ABOUT US
We Focus on Results!
LEAP is the culmination of over a decade of service provided by owner, Matt Durdin, to Chicago as a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, and nutrition coach.
The previous co-owner of Unrivaled Fitness in Lakeview, his evolution as a fitness professional over the years lead him to the creation of Lakeview East Athletics and Performance.
This exclusive club, offering the best in personal training, team training, and nutrition consultation, enables it's members to feel confident that no matter what their fitness goals may be, they have the ability to accomplish them at the supportive community known as "LEAP."
THE TEAM
Matt Durdin
Owner, Coach
Certifications and specialties:
ISSA, ACE certified PT
ISSA fitness nutrition specialist
Precision nutrition coach
FMS (functional movement screen)
Pre and post natal
Powerlifting/Kickboxing
American Red Cross
First Aid/CPR/AED

Casey Buenzli
Director of Program Design and Social media,
Coach
Certifications and specialties:
National Strength and Conditioning Association- CPT
Titleist Performance Institute
Bachelor's of Science in Kinesiology
minor in Nutritional Sciences
American Red Cross
First Aid/CPR/AED
Anastissaya Suslik
Self Defense Expert, Coach
Certifications and specialties:
ISSA - CPT
Krav Maga Alliance Level 2 Certified Instructor
Krav Maga Brown Belt
Savate Instructor
Savate Yellow Glove
American Red Cross
First Aid/CPR/AED
"I believe that as an owner of a successful fitness facility you must think of it as your members' gym and not one of your own. It is my responsibility to provide LEAP's members with whatever support they may need; the top fitness professionals in the industry, the most effective programming and highest quality equipment, and a uniquely beautiful environment that gets you excited to come and train. I fully intend on fulfilling that responsibility!"
"My passion for fitness started when I was really young. I grew up going to my mom's group exercise classes and learning proper nutrition from her. I absolutely loved the self-disciple of daily exercise and healthy eating habits and I wanted to share my joy for health and wellness with others. I decided to pursue my Bachelor's in Kinesiology with a minor in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. While attending college, I started teaching group fitness classes. My passion for fitness grew personally and professionally, as well as my desire to help others achieve their wellness goals. To this day, I find such joy in health and fitness because I truly believe that exercise is medicine."
Ana grew up in Kazakhstan and moved to the US in 2008. Her life changed when she discovered MMA and the fitness world. She has years of experience training in Krav Maga, Muay Thai, Boxing, Kickboxing, Savate, Kali and JKD. She taught Krav Maga and Savate (French Kickboxing) for over five years. She has also taught Women's Self Defense Seminars for the community for four years.
In her spare time she enjoys Aerial Fitness, running, weight lifting, and volunteering at an animal shelter. She fundraised for Team Paws and ran the Chicago Marathon four consecutive years.
Fun Facts about Ana:
She once kicked a heavy bag off the hook!
She enjoys photography and taking photos of the shelter dogs.
THE CROWN
LEAP's logo symbolizes many things:
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ROYALTY : We treat our members like royalty.
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POWER: You have the ability to become the most powerful version of yourself at LEAP.
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HONOR: We are honored to be trusted in helping you to achieve your goals.
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GREATNESS: You will reach your greatest potential at LEAP!