Meet the Momentum Fit Incorporated Team

Encounter the fitness professionals dedicated to assisting you in reaching your goals.

Our Coaches

Marie Merritt

Founder

In 2005, Marie embarked on a life-changing mission - to empower individuals to take control of their health and live fulfilling lives filled with movement and freedom. Her vision was simple yet profound: by helping people move better, they would move more, rediscovering the joy of an active life.

Driven by her passion and fueled by continuous learning, Marie earned her prestigious National Board Certification for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBC-HWC) through the NBHWC in 2022. This rigorous certification signifies Marie’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in the field, ensuring her clients receive the most informed and effective guidance on their wellness journeys. As Marie’s vision evolved, so did her team. Together, they built Momentum, a welcoming space where individuals are invited to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Here, they can work on their physical and mental well-being, be present in the moment, and receive invaluable support from a compassionate and knowledgeable team. At Momentum, the philosophy is simple yet powerful – “building bodies from the inside out.” They understand that true health encompasses not just physical fitness but also optimal nutrition and a supportive environment. By emphasizing the crucial role of nutrition in performance, recovery, and overall well-being, Momentum ensures each program is holistically tailored to individual needs. Empowerment is the cornerstone of Momentum’s approach. They believe in guiding clients to discover their own intrinsic motivations and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to make sustainable lifestyle changes. This client-centered focus ensures that every individual feels supported and empowered throughout their wellness journey. Momentum is more than just a fitness center; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a space where clients can shed the outside world’s distractions and focus wholly on their goals and aspirations. Here, they are free to explore their potential, discover their strength, and ultimately, achieve the vibrant, fulfilling life they deserve. With Marie’s unwavering dedication and the supportive team at Momentum, countless individuals have embarked on transformative journeys and discovered the joy of a life filled with health, movement, and freedom. Their story is an inspiring testament to the power of passion, knowledge, and a supportive community in facilitating positive change and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

Klodi Musaj

Coach

MS, CSCS
Klodi isn't just a trainer; he's a maestro of movement, connection, and motivation. His superpower is evident in every interaction: genuine kindness, a captivating smile, and a passion for empowering individuals to move better.

Whether he’s guiding a client through a challenging workout or sharing a warm conversation, Klodi’s genuine care and infectious enthusiasm fill the gym. But Klodi’s expertise goes far beyond mere charisma. He holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, equipping him with a deep understanding of the human body and its response to training. Additionally, he’s a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS*), a prestigious credential that signifies his advanced knowledge and ability to design effective programs for various fitness goals and populations. This distinction assures clients that they are under the guidance of a highly qualified professional who prioritizes their safety and success. For Klodi, fitness is more than just building muscle or achieving a specific physique. It’s about creating a sustainable, enjoyable journey towards self-discovery and well-being. He empowers each client with the knowledge and tools to move with confidence and freedom, both within the gym walls and beyond. With over a decade of experience at Momentum, Klodi has become a cornerstone of the community. His dedication to education ensures his clients are equipped to make informed choices and navigate their fitness journey independently. He transforms the often-intimidating world of fitness into a space of fun, encouragement, and personalized support. Klodi’s passion for helping individuals achieve their best extends beyond the physical realm. He believes in fostering a sense of community and belonging, creating a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their potential and reaching their full potential. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, working with Klodi is an experience that transcends mere physical training. It’s a journey towards self-empowerment, guided by a compassionate expert who believes in the transformative power of movement and connection.

Marquis Edwards

Coach

BS, CSCS*, LMT, ART
Marquis is more than just a trainer; he's a master of movement, healing, and empowerment. His superpower lies in his compassionate nature, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering belief in the human body's potential.

You can typically find him in the gym, working alongside clients, guiding them to surpass their perceived limitations and unlock their full physical capabilities. But Marquis is not just passionate about physical fitness; he is a dedicated healthcare professional. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Health focusing on Kinesiology, granting him a deep understanding of human anatomy and movement mechanics. This knowledge, coupled with his licensure as a Massage Therapist (LMT MA 102507) and certification in Active Release Techniques (ART), makes him a uniquely qualified expert in treating pain, improving mobility, and optimizing athletic performance. Marquis’s expertise allows him to create safe and effective training programs specifically designed for young athletes. He understands the unique needs of growing bodies and tailors his approach to help them develop proper movement patterns and optimize their athletic potential. Additionally, his experience in treating post-rehabilitative injuries enables him to design programs that promote healing, recovery, and a safe return to activity. Marquis believes that movement is essential for optimal health and well-being. By combining his fitness and massage therapy expertise, he helps clients achieve their physical goals but also experience relief from pain, improve their overall well-being, and unlock their full potential for a fulfilling and active life. Marquis Edwards is not just a trainer but a multifaceted professional dedicated to empowering his clients to unlock their full potential. His expertise in movement science, his passion for healing, and his meticulous attention to detail make him a unique and valuable resource for anyone seeking to optimize their health and well-being through movement.

