About Us

At Body Design by Alissa, we believe in having fun while exercising and building personal relationships. We care about you and are personally invested in helping you reach your fitness goals. We want to get to know you and will create a program that will help fit your lifestyle, budget and specific fitness needs. Body Design by Alissa is a small boutique training studio, not a big get-lost-in-the-crowd gym. We specialize in giving you individualized, unique, specific attention that provides you with accountability, results, and support. Our studio makes you feel comfortable. And… did I say we have a lot of FUN, yet?

We look forward to getting you into the best shape of your life!

Alissa Harakal (owner)

Alissa’s passion for exercise and fitness began at the age of 3 when she had her first dance class. She still enjoys all forms of dancing today and integrates it into her workout routines.

After completing a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, Alissa took a year to complete a certification in massage therapy. She then received her master’s degree, specializing in biomechanics and knee osteoarthritis. While attending her master’s program, she helped run a stage II cardiac rehabilitation program.

Alissa continued her education at the University of Michigan for two more years in pursuit of a PhD in biomechanics.

Alissa now owns and operates Body Design by Alissa, LLC. Her days consist of laughing with her clients and supporting them in staying healthy, fit and vibrant.

Alissa is committed to the highest quality of training in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Integrating dance, personal training, pilates and massage creates a unique approach to fitness. She is regularly reassessing her own training techniques and those of the Body Design by Alissa instructors by requiring completion of new certification programs and staying up-to-date with the latest fitness research and methods.

Alissa currently holds the following certifications:

• STOTT Pilates
• ACSM Health Fitness Instructor
• Core Barre

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Greta Bolton (instructor)

Greta received her BFA in Musical Theater from the University of Florida and later worked as a singer, actor and dancer. Her career was altered after marrying a Marine, moving and having children.

In 2007, she decided that Pilates was the right career path for her. She interned with Bodies By Pilates for a year and a half, learning daily and teaching reformer classes. In 2009, Greta earned her Level 1 & 2 certification through STOTT Pilates in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair and Barrels in San Diego, CA. She taught at Propel Pilates in San Diego where she had the privilege to work with clients of all levels, abilities, and various injuries until 2013 when she moved to Alexandria, VA.

For the past year and a half, she has taught private sessions from her home studio. She’s so excited to become a member of the Body Design by Alissa team and looks forward to creating fun and creative workout programs for you!