I had the pleasure of sitting down with Donna to discuss her previous workout history, what led her to joining The Shop, and eventually becoming our choice for Spring BodyShop Athlete at our Manor Shop. In my opinion, Donna is a very humble and down to earth person. If you have ever shared a class with her then you know she would much prefer talking about you than about herself. She is sweet and genuine, hard working, and she represents a lovely part of our community! We are pleased to have her as a member, and so excited she became our Spring BA at Manor. However brief, this interview shares a bit about her. Please enjoy.

M: What brought you to Austin?
D: I moved to Austin with my son who is getting a Phd at UT. I also moved from the Northeast to get away from the long winters!

M: Why did you choose to get into fitness?
D: I have always been into fitness. An important part of my life.

M: What do you value about the classes you take at the Shop?
D: I like to attend Fusion and Sunday’s Wonder Women classes at Manor. I found that if I needed to motivate myself to exercise, I was not as successful – The class atmosphere at the Shop helps!

M: How does fitness fit in with your larger life?
D: The classes at the shop push me to challenge my limits. I have found I can do a lot more than I thought I could.

M: Do you have any specific fitness goals you’d like to share with us?
D: I plan to always get regular exercise. I feel it’s the only way I’ll continue to feel good physically. I want to be as mobile as possible, as long as possible.

M: Have you noticed any changes, physically or mentally, since starting at the Shop?
D: Dane’s Body Shop has definitely helped me get in much better shape than before thanks to the extra motivation.

M: How long ago did you move to Austin and where were you living before?
D: I moved to Austin in July of 2017 from Binghamton, New York.

M: Have there been any significant accomplishments you’ve had since attending the Shop? Any goals you’ve hit or plan to hit someday?
D: Since I started at Dane’s I’ve lost a little weight, but definitely have lost inches! My clothes fit better and I feel fit! My goal is to maintain if not improve my level of fitness.

M: What do you do to stay mobile and active outside of The Shop?
D: Outside of classes at Dane’s, I enjoy riding my bike and hiking as often as I can.