Gabi McKenzie | Instructor

Hi! I’m Gabi McKenzie, originally from Connecticut, mom of 1, and military spouse. I became a yoga teacher (RYT-200 through Yoga Alliance) in 2015, fresh out of college. I had no idea what to do with my life and it turned out to be a blessing, as I’ve continued to teach yoga on and off for 7 years while moving across the country, working a variety of jobs, going to graduate school, becoming a mother, and finally ending up teaching yoga for SLAM Tacoma. I have a BA in Psychology from New York University and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Puget Sound. I’m also a Certified Infant Massage Instructor and am CPR/AED certified.

I joined SLAM Tacoma in 2021 after the birth of my son. I had always loved working out but had no idea how to safely get back into it, not to mention with an infant by my side! I instantly fell in love with the sense of community and support that I found at SLAM Tacoma. I hadn’t realized how isolating motherhood had been until I was welcomed by a group who shared similar experiences and had a desire to connect with each other through movement and friendship.

My passion is making yoga accessible for all who choose to participate – at SLAM Tacoma, that means keeping everyone’s bodies safe, healthy, and strong through all stages of life and parenthood (I’ve completed 65 hours of prenatal/postnatal yoga training to best serve our pregnant/postpartum members). I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in my yoga classes, where all members feel invited to breathe, move, and connect with themselves and others. I hope to see you there soon!

Kayte Makowski | Instructor

Hi! I’m Kayte Makowski; I am a boy mom of 2 and originally from Nevada. I am an Ace certified personal trainer and CPR + AED certified through the American Red Cross. I also hold a BA in Justice from University of Alaska Anchorage.

I’ve always loved fitness but discovered my true passion for it while living in Alaska for many years. From rock climbing to ice climbing, trail running to triathlons, and for many years a CrossFit athlete. After having my first son in 2017, I found SLAM Anchorage and fell in love with the community and what it had to offer.

Fast forward to 2021, our little family of 4 made our move from Nevada to Washington where we plan to call it our forever home. When my husband told me my Peleton couldn’t be my bff and I needed to make real friends I thought, “How do I do that?!” Until I remembered SLAM, immediately searched to see if one was close and the rest is history. I’m so excited to be a part of this amazing group of women and help guide them through their fitness journey!

Kelly Scardina | Owner & Instructor

Hiiiii! I’m Kelly Scardina; A California native, mom of 2, wife of 1. I’m an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor, and CPR + AED certified through the American Heart Association. I also hold a BA in Communication Studies with a focus in Event Planning from San Jose State University!

Growing up, I played every sport under the sun! I loved being active, and the fun that came with team sports. But the best part for me was the social aspect, and “what are we doing after”?!  So when I joined SLAM Tacoma in 2019 as an adult and mother, I knew it was for me. 

Sports/active + event planning + social events = a dream come true! 

As I got more involved, I learned I also loved encouraging women, and showing them that they can do hard things, no matter how big or small! I love being a cheerleader for anyone trying to achieve a goal, and want to help them to take it the end! So I decided earlier this year in 2021, that I was going to get certified as a group fitness instructor to motivate women of all levels to accomplish their goals, whatever those might be, while having the best time doing it!