Cathy Smallwood

Coach

Empowering Group Fitness and Building Community Cathy Smallwood, NASM CPT, embodies the belief that progress, not perfection, is the key to a fulfilling fitness journey. Her motto, "It's not about being the BEST, it's about being BETTER than you were yesterday!"

Reflects her dedication to helping individuals reach their full potential, one step at a time. Cathy’s true power lies in her ability to ignite the spark of motivation within groups. Her infectious energy and engaging presence create an atmosphere of empowerment and encouragement, where individuals push their limits and celebrate their progress together. With over a decade as part of the Momentum community, Cathy has witnessed countless transformations. Her passion lies in helping people move their bodies in ways they never thought possible, fostering a love for movement and a positive association with the gym experience. Beyond her technical expertise as a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Cathy’s impact extends to the very fabric of the community. Her unwavering willingness to help others creates a warm and supportive environment, where everyone feels valued and motivated to reach their goals. A workout with Cathy is more than just a physical experience; it’s an opportunity for growth, laughter, and connection. You’re guaranteed to leave feeling energized, challenged, and empowered to continue your journey towards a healthier and happier you. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, a workout with Cathy Smallwood is an investment in your physical and emotional well-being. Her passion, expertise, and genuine care will guide you on your journey towards a healthier and happier you.

Cortney Welch

Coach

BS, CSCS
"Nothing will work unless you do." This Maya Angelou quote isn't just a mantra for Cortney Welch-it's the heartbeat of her coaching philosophy. Since starting her journey with Momentum Fit as an intern in 2019, Cortney has been a vibrant, driving force in the lives of clients looking to build strength, confidence, and a sustainable relationship with movement.

Cortney’s passion for fitness is rooted in her lifelong involvement in sports and her desire to help others experience what’s possible when they take ownership of their health. She believes that fitness can be a powerful catalyst for change, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Her approach is deeply personal, grounded in her own journey of recovering from an ACL injury and learning to train with intention, patience, and resilience.

Her true superpower? Meeting people exactly where they are. Cortney has an innate ability to tune in to individual needs, creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen, empowered, and capable. Whether she’s coaching a young athlete, a busy professional, or an 87-year-old working on functional movement, Cortney tailors every program with care, expertise, and a joyful spirit.

Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (CSCS), Cortney also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross. Her programs are not only effective-they’re science-backed, progressive, and designed to support long-term growth and well-being.

But what truly sets Cortney apart is the way she coaches. Her infectious joy, genuine warmth, and deep compassion make her more than a trainer-she’s a trusted guide, accountability partner, and source of encouragement on even the hardest days. She understands that movement is more than reps and sets; it’s about clarity, connection, and coming home to your body.

Outside the gym, Cortney stays active by hiking, paddleboarding, collecting shark teeth, and running with her dogs. She’s always up for trying new sports, and yes-she can absolutely crush a pistol squat. Her personal goals include maintaining a strong muscle-to-fat ratio and continuing to explore all the ways movement can enrich life.

If you’re ready to feel stronger, more confident, and more connected to your body, Cortney is the kind of coach who will walk beside you every step of the way-with expertise, empathy, and just the right amount of challenge.

Loanna Diaz

Coach

NSCA CPT, GGS Pre & Postnatal Specialist
Loanna embodies the belief that motivation is the spark, but habit is the fuel that drives lasting change. She ignites a passion for fitness in women, particularly those navigating the transformative journey of motherhood, using exercise as her powerful tool.

With a strong foundation in science and movement, Loanna holds the prestigious National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential. This certification signifies her proficiency in exercise design, program development, and safety protocols, ensuring she delivers effective and personalized training plans tailored to individual needs. But Loanna’s expertise extends beyond general fitness. As a GGS Pre & Postnatal Specialist, she possesses a deep understanding of the unique physiological and emotional changes women experience during pregnancy and postpartum. This specialized knowledge allows her to design safe and effective exercise programs that address the specific needs of this population, helping women regain strength, flexibility, and confidence while navigating this transformative period. Loanna’s approach to fitness is not solely focused on aesthetics; it’s about empowering women to feel strong, capable, and confident in their own bodies. She believes that health and well-being are attainable at any stage of life, and she guides her clients towards building a solid foundation for a healthier future. Loanna’s dedication to women’s health and her unwavering support have made her a trusted and respected member of the Momentum community. Whether you’re a pregnant woman seeking guidance or simply someone looking to improve your overall fitness, Loanna will guide you with expertise, compassion, and a genuine desire to see you succeed.

