Empty gym with a weight bench, a rack of dumbbells, and a mirror on the wall, illuminated by natural light.

About us

Middle Ground is a training group that offers an alternative to mainstream fitness. Our approach integrates diverse training theories and therapeutic practices to support growth not only in physical performance but in mental strength and confidence as well.

Through moderation and compassion-centered methods, we help clients build trust in their bodies, strengthen commitment, and develop self-efficacy. We stay current with evolving research in health and fitness while centering our philosophy on our core belief: hard work and structure can coexist with compassion and respect for the body. Lasting health and performance are found in the middle ground.

Our Theory

  • Co-Founder & Certified Personal Trainer

    With over 6 years of experience as a face-to-face and remote personal trainer and fitness coach, Marlena’s approach to wellness is rooted in authenticity, creativity, and helping others feel strong and connected to themselves.

    She offers:

    • 1:1 and Small Group Personal Training

    • Nutrition Guidance

    • Mindset Strategy and Transformation

    • Group Training for Retreats

    • Community Workout Classes

    • Grocery Shopping and On-Site Meal Prep

  • Co-Founder, Basketball Trainer & Certified Personal Trainer

    As a former DI basketball player with an MS in Quantitative Psychology, Claire’s approach to fitness is grounded in both effective movement and a balanced mindset. She empowers clients to build confidence, further self-efficacy, and restructure toxic thought patterns around exercise and the body.

    She offers:

    • 1:1 and Small Group Personal Training

    • Basketball Skills Training for Athletes of Any Age

    • Mindset Strategy and Transformation

    • Community Workout Classes

A smiling woman seated on a wooden box, holding a dumbbell in her right hand, in a gym with kettlebells on the floor to her left, weight plates behind her and framed pictures on the wall to her right.
A young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a white jacket and gray sweatpants with black stripes, sitting on a wooden exercise box in a gym. She is smiling and looking at the camera. The background includes a white brick wall, some gym equipment, and a black floor with green turf.

who we are.

Marlena Shoemaker, CPT

Claire Killian, MS, CPT

Two women in athletic attire exchanging a high-five inside a gym, with framed artwork on the white brick wall behind them.

finding the middle ground 

Read extensively about our coaching and training philosophy below.

Learn more