We are so fortunate to have so many incredible coaches, so we wanted to start giving them a more in depth introduction so you all can learn more about their backgrounds and what they love about teaching! This week we’re interviewing Coach Syd!
- Interviewer: Can you share a bit about your journey—how did you get started in teaching?
Syd: Movement has always been a huge part of my life. I did gymnastics from the ages of 2-12, earning two state titles on bars and one on floor. After quitting gymnastics, I became a dancer for 8 years, training at the pre-professional level with studios like Northwest Dance Project and Open Space Dance. During my journey as a dancer, I specialized in ballet and contemporary dance, and was awarded a scholarship by The Nashville Ballet. I was introduced to the circus world when I met Stefan Furst, who inspired me to join his circus program. I found acro dance through instagram, and have been teaching myself this discipline for 3 years. My teaching journey started here at Superhero Fitness almost a year ago!
- Interviewer: Have you had any mentors or key influences that shaped your coaching and teaching style?
Syd: Absolutely. My first dance teacher, Franco Nieto, and my former circus coach Stefan play a huge role in my teaching approach. Francos teaching style is playful and non-traditional, which made learning stress-free and fun. Stefan on the other hand, has extensive knowledge about the human body and various movement disciplines. Their Influence has inspired me to approach teaching in a way that blends creativity, technical precision, and a deep understanding of movement mechanics.
- Interviewer: What classes do you currently teach, and who are they designed for?
Syd: I currently teach a couple classes that are perfect for various levels
- Acro dance / Gymnastics Dance – This class is beginner-friendly on Sundays and moves to an intermediate level on Wednesdays. It’s designed for anyone looking to explore a fusion of dance and gymnastics.
- Circus Strength – While primarily tailored for circus artists, this class is also perfect for anyone wanting to build functional strength and body awareness. It focuses on intentional movement and strengthening key areas necessary for various disciplines, including aerial, handstands, and dance.
- Interviewer: What goals or outcomes can students expect from your classes?
Syd: My classes offer more than just exercise—they help students develop body awareness, cross-train for other movement practices, and experience movement in new ways. Circus Strength, in particular, is focused on targeted exercises that build strength for multiple disciplines. Whether you’re an aerialist, a dancer, or just someone looking to move differently, you’ll get a well balanced full workout in this class!
- Interviewer: How would you describe your teaching style in three words?
Syd: Intentional, creative, and open.
- Interviewer: How do you tailor your approach to meet the needs of different individuals or groups?
Syd: All the skills I teach have beginner friendly progressions that I will apply if I see that someone needs it! I do my best to make all the skills as accessible as possible.
- Interviewer: What sets your classes apart from others in the field?
Syd: There are not many acro dance classes in Portland, which makes the class itself very unique. To add to that, my high-level training in dance and gymnastics combined with the independent way I learned acro dance gives me a very well rounded perspective on teaching.
- Interviewer: Can you share a favorite success story or a moment you’re particularly proud of in your career?
Syd: One of my students had been struggling to achieve an aerial for a long time. On her very first class with me she was able to get it on the floor! Seeing her excitement and confidence grow in that moment was incredibly rewarding.
- Interviewer: What’s your favorite part of teaching and coaching?
Syd: I love facilitating those “aha” moments—when I give one small piece of feedback suddenly makes everything click for a student. That instant understanding and breakthrough makes teaching so fulfilling.
- Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone considering taking one of your classes for the first time?
Syd: Come with an open mind and no expectations! Often times we expect less of ourselves than what we are actually capable of! Be ready to surprise yourself 🙂