Kent Campbell

Coach

BS, CSCS*, USAW L1, CF-L2
Kent lives by the wisdom of Theodore Roosevelt: "Comparison is the thief of joy." He approaches health and wellness with a refreshing focus on personal growth and the inherent joy of movement, dispelling the notion of fitness as a grueling competition.

Kent’s passion for helping others is evident in his every interaction. He brings a genuine kindness and warmth to his work, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their potential and embracing a healthier lifestyle. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree and the prestigious Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS*) credential from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Kent possesses a deep understanding of exercise physiology, program design, and injury prevention. This distinction assures clients that they are receiving the highest quality of care and guidance. But Kent’s expertise extends beyond the world of general fitness. He holds a Level 1 Certification from USA Weightlifting, demonstrating his proficiency in teaching and coaching Olympic weightlifting techniques. This allows him to help individuals of all skill levels develop proper technique, build strength, and enhance athletic performance. Kent’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: health and wellness should be fun! He believes that the journey to becoming stronger, more resilient, and pain-free should be enjoyable and enriching. He encourages his clients to celebrate their progress, embrace challenges with a positive attitude, and rediscover the joy of moving their bodies. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall fitness, manage pain, enhance athletic performance, or simply rediscover the joy of movement, Kent Campbell is here to guide you with expertise, compassion, and a contagious enthusiasm for health and well-being.

Melissa Hartman

Coach

MS, ACSM-EP
Melissa Hartman lives by a simple but powerful truth: fitness is a process, not a product. With a deep-rooted belief that movement is medicine, she brings over 25 years of experience in injury care, recovery, and personal transformation to every session, along with a sharp clinical eye and a whole lot of heart.

Melissa began her career as an athletic trainer, working hands-on to prevent and rehabilitate injuries in athletes. But it was her passion for helping everyday people feel good in their bodies again that drew her to personal training. Since then, she’s helped hundreds of clients-from those recovering from surgery or injury to those chasing milestone birthdays-find strength, freedom, and confidence through movement.

Her approach is practical, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. She believes in meeting clients exactly where they are, whether they’re easing back into fitness or ready to push limits. As someone who’s personally experienced what it’s like to feel broken, weak, and unsure, she never loses sight of how powerful it is to feel better than you did yesterday.

Melissa’s clients come to her for more than physical results-they come for the life-changing outcomes: being able to travel again, sleep better, play with their grandkids, or climb stairs without pain. They trust her not only because of her expertise but because she gets it. She sees their potential before they do-and helps them reach it, one step at a time.

With a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and certification as an Exercise Physiologist from the American College of Sports Medicine, Melissa is an expert in adapting programs for all ability levels. She specializes in injury recovery and movement modification, helping clients safely progress no matter their starting point.

At Momentum Fit, she’s known for her sharp intuition, her straight-shooting kindness, and her ability to celebrate small wins that lead to big changes. Whether it’s helping a client do her first push-up in 20 years or train for her 50th birthday, Melissa shows up for it all.

Outside the gym, Melissa stays active with spinning, going for beach walks, and shell-hunting. She’s a lifelong fan of college football, and she trains with the same goal she gives to her clients: to stay strong, stay mobile, and stay true to herself.

Katie Bolte

Coach

NASM-CPT
Drawing wisdom from Buddha's timeless words, 'To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear'. Katie embodies the profound impact of fitness on the holistic self.

Her belief resonates deeply in the holistic benefits of movement, reaching far beyond physical appearance to encompass mental clarity, emotional resilience, and an unwavering sense of confidence. As a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT), Katie harnesses her expertise to craft bespoke exercise programs tailored to individual needs and aspirations. Her approach transcends traditional fitness paradigms, weaving a potent connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Katie champions movement as a transformative force that fortifies the body and nurtures inner strength and self-respect. She firmly believes that investing in our physical health reaps manifold rewards, fostering enhanced mental focus, stress reduction, and an overarching sense of empowerment. When physical fitness converges with mental clarity, Katie Bolte stands as your ideal guide. With her expertise, compassion, and unwavering faith in the transformative power of movement, she paves the way for your journey to a healthier, happier self, empowering you to unlock your full potential.

