Maria’s interests for fitness began when she starting participating in Group Fitness classes while attending college at Florida State University. Enjoying weekly classes quickly turned into much more; Maria was driven to become more involved, and promptly obtained her Group Exercise Certification. Her passion towards health and fitness grew quickly, and she went on to acquire additional certifications for Personal Training, Spin, the Gravity Training System and more. After a successful year of teaching, Maria was given program supervisory responsibilities and promoted to Senior Group Exercise Instructor of Florida State’s Leach Student Recreation Center. It was here, in Maria’s love for teaching and exercising, that geared her education in a direction to pursue a career in Physical Therapy.

Maria graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science and went on to receive a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Florida International University.

Currently, Maria happily balances dual careers. As a licensed Physical Therapist in Florida, she works with one of Florida’s top-rated hospitals, in addition to two well-recognized outpatient sports rehabilitation clinics. Alongside her Physical Therapy career, Maria teaches numerous Group Exercise classes throughout Broward County and is the acting Group Exercise Program Coordinator at Nova Southeastern University, where she has truly left her mark.

Amongst her heavy involvement and many accomplishments at Nova Southeastern University, Maria was recognized as one of the top personal trainers for the University's popular "Biggest Loser Program," as well as the Head Running Coach of the 5K running program. Maria is also the force behind the most popular class on the schedule, Circuit Blast, which she created several years ago.

Maria’s typical 12- hour work day is blissfully committed to promoting fitness, health, wellness, and nutrition. She is proud to represent fitness and encourage positive health trends amongst others. Her future in the fitness industry is just beginning.

“I live, breath, and embody fitness.”

- Maria Pontillo, DPT, BSHS, AFAA Certified, GTS Certified