"Smart Moves Fitness exists to help people of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels unleash their potential by debunking fitness myths and teaching the art of smart training.  My goal is to educate each client about every aspect of their program, body and movement."  

          - Lauren Betancourt (NSCA CSCS, ACSM CPT) 
            Fitness Expert and Sport-Performance Coach

Current Education & Certifications: 

  • M. S. in Exercise and Sports Studies / Strength and Conditioning (Springfield College, 2008). 
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist(NSCA).
  • Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM) 
  • B. S. in Biological Sciences (University of Hartford, 2003, Age 16)

Past Certifications: 

  • Equinox Fitness Training Institute 
  • Certified Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Specialist, Level I (Project Walk) 

Lauren's extensive knowledge of biomechanics and exercise physiology has allowed her to create dynamic and effective training programs that set her apart from other trainers. 
  
OTHER CREDENTIALS:  Lauren currently divides her time between wellness coaching, teaching group classes and writing for Lance Armstrong's LiveStrong.com.  Most recently, she served as a Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Specialist at Project Walk and has logged more than 1500 hours working with SCI . Before relocating to California, Lauren was a coach for the prestigious Tier 4 Fitness Program at Equinox in New York City and was one of less than 30 Tier 4 Coaches in the country.  She was also a master instructor for the Equinox Fitness Training Institute, where she assisted new fitness professionals in developing the tools necessary for success in personal training.  

Lauren's original experience is in collegiate Strength and Conditioning. She has had the opportunity to work with Division I and Division III athletes at the University of Massachusetts, the University of Hartford, and Springfield College. She has worked with sports ranging from Football to Crew, and Gymnastics to Track and Field. Lauren has also worked with youth athletes at Velocity Sports Performance.

Lauren's athletic experience is in soccer, and she is also an award winning dancer. She has competed as a professional ballroom dancer, and has 20 years of experience in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, modern, and more. Her fitness and dance experience has assisted her in creating fun and insightful workshops for people of all ages. She has presented for middle school programs in her home state of Connecticut, the after-school program Girl Power, several health fairs, a Music Television (MTV) wellness event, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of New York.  She was designated a “Competent Communicator” by Toastmasters International.  Lauren looks forward to continuing her public speaking and community service activities for many years to come.

Lauren was selected as Miss Connecticut in 2007, and has top honors for lifestyle and fitness in swimwear. Thanks to the Miss America Organization, she has years of experience as a spokesperson and personality in television, radio, and print.