Blayne Zaleski

Coach

Meet Blayne Zaleski, a dedicated professional steeped in the world of health and fitness. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health with a specialized focus on Kinesiology, Blayne's academic foundation delves deep into the mechanics and principles governing human movement, anatomy, and exercise physiology.

His expertise is further fortified by esteemed certifications, including ACSM-EP (American College of Sports Medicine – Exercise Physiologist), NCSF PT (National Council on Strength and Fitness – Personal Trainer), and USAPL coach (United States of America Powerlifting Coach). These qualifications collectively epitomize a commitment to comprehensive understanding, application, and innovation within the realm of fitness and wellness. Blayne’s professional journey embodies a rich tapestry of experiences. From mentoring elite athletes at the pinnacle of their performance to providing rehabilitative support for stroke survivors navigating their path to recovery and assisting individuals from diverse backgrounds striving for holistic wellness, his breadth of exposure underscores a profound inclusivity and personalized approach to health and fitness. This diverse background has cultivated within Blayne a steadfast belief that health and fitness are intrinsic rights accessible to all individuals, irrespective of their initial fitness level or background. His mission transcends conventional training approaches. Blayne aims to empower individuals to surpass self-imposed limitations through meticulously curated, evidence-based functional strength training programs. His methodology extends far beyond immediate fitness objectives; it’s about instilling enduring lifestyle changes that yield sustained, long-term benefits. Blayne’s guiding principle emphasizes that each exercise, each meticulously crafted session, contributes not merely to immediate physical gains but also to cultivating a life teeming with vitality and resilience across all facets. Enlisting Blayne as your personal trainer isn’t solely about physical transformation; it’s about embracing a holistic journey towards robust health and well-being. His expertise and an unwavering commitment to your progress ensure a path where dedication, perseverance, and triumph converge to sculpt a life enriched with strength and wellness.

Mackenzie Perttu

Coach

Every result is a lagging measure of the habits that precede them," -James Clear, Mackenzie believes in the transformative power of consistent effort and the support of a strong community.

Her educational journey has been instrumental in shaping her approach to health and wellness. She holds a Master’s degree in Kinesiology, which provided a rigorous foundation in human movement, exercise physiology, and biomechanics. This knowledge base allows Mackenzie to design safe and effective training programs for individuals at all fitness levels.

However, her thirst for knowledge doesn’t stop there. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Kinesiology, which delves deeper into the science behind exercise prescription, injury prevention, and performance optimization. This ongoing pursuit allows her to stay at the forefront of the field, constantly adapting her methods to incorporate the latest research and best practices.

Beyond academics, Mackenzie is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS). This certification emphasizes functional movement patterns, ensuring that her clients achieve their fitness goals and develop a strong foundation for overall health and well-being.

Her experience spans the community. She has worked with athletes of various ages and backgrounds, mainly specializing in basketball, volleyball, soccer, and softball/baseball, as well as everyday humans who are athletes of life.

But Mackenzie’s most rewarding aspect isn’t just witnessing physical transformations. It’s the connection she builds with each client. Celebrating milestones together and fostering accountability within the supportive community we create-that’s where her true passion lies.

Mackenzie is here to guide and partner with you in achieving a healthier, happier life. Let’s invest in your well-being, one step (or rep!) at a time.

Alejandro Navarro

Coach

MS, ACSM-EP
Alejandro Navarro's approach to fitness is deeply rooted in purpose: helping people live longer, move better, and feel more confident in their bodies, not just for today, but for years to come.

Originally drawn to physical therapy, Alejandro spent time in rehab clinics guiding patients through their recovery journeys. But the deeper he got, the more he realized he wanted to walk with clients long after rehab ended-to be part of their progress, not just through injury, but through life. That realization sparked a shift in 2022, leading him to personal training and a mission to empower people through movement.

With a Master’s degree in Kinesiology and Lifestyle Medicine and certification as an ACSM Exercise Physiologist, Alejandro blends a strong clinical foundation with a highly personal, case-by-case training approach. He takes the time to understand each client’s story-their goals, limitations, and motivations-then builds a program that supports steady, sustainable progress. His philosophy? Start where you are, grow from there.

