OUR Instructors
At HardKnox Astoria, our highly experienced team of instructors brings over 30 years of combined martial arts and fitness experience to the table. Our unique programs of Martial Science and Functional Fitness are designed to take your skills and physical abilities to the next level. Meet our dedicated team and get started on your own fitness journey today!
BONAFIDE WARHAWK
Sensei, Owner
Bonafide Warhawk's journey began with a challenging upbringing, where the streets became his training ground for self-defense. In a pivotal moment during high school, while assisting a friend at work, he faced adversity when a thief's attack left him legally blind, having been stabbed in the eye.
Undeterred by this life-altering event, he found solace and purpose in martial arts. His determination to overcome physical limitations fueled his passion for training others. For him, martial arts offered a unique opportunity to fight without relying on his eyes, showcasing the strength of the human spirit.
Today, his mission as a Business Owner extends beyond personal triumphs as he opens martial arts and functional fitness centers under the banner of Bonafide Warhawk. With 30+ years of experience, his ultimate goal is to empower individuals, drawing from his own experiences to inspire and guide others on their transformative fitness journeys.
NICOLE RAMIREZ
Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer
Coach Nikki is a Fitness Entrepreneur, having started her own fitness business in her community before joining the HardKnox Family. It was there that she first experienced the joy of helping others achieve their fitness goals and witness the transformative power of exercise. From beginners to seasoned athletes, Coach Nikki has worked with individuals of all levels, guiding them towards healthier, stronger versions of themselves.
In 2019, Coach Nikki became a Certified Personal Trainer through NASM and a Conditioning Coach through Bio Force. Her true love for fitness and health, paired with her unmatched energy and vigorous workouts, allows Coach Nikki to offer some of the most dynamic and lively HIIT classes here at HardKnox Astoria!
IAN BARNETT
Muay Thai Instructor
Coach Ian's journey into the world of Muay Thai began in 2017 at the prestigious Renzo Gracie Academy in the heart of NYC, where he immersed himself in the art of combat. Under the tutelage of renowned instructors, Ian honed his skills and found his passion for Muay Thai/Kickboxing.
With a background rooted in the legacy of RGA, known for producing world-class martial artists across various disciplines, Ian now stands as a Muay Thai Instructor, sharing his expertise and insights with eager learners. His training at RGA serves as a testament to his expertise and proficiency in the discipline.
Ian sees Muay Thai as a practical means of self-defense, instilling in his students the confidence to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. But above all, Ian emphasizes the joy and exhilaration that Muay Thai brings. As he puts it, Muay Thai is not merely about physical exertion; it's a beautiful amalgamation of aesthetics and effectiveness, a chess match where technique triumphs over brute force.
TONI VITALE
Cycling Coach, Fitness Instructor
Toni Vitale has been in the fitness Industry for 20+ years teaching classes such as HIIT, BOOTCAMP, CIRCUIT and CYCLING. Her passion for exercise and a health in her personal life prompted her to add it as a work professional. Working with all ages and levels, helping those to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
Using a variety of effective strength/cardio exercises, various equipment and challenging formats, she is dedicated to delivering intense workouts with results. Motivation gets you there, discipline and commitment keep you there.
CAROLINA MARIN
Mat Pilates Instructor
Carolina Marín is a Chilean artist, dancer, and educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching and researching movement. A candidate for Axis Syllabus teacher certification, she merges her formal dance training from Chile and Argentina with her expertise as a certified Yoga and Pilates instructor. Carolina's classes focus on promoting intelligent and efficient movement tailored to individual needs, integrating diverse somatic practices such as Release Technique, Alexander Technique, and Biomechanics.
Her unique approach transforms traditional dance techniques and combines them with principles from various disciplines, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for students to explore their bodies and enhance their movement potential.
AMAN SADIYAN
Head Concierge
With 20+ years of experience in customer care and hospitality in some of the most exclusive Michelin star restaurants in Los Angeles and New York City, Aman Sadiyan (A-Train) is the Head Concierge of HardKnox Astoria. Having had the privilege of catering to the needs of some of the most prominent personalities in the United States, A-Train has truly refined his ability to provide exceptional service with a personal touch.
A-Train has mentored under Sensei Bonafide for nearly a decade. He began studying martial arts and the importance of fitness, later transitioning into a Youth Fitness Assistant for Sensei Bonafide. His passion grew as he nurtured the minds of future generations, instilling discipline and valuable life skills.
Outside of the fitness world, A-Train is an Assistant Tech Designer and owns his own fashion line, House of BRKT, designing luxury jackets. His creativity and multidisciplinary mindset are the heart of HardKnox Astoria, helping craft a unique and immersive experience for all of our members!
MARK SZIRTES
Youth Fitness Instructor
Mark Szirtes is a dedicated youth fitness instructor at Hardknox Astoria, blending his enthusiasm for sports with a passion for teaching kids. An 11th grader that's local in Astoria, Mark brings a youthful energy and diverse athletic background to his role.
Outside of the gym, Mark enjoys video games, hanging out with friends, and playing basketball. With past experience in Taekwondo and soccer, he’s excited to share his love for fitness and sports with young athletes.
Mark is committed to helping children grow both physically and mentally, creating an engaging and positive environment where they can discover their potential and build confidence.