The YMCA

For Youth Development ™
For Healthy Living
For Social Responsibility

Personal Trainer Bios

Crystal Gassman

Education | Certifications | Specialities: 

NSCA Strength and Conditioning Specialist, NASM & ACE Personal Trainer, Kettlebells, TRX Suspension

I became a certified Personal Trainer in 2002. Since then I have enjoyed training at a variety of fitness facilities. I came to the Y in 2006 as a Full Time Personal Trainer and have been a Senior Fitness Coordinator since 2007. I enjoy working with the variety of members that the YMCA has as well as the variety of programs that we have to offer.

Kirk Erickson

Education | Certifications | Specialities: 

ACE Personal Trainer, YMCA Pilates Reformer, ACE Lifestyle & Weight Management Coach, NETA Group Exercise Instructor, New Leaf® Metabolism, Assessment & Programming

I truly have a passion for health and fitness, both personally and professionally. I have the opportunity each and every day to help others reach their health and fitness goals; be it a retired person looking to lose a little weight or a “weekend warrior” looking to improve their triathlon times. I love what I do and believe that proper nutrition and leading a healthy and active lifestyle are crucial components of overall well-being.

Nikki Conant 

Education | Certifications | Specialties: 

M.S. Exercise Physiology Western Illinois University, B.S. Exercise Science Western Illinois University, ACE Personal Trainer, Kettlebell, TRX Suspension, Plyometrics, Stretching/Flexibility

I have been a personal trainer for 17 years. Helping people achieve their goals is a very rewarding part of my job. I believe we all are a work in progress and sometimes we get side tracked or come to hurdles we need help to get over. That is what I am for, to get you through the bumps and over your fitness hurdles. I have a wide variety of experience; I have worked with high school, college and pro athletes, as well as cardiac rehab clients.

Brad Wagner

Education | Certifications | Specialties: 

NETA Group Fitness Instructor, NETA Personal Trainer, Kettlebell, TRX Suspension

I love being at the YMCA as my full time job. Meeting with people and helping them reach their fitness goals are the driving forces that keep me going with my passion of serving people of all levels. 


“I have been training with Kirk for several months. His attitude and knowledge have driven me to new challenges in my workouts. I’m an adventurous person and his goals for my development have helped me to experience things that I never thought I would do. I’ve taken up running and have run a couple of races…with more to come! His experience and varied workouts have helped me prepare for and accept any challenge that comes my way. The workouts keep me interested and motivated to expand my exercise experiences and keep them fresh.”