Clients trust Alejandro not just for his technical knowledge, especially when it comes to cardiac recovery and injury adaptation, but for his ability to see them. Whether it’s the client who can now do 10 push-ups and work on his truck again, or the one who went from shy and discouraged to strong and self-assured, Alejandro lives for those transformations.

To him, fitness isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about protecting your health so you can show up for your family, chase your goals, and enjoy the life you’ve built.

When he’s not training, you’ll find Alejandro walking with his wife, playing in his adult soccer league, or soaking up the sun. Born in Venezuela and raised in the U.S., he learned English by immersion in school-a testament to his quiet grit and adaptability.

Whether you’re building back from injury, getting back in shape, or starting from scratch, Alejandro is here to help you move better, feel stronger, and thrive-one session at a time.

Matt Burns

Coach

Matt Burns is a dedicated fitness professional with over 16 years of experience helping clients achieve their health and wellness goals. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification, Matt brings a deep understanding of human movement and personalized training to every session. Matt's passion lies in making fitness accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

He believes that reaching your fitness goals shouldn’t be a struggle, and he’s committed to creating customized programs that are both effective and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to improve your cardiovascular health, build strength, or simply feel better in your body, Matt’s expertise and personalized approach will guide you towards success.

With a focus on corrective exercise, Matt specializes in helping clients:

Address pain and discomfort: By identifying and correcting movement patterns that contribute to pain, Matt helps clients reduce discomfort and improve overall function.

Improve performance: Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply want to feel more energetic in your daily life, Matt’s training programs can help you achieve your goals.

Prevent injuries: By strengthening and stabilizing key muscle groups, Matt helps clients reduce their risk of injuries and stay active.

Matt’s dedication to his clients is evident in the smiles he sees on their faces when they achieve their goals. He believes that fitness is more than just physical results; it’s about improving overall well-being and quality of life.

Qyler Gunning

Coach

MS, CSCS

For Qyler Gunning, strength and conditioning isn't just a profession-it's a personal mission rooted in lived experience. A former student-athlete, Qyler knows firsthand the gap that can exist between talent and preparation. After navigating his own challenges coming off an injury, he made it his purpose to help athletes bridge that gap-not only to compete at the next level, but to thrive long after the game is over.

That purpose has taken him from high school sidelines to Division I and II programs, where he’s coached and programmed for sports including women’s basketball, men’s soccer, and lacrosse. Before fully stepping into the strength and conditioning world, Qyler also coached high school football, girls’ basketball, and track and field throwers-building a wide-angle understanding of athletic development and team culture. Most recently, he served as Interim Head Strength Coach and Director of Sports Performance at two NCAA Division II universities.

Now at Momentum Fit, Qyler blends his high-level experience with a grounded, relatable style that meets every athlete where they are-whether they’re aspiring to play college ball or simply learning how to move with strength and intention.

Qyler’s training philosophy centers on what actually carries over to sport and life: ground-based, multi-joint, and three-dimensional movements. His programs emphasize strength, mobility, and body control-built around the idea that training should support performance now and functional movement for years to come. He also understands the underappreciated role of nutrition and rehabilitation in an athlete’s progress, drawing from his own experience managing a meniscus injury and cutting body fat with long-term health in mind.

But what truly sets Qyler apart is his deep investment in his clients. He wants training to be something athletes want to do-not something they feel they have to do. His favorite success stories aren’t just about numbers; they’re about athletes moving with better form, pushing past previous limits, and walking away with more belief in themselves.

Qyler holds a Master of Science degree and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA. He also holds credentials from Precision Nutrition (PN1), NASM-PES, and Functional Range Conditioning (FRC-ms), and is affiliated with leading organizations like the NSCA, NASM, and the American Red Cross.

When he’s not coaching, Qyler’s usually hanging with his pup, experimenting in the kitchen (he’ll take recipes, but no pie-unless it’s pizza), or diving into ways to keep getting better-because for him, progress never stops.

Advanced Gym Equipment

Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with versatile equipment to maximize your results. We offer a variety of training options, including resistance training with Freemotion cable machines, squat racks, dumbbells, and barbells, as well as functional fitness with medicine balls, plyo boxes, and kettlebells. Our commitment to providing top-notch equipment and expert guidance ensures that you’ll achieve your fitness and mobility goals.

Unique Features and Facilities

Momentum Fit is your premier personal training studio in Ponte Vedra Beach. Our spacious, state-of-the-art facility is designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. We offer personalized training plans, assisted stretching, and relaxing massage therapy and Active Release Technique sessions. Our expert trainers are committed to providing a supportive and motivating environment to help you reach your full potential.

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