Our Instructors
Shebah Carfagna
Shebah has been a devoted to fitness follower for more than nine years. After years of weight lifting and participating in a variety of strength training, spinning and step aerobics classes her interest in fitness increased. Wanting to increase her knowledge of fitness combined with the desire to share her knowledge with others, Shebah began a series of certifications. Currently, she teaches mat pilates, spinning, boot camp, step aerobics, and core conditioning. She believes that everyone can be empowered to enhance their mind, body and spirit through healthy lifestyle activities and her five “D” philosophy: decision, diet, discipline, desire, determination, and applies these principles to her daily life and activities.
Janet Tiberian
Janet has been working in fitness and wellness for more than 17 years. She completes her comprehensive certification in Pilates from Classical Pilates Studio this fall. In addition to her Pilates certification, she is certified as a primary group exercise instructor from the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and health education specialist from the National Commission of Health Educator Credentialing. She earned a double bachelors' degree in Exercise Science and Sports Management, as well as a master's degree in Public Health.
Patrick Shields
Patrick joined the University of Miami Medical Wellness Center in June 2006. Prior to UM, he was the Pilates instructor for Jackson Health System Wellness Division. He is certified as a Pilates Practitioner through Polestar Pilates. He obtained his Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy at University of Massachusetts-Lowell, and earned an Advanced Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy at University of Miami. He is a senior physical therapist at Jackson Memorial Hospital. He has collaborated with University of Miami faculty in research associated with the fitness level of the morbidly obese and the psychosocial aspects of chronic pain.
Andrea Ryder
Andrea is an actor with training in classical ballet and modern dance. She relocated to Miami from New York City and was first introduced to Pilates as a method improving technique while preventing injury. She obtained her certification through the Kane School in NYC, and favors an approach in her teaching. Her style is direct, yet flowing, focuses on bringing awareness through movement.
