Passing the torch to Kristen Sheridan!
We’re overjoyed to share some exciting news: Kristen Sheridan—fabulous fitness professional and Libertyville local—will become the new owner of RPM & Zen (formerly Heather’s Gym/HG Studios) starting August 1st!
Kristen’s connection to this community runs deep. In fact, she was the very first instructor to join Heather’s Gym 11 years ago! Since then, she’s inspired countless members with her unmatched energy, compassion, and dedication to helping others feel strong, supported, and empowered.
As Kristen steps into this new role, she brings with her a deep respect for our legacy and a bold vision for the future. Her passion for people and community will guide every step as she continues to build a space where wellness, connection, and good vibes are at the heart of everything we do.
We can’t wait to see what’s ahead—and we’re so grateful to have you with us on this journey.
Getting to Know Kristen!
I grew up in Palatine and started dancing and performing at the age of 2. I was also a competitive gymnast for many years, but eventually realized that dance was my true passion—and it’s where I chose to devote all of my energy and heart.
I went on to attend the University of Wisconsin, where I earned a business degree in accounting and marketing and was a member of the nationally ranked UW Dance Team. After college, I began a career in sales and marketing while continuing to dance as a Luvabull for the Chicago Bulls—an unforgettable experience that combined my love for performance, teamwork, and high energy.
Later, while working as the Sales Manager at the Hilton Hotel in Evanston, I met my husband, Justin Sheridan, who was the Director of Football Operations at Northwestern University at the time. Justin is now a scout in the National Football League and has worked for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and currently for the Los Angeles Chargers. Life has brought us so many amazing chapters, most importantly, our three kids, Payton-16, Brooks-14, Tatum-9, and the community we’ve built over the past 12 years in Libertyville.
Fitness, movement, and human connection have always been a part of who I am. Justin and I are excited to bring all of that to our new role as owners of RPM & Zen—a place that feels like home to us in every way.
My journey into group fitness began with a little inspiration—and a lot of encouragement—from family. My cousins were both fitness instructors and Les Mills trainers, and they recognized how naturally my dance background translated into group exercise. They saw a spark in me before I even saw it in myself, and they encouraged me to take that leap. I’m so glad I did.
While I initially pursued my AFAA Group Fitness certification and later added Piloxing, it was really Heather who sparked my passion for barre. She introduced the very first barre classes in Libertyville 11 years ago, and I was hooked from the start. Her classes were powerful, graceful, and incredibly intentional. I loved taking them, and I’ll never forget how she always noticed and complimented my form—it meant a lot and truly encouraged me to grow.
At the time, I was teaching Piloxing at XSport, but when the opportunity came to get certified in Piloxing Barre, I jumped at it. It was such an honor to teach the very first Piloxing Barre class in Libertyville at Heather’s Gym. From that moment on, I knew this was exactly where I was meant to be.
Group fitness has given me the opportunity to combine my lifelong love of movement with my passion for helping others feel strong, confident, and supported. There’s something incredibly powerful about people coming together to move, challenge themselves, and celebrate what their bodies can do. It’s more than just fitness—it’s connection, confidence, and community. And to be part of that transformation for others is something I never take for granted.
When you're not working, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not working, I’m all about making memories with my family and friends. My husband, Justin, and I are big live music fans—we attend as many concerts as we can and have even passed that love of music on to our kids! We also love to travel and live by the motto: “Take the trip.” Most recently, we celebrated our 20th anniversary with an unforgettable adventure through Ireland, Spain, and England.
Staying active is a huge part of my lifestyle. In the summer, you’ll find me water skiing, swimming, or soaking up the sun on the lake in Lake Geneva. In the winter, we hit the slopes for snow skiing whenever we can. Whether it's the beach in Florida or California, or just time outside with my crew, I always feel my best when I’m moving, exploring, and enjoying life with the people I love most.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
As a kid, I dreamed of being a performer at a theme park. I didn’t just want to visit the parks—I wanted to be on stage. I wanted to dance in front of the castle! So after college, I went for it. I sent out VHS audition tapes to Disney World, Busch Gardens, Opryland… you name it. I chased down every local audition I could find.
One of my most memorable moments was making it to the final rounds of auditions at Great America. I crushed the dance portion and felt so confident—until they told me I had to sing. Cue panic. The song? "Aquarius." So there I was, giving it everything I had:
"This is the age of Aquarius… age of Aquarius..."
Halfway through, they stopped me and asked if I could please sing the female version—apparently I had been belting out the male part. I took it up an octave as requested... and let’s just say, it was not my finest moment. The note cracked, the moment fizzled—and I didn’t get the job.
But honestly? I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. It was a reminder to go after your dreams, be willing to laugh at yourself, and never take life—or auditions—too seriously.
Coffee or tea? Early bird or night owl?
Neither—I’m a proud McDonald’s Diet Coke girl, every single day! As for mornings… I’m definitely a night owl, but it’s my personal mission to make it to a 5:30am class one of these days. Stay tuned—I’ll get there!
What’s a quote or mantra you live by?
“If you hit a wall, climb over it, crawl under it, or dance on top of it.”
If you could take any class at RPM or Zen with anyone (living or not), who would it be and why?
Richard Simmons!
Growing up, I used to do his Sweatin’ to the Oldies videos with my mom in our family room—we had an absolute blast. Those moments are some of my favorite childhood memories, full of laughter, music, and moving our bodies together.
I’d loveto bring Richard back for a good old-fashioned group ex class at Zen, full of energy, positivity, and sparkle—and then head next door to RPM to crush a ride to his signature jams. He’s such an icon and a true inspiration for making fitness joyful, inclusive, and fun. Who wouldn’t want to sweat with Richard Simmons?
What’s your vision for the future of RPM & Zen?
The gym has always been my happy place—and I know it’s the same for so many others. My vision is to continue building on the incredible foundation Heather created 11 years ago, carrying forward that same sense of joy, energy, and community that has always made RPM & Zen feel like home.
I’m all about bringing the GOOD VIBES—keeping our classes fresh and fun by blending the latest fitness trends with the strong, foundational group exercise formats we all know and love. I also want to grow our community in meaningful ways—welcoming in new faces and encouraging our current members to bring their partners, kids, friends, and neighbors to experience what makes this place so special.
RPM & Zen will continue to be more than just a gym—it will be a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring space where people of all ages and fitness levels can come together to feel strong, supported, and connected.
What are your immediate priorities for the business in the coming months?
First and foremost, I want to connect with our community—getting to know as many members as possible both in and out of class. Hosting events, creating opportunities to chat beyond the studio walls, and really listening to what our members love (and want more of!) are at the top of my list.
Consistency in our schedule and classes is important to me, but I also want to infuse things with fresh energy, fun twists, and a little flair—challenging members to try new formats, step out of their comfort zones, and experience everything RPM & Zen has to offer.
I’m also passionate about making this space one that includes our families. I want our kids to see what a positive, uplifting community looks like—where strength, joy, and connection are celebrated every day.
Ultimately, I want RPM & Zen to be a place that radiates “Good Vibes Only”—a space where everyone knows your name, and everyone feels welcome, seen, and supported.