Meet Our Team
Expert Instructors. Diverse Classes. Elevated Fitness.
Marisa is a dynamic force in the Buffalo, NY, fitness community, renowned for her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering passion for dance and wellness. In 2017, she co-founded FIT HAPPENZ, LLC alongside Cindy Stani, transforming their shared vision into a vibrant fitness studio that welcomes enthusiasts of all levels. Her commitment to inclusivity is evident in the diverse array of classes offered at FIT HAPPENZ, including Zumba®, Zumba® Toning, Yoga, Boot Camp, and Hip Hop, ensuring a space where everyone can move, sweat, and thrive.
A licensed Zumba® instructor since 2011, Marisa has cultivated a loyal following through her high-energy classes and infectious enthusiasm. Her expertise extends beyond teaching—she is also a Zumba Jammer™, an elite role within Zumba Fitness, LLC, where she trains and mentors instructors worldwide. Through her leadership, she helps shape the next generation of Zumba® professionals, bringing her signature energy and technical knowledge to every session.
At the heart of FIT HAPPENZ is Marisa’s boundless energy and passion, which inspire and motivate all who walk through the doors. Her dedication to fostering a supportive and exhilarating fitness community has solidified FIT HAPPENZ as a premier destination for movement, motivation, and empowerment in Buffalo and beyond.
Cindy is a passionate fitness professional, entrepreneur, and community advocate based in Buffalo, New York. Her fitness journey began at the age of 20 and has been a lifelong passion ever since. As the co-owner of FIT HAPPENZ, LLC, Cindy has dedicated her career to promoting health, happiness, and inclusivity through fitness. With licenses in Zumba® Basic 1, Zumba® Toning, Aqua Zumba®, Zumba Gold®, Zumba® Step, and STRONG Nation™, she offers an exciting variety of classes that inspire and empower participants of all ages and fitness levels.
Cindy’s classes at FIT HAPPENZ include high-energy Zumba sessions, strength-building toning, trampoline fitness, yoga, and more, all designed to create a fun and welcoming environment. Her dedication to fitness goes hand-in-hand with her love for making a difference in the community. She co-hosts the annual Zumbathon with her daughter, Marisa, raising over $75,000 for Make-A-Wish Western New York, blending her passion for fitness with philanthropy.
Through her vibrant personality and unwavering commitment to helping others, Cindy embodies the true spirit of community and wellness. Whether she’s teaching a class, supporting charitable causes, or simply enjoying life’s simple pleasures, Cindy’s goal is to inspire others to live healthier, happier lives. For her, making a positive impact in her community and helping people thrive is what brings the greatest joy.
Jessica leads Stretch & Mobility Flow at FIT HAPPENZ, creating a supportive and engaging space for participants to improve flexibility, release tension, and enhance overall movement. With a focus on mindful mobility, her classes help build strength, reduce stiffness, and promote better body awareness. She provides clear, patient instruction, ensuring that every movement is accessible and beneficial, regardless of experience level.
Her classes are especially welcoming to beginners, offering a gentle introduction to mobility work with modifications to meet individual needs. Jessica’s approach is both intentional and adaptable, making her sessions ideal for those easing into movement, recovering from intense workouts, or seeking a restorative experience. She prioritizes individual progress, providing encouragement and guidance to help every participant feel confident and capable.
With her ability to foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, Jessica ensures that students not only improve their mobility but also enjoy the process.
Melhea leads Step Toning Fusion and Lift & Core classes at FIT HAPPENZ, focusing on cardio, toning, and endurance training. With a fitness journey that began at age 16, and as a longtime member of the FIT HAPPENZcommunity since she was 10, she brings a wealth of experience and passion to her classes.
Step Toning Fusion blends the benefits of a lower-body workout with step aerobics, Zumba dance moves, and light resistance upper-body training using toning sticks. Lift & Core is welcoming to all fitness levels, particularly those new to weighted exercises and looking to elevate their workout. This full-body class emphasizes mind-to-muscle connections and endurance training for a well-rounded fitness experience.
Melhea’s teaching style is inclusive and adaptable, offering baseline, progressions, modified, and advanced movements to ensure every participant feels confident and safe, with a focus on proper form to prevent injury. Her goal is to create a positive, energized, and supportive atmosphere in every class, while challenging participants to reach and exceed their fitness goals.
My name is Sarah and I teach Jump HIIT at FIT HAPPENZ. I took my first Jumping class in 2021 and immediately fell in love with the super fun, intense cardio workout to an awesome playlist of songs! One year later, I started teaching my own Jumping class. Since then, I have transformed my class into HIIT, which combines cardio and targeted strength training using hand weights and bodyweight exercises. I love creating new workout routines that challenge my students and making themed playlists, including Halloween, Christmas, and 90s!
Outside of class, I am an elementary school teacher and a foster with Buffalo Underdogs rescue. I enjoy spending time with my husband, walking my two dogs, reading thrillers and historical fiction books, gardening, and playing video games.
Our Classes
Find Your Rhythm, Crush Your Goals – Classes for Every Fitness Level!
