Vanessa Vander Heide, Certified Massage Therapist, HHP
Vanessa graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in health, fitness and nutrition. She graduated Summa cum Laude and with department distinction. She received a certification in Group Fitness Instruction from the American College of Sports Medicine (which is the ‘gold standard’ of certifications in the fitness industry). She has been a personal trainer since 2003.
Vanessa was an accomplished competitive gymnast for 10 years, which lead to her passion for coaching. She has coached gymnastics for 16 years where she served in every capacity from gym manager to team director. She is currently the head coach for the Xcel Team at Oceanside Gymnastics. She also volunteer’s with the Special Olympics, coaching the gymnast and judging meets.
Before transitioning careers to becoming a Holistic Health Practitioner, she was the owner/operator of Way of Life Boot Camp, Carlsbad. For four years she offered personal training, small group classes and corporate fitness training (leading fitness classes on-site for companies in the North County). She served as a personal trainer for expectant and postpartum mothers, post rehab, geriatrics, kids and teens, and persons with special needs. She specialized in weight-loss, muscle toning and increased flexibility.
As a perpetual student, her career transition was spurred on after taking an advanced class and becoming certified as a level 1 Neurokenetic Therapist which then lead to becoming a Certified Massage Therapist and Holistic Health Practitioner. Having been a life long athlete, Vanessa has always had an interest in the mechanics of the body and developed a feel for massage at a young age massaging teammates. She specializes in Neuromuscular Massage. Using a variety of modalities to release tension and bring the muscular structure back into balance. Having found her calling, she is passionate about helping clients heal and facilitate a sense of overall well-being.
Vanessa was an accomplished competitive gymnast for 10 years, which lead to her passion for coaching. She has coached gymnastics for 16 years where she served in every capacity from gym manager to team director. She is currently the head coach for the Xcel Team at Oceanside Gymnastics. She also volunteer’s with the Special Olympics, coaching the gymnast and judging meets.
Before transitioning careers to becoming a Holistic Health Practitioner, she was the owner/operator of Way of Life Boot Camp, Carlsbad. For four years she offered personal training, small group classes and corporate fitness training (leading fitness classes on-site for companies in the North County). She served as a personal trainer for expectant and postpartum mothers, post rehab, geriatrics, kids and teens, and persons with special needs. She specialized in weight-loss, muscle toning and increased flexibility.
As a perpetual student, her career transition was spurred on after taking an advanced class and becoming certified as a level 1 Neurokenetic Therapist which then lead to becoming a Certified Massage Therapist and Holistic Health Practitioner. Having been a life long athlete, Vanessa has always had an interest in the mechanics of the body and developed a feel for massage at a young age massaging teammates. She specializes in Neuromuscular Massage. Using a variety of modalities to release tension and bring the muscular structure back into balance. Having found her calling, she is passionate about helping clients heal and facilitate a sense of overall well-being.