About
Help First Fitness
Our team of fitness and nutrition professionals are invested in your health. We make every decision with our members’ well-being in mind. Achieve your goals with us!
The Team
Erik Zeyher
Owner
Erik is the Owner of Warlock Athletics with a proven track record in elite-level training, business leadership, and athlete development. A former Division 1 soccer player at Marist College, he holds top certifications, including CCFT, Level 3 CrossFit Trainer, and CrossFit Master’s Trainer, specializing in bridging the gap between post-rehabilitation and peak performance. His expertise extends beyond coaching—he mentors and develops coaches, ensuring that the highest standards of training and client care are upheld.
Recognized among the top 1% of fitness business leaders worldwide by Two Brain Business and a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, Erik collaborates with Vassar Hospital, Reebok, and Orthopedic Associates, as well as leading doctors and industry experts. As an Ambassador for Aerobic Capacity and The Buddy Lee Jump Rope System, he remains deeply involved in advancing fitness education. His mission is clear—to coach the coaches, elevate industry standards, and ensure every athlete receives world-class training and support.
Sondra Cepeda
Strength and Performance Coach
Sondra’s journey into fitness is nothing short of transformative. A certified CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, she is the embodiment of energy, drive, and passion for a healthier life. Her love for fitness is not just a personal pursuit; it’s a calling to empower others to live their best lives. With a heart focused on service, Sondra joined Help First Fitness to help people become the best versions of themselves, just as fitness has done for her.
The Transformation Journey
For Sondra, fitness was not just a choice; it was a life-changing experience. Her path toward better health through exercise and mindful living has taught her the real value of strength, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. She understands the challenges that come with adopting a fitness routine and is committed to making your journey rewarding and achievable.
Credentials to Inspire Trust
Sondra is more than just an enthusiast; she’s a qualified CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. This credential not only symbolizes her commitment to her own fitness but also verifies her expertise to guide others on their fitness journey. When you train with Sondra, you’re in the hands of a professional who knows her craft.
Ready to take the first step in transforming your life? Sondra can’t wait to meet you! Book a No Sweat Intro today!
Cassandra Weaver
Strength and Performance Coach
Cassie’s passion for fitness comes from her own transformative journey. As a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, she understands the physical, mental, and emotional impact of prioritizing health. After experiencing firsthand how fitness can change every aspect of life, she is committed to helping others take that same step toward self-improvement.
With coaching experience at Warlock Athletics, Cassie thrives on building strong relationships with athletes, creating a supportive and empowering environment where they feel confident to push their limits. She believes that trust and connection are the foundation of growth, and she’s dedicated to making every athlete feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving their goals.
Outside of the gym, Cassie enjoys volleyball, horseback riding, snowboarding, traveling, and riding motorcycles. She believes that fitness is more than just movement—it’s about community, trust, and personal growth. No matter where you’re starting from, Cassie is here to help you take that first step! Book a No Sweat Intro today! 💪🔥
Dr. Vinny Colantuono, DPT
Strength and Performance Coach
Dr. Vinny Colantuono brings a unique blend of physical therapy expertise and strength coaching to Help First Fitness. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, he has worked with professional and Olympic athletes across the NBA, MLS, marathoners, and world-class sprinters. Currently, he practices at CPT, a local sports orthopedic clinic, and works with Marist and Vassar College Sports Medicine Departments, ensuring athletes receive top-tier training and rehabilitation. His experience allows him to bridge the gap between injury recovery, strength training, and peak performance for clients of all levels.
Vinny’s coaching philosophy is centered around a progressive, client-focused approach—empowering athletes to move better, build resilience, and unlock their true strength. His expertise in pain neuroscience, strength and conditioning, mobility, and rehabilitation ensures that each session is both science-backed and results-driven. Outside of coaching, he enjoys homemade Italian meals with loved ones, reading, and DJing. A recent personal milestone? Completing the 50-Mile Rock the Ridge Ultramarathon in May 2024.
To all Help First Fitness members, Vinny is here to tune into your goals, strategize for success, and help you achieve physical, mental, and behavioral breakthroughs—one session at a time. Let’s get after it!
Daniela Marquez
Strength and Performance Coach
Daniela combines a lifetime of passion for fitness, a competitive spirit, and an engineer’s problem-solving mindset to help clients unlock their full potential. As a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer and marathon enthusiast who has completed 23 marathons, she understands the dedication it takes to achieve big goals—and she’s here to help you achieve yours.
Her love for sports began early, with soccer as her first passion, building a strong foundation in teamwork and a drive to push beyond limits. Daniela’s approachable, goal-oriented coaching style is rooted in her belief that with the right mindset and guidance, anyone can feel fitter, stronger, and more confident in life.
Outside the gym, Daniela channels her passion for innovation and collaboration into her role as Chief of Staff at Lovingly, where she helps redefine the floral gifting experience through thoughtful and innovative technology. She holds dual degrees in Electrical and Sound Engineering from the University of Michigan and has built a career focused on connecting people through creativity and technology.
An avid skier, musician, wife, and mom of two, Daniela is proof that balance is achievable—and fitness is the foundation for it all. Whether you’re chasing a new PR or simply seeking a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle, Daniela’s expertise and enthusiasm will inspire you to reach your goals.
Take the first step.
We can’t wait to meet you
Chat with a coach at Help First Fitness to learn more about what program will fit your goals.