighted to welcome you to Yoga Retreat. My name is Raiza, and my yoga journey began as a personal exploration of physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Certified in yoga from India, I have taught for over three years, driven by a deep passion for helping others enhance their well-being. With a double degree in biology and psychology from YorkU, I approach yoga from both a scientific and holistic perspective. I believe in the transformative power of yoga to foster health and spiritual growth, and I strive to create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable exploring their unique path. What I love most about teaching is witnessing the healing energy that arises when we come together as a community. I am here to support your journey, so please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to chat about yoga. Let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery together!

Yoga Instructor

Hayley Carr

Hayley is a dedicated and innovative yoga instructor with a deep passion for learning. After years of practice, she earned her yoga teacher certification at the Yoga Sanctuary in 2015 and has been sharing her knowledge with students of all ages and skill levels ever since. Hayley offers yoga, meditation, Pilates, theater, and movement classes for various organizations throughout the city. Additionally, she develops curriculum for teacher training programs to help aspiring instructors with their journey to become a teacher of children's yoga and dance.

Introduced to yoga and meditation at a young age as warm-up techniques by her dance and theater instructors, Hayley's background as a performer influences her classes, making them playful and expressive. She aims to empower her students to recognize that they are their best teachers, with her role being to inspire exploration and curiosity.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor

Val Ostanov

- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, 3rd Degree
-25+ Years of Wrestling

-25+ Years of experience teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and Self-Defense.

Ballet Instructor

Lilia Karpuzlular

Hi, I’m Lilia! I’ve spent over 10 years immersed in dance, with professional experience in ballet, contemporary, musical theatre, and character dance. For me, dance is more than movement—it’s a powerful form of self-expression and a path to physical and mental well-being.

In my coaching, I focus on strong foundations: posture, warm-ups, stretching, and injury prevention, while keeping it fun and motivating. Whether you're a beginner or refining your technique, I offer supportive, constructive feedback to help you grow, gain confidence, and connect more deeply with yourself through movement.

Let’s train both body and mind to great music—and enjoy the journey of self-discovery together!

Muay Thai Instructor

Asma Hassan

Hi, I am Coach Asma. I discovered Muay Thai after years of searching for something, I felt connected to, that made me feel stronger and more confident. Muay Thai surely changed my life - the mental and physical transformation I experienced inspired me to help other women do the same.

Now, I am dedicated to creating a space where women of all levels can build strength, confidence, resilience, and a wonderful community together. Whether you are just starting or refining your skills, I am here to train, support and guide you. Let’s learn the beautiful art of Muay Thai and grow stronger together—physically and mentally!

Yoga Instructor

Lambert Sanchez Jr.

I am a certified yoga instructor with over eight years of teaching experience. I specialize in Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa, and Yin Yoga. Additionally, I am a certified meditation and Reiki practitioner. My teaching philosophy emphasizes intuition and individuality. I encourage students to focus on how their practice feels rather than how it looks, fostering a deep connection between the mind and body. Using the breath as a bridge, I aim to help my students cultivate harmony and presence within themselves.

I believe yoga is for everyone, regardless of experience or ability, and I strive to create a welcoming environment where students feel empowered to explore and grow. I look forward to sharing the transformative practice of yoga with you.

MetCon Instructor

Alice Saunders

Bio in progress...

Spin Instructor

Caroline Ritchie

Hi, I'm Caroline Ritchie!
I've been a certified spin instructor since 2017, with a background in personal training and group fitness. From 2020 to 2023, I taught spin classes at York University while completing my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science, and I’m excited to be back teaching again during my PhD.

My classes are designed to be both approachable and energizing—whether you're brand new to spin or a seasoned rider. I believe in creating a motivating environment where every participant feels challenged, supported, and empowered to push their limits at their own pace. Let's ride!

Line Dance Instructor

Yigal Bruk

Howdy, Yorku! My name is Yigal, I am a mature student studying neuroscience. If you've ever been interested in trying line dancing, I encourage you to attend my lessons, regardless of your experience or skill level. While I primarily specialize in line dancing, I also enjoy ballroom jive, country two-step, and cumbia. Some of my other interests and passions include: golf, soccer, cycling, reading, and studying! Come on down to the ‘ol York Saloon and join me for some fun line dancing!