Nathalie was born and raised in Belgium, and for as long as she can remember, has always loved to share smiles, help others, and spread kindness. She is passionate about anything related to physical and mental wellness, personal growth, and empowerment. She strongly believes that music, movement, and community nurture the connection between mind, body and soul.
During a summer internship in Michigan in 1997, she discovered her passion for group fitness, particularly step aerobics, and has been a fitness enthusiast ever since. After relocating to the US in 2004, she progressively slowed down her fitness activities to focus on her family and career as a scientist. In 2017, a series of life events including health issues and professional burnout served as a wakeup call. She embarked on a journey of trauma healing and personal growth, which led her to step back into a dance fitness studio in 2019. Re-engaging in dance fitness in a safe, non-competitive environment allowed her to feel alive again, boosted her self-confidence, and transformed her life. In 2021, she became a group fitness instructor to help others see their beauty and worth, and step into their power.
Nathalie is licensed to teach multiple fitness formats including Xtreme Hip Hop with Phil (step), MixxedFit and Turn Up Dance Fitness. She goes by ‘Nat’ for all fitness activities, currently teaches at the YMCA and Vasa Fitness, and loves to collaborate with other instructors in local events. She strives to help others succeed on their personal journeys by making fitness fun, challenging and yet accessible. Her goal? To change lives, one class at a time.
She met her husband in college 33 years ago and is a mother of 3. Her mother language is French, and her accent isn’t going anywhere! She loves traveling and camping in nature – especially where there are no internet services. Her favorite thing is to blast music really loud at home. She can look quiet at times, … but when the beat drops, she lights up and lives her best life. Her favorite quote: “Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud” – Maya Angelou.