A Trainer Who Understands Real Bodies and Real Life

My Fitness Journey Didn’t Follow a Straight Line

My fitness journey has never been perfect or predictable. I’ve been an athlete, struggled with weight, trained for races and triathlons, and even gone through multiple knee surgeries on the same knee. Like many of my clients, I’ve had to rebuild strength more than once.

What started as a hobby eventually became a passion and then a 20-plus-year career helping people improve their health, mobility, and confidence. Today, I focus on private training because I believe adults over 50 deserve thoughtful, experienced coaching designed specifically for their stage of life.

Experience Across Top Fitness Facilities

Over the past two decades, I’ve worked alongside some of the best trainers and coaches in the industry at Stanford College, Equinox, The Bay Club, 24 Hour Fitness, YogaSource, Orangetheory, and corporate wellness programs, helping hundreds of clients improve strength, mobility, and overall health.

Today, I focus almost exclusively on private training so clients receive personalized coaching and long-term health planning rather than one-size-fits-all programs.

Specialized Strength Training for Women Over 50

Training That Supports Strength, Mobility, and Independence

After 50, fitness goals change. Most people aren’t chasing extreme workouts — they want to stay strong, move comfortably, and keep doing the activities they enjoy without pain or fear of injury.

My training programs focus on safe, progressive strength and weight training combined with mobility and balance work. Sessions are designed to improve muscle strength, protect joints, and help clients maintain independence and confidence as they age.

There are no crash programs or intimidating gym environments here — just smart, personalized training that meets you where you are and helps you move forward safely.

Continuing Education & Evidence-Based Training

Fitness trends come and go, but effective training is grounded in science. I continually study research and professional education through organizations such as NASM, ACSM, Duke Integrative Medicine, Stanford nutrition programs, and leading medical and fitness publications.

My goal is to separate evidence-based training methods from passing trends so clients receive safe, effective guidance that supports long-term health.

Science-Based Coaching, Personalized for You

Fitness Plans Built on Research and Real Life

My coaching approach combines current exercise science with real-world practicality. I continually study strength training, mobility, nutrition, and healthy aging through respected organizations and ongoing professional education so my clients receive safe, effective guidance.

But coaching isn’t just about science. The best plan is one you actually enjoy and can maintain. I work with your preferences, lifestyle, and goals so your program fits into your life instead of taking it over.

The result is a sustainable approach that helps you feel stronger and healthier not just for a few months, but for years to come.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Support for Healthy Aging

Health Is More Than Just Exercise

Exercise is only one piece of building long-term health. Nutrition, sleep, hydration, stress levels, and recovery all play important roles in how we feel and perform each day.

When helpful, we look at simple, realistic improvements to daily habits that support your training and overall well-being.

There are no extreme diets or rigid rules — just practical guidance that fits your preferences and lifestyle.

The goal is to create habits that support strength, energy, and health in a way you can maintain comfortably over time.

My Mission: Helping You Stay Strong for Life

Coaching for Long-Term Strength, Confidence, and Independence

My mission is simple: help adults over 50 stay strong, capable, and confident as they age. Training isn’t just about looking better today — it’s about being able to travel, play with grandchildren, enjoy hobbies, and live independently for years to come.

I aim to teach clients how to make smart, sustainable choices so the benefits last beyond our sessions. My job isn’t just to guide workouts, but to help build habits and knowledge that support lifelong health.

And just to be clear — I’m human too. Some days include rest, pizza, and an extra cocktail. Fitness should support your life, not control it. The goal is balance, consistency, and enjoying the journey while building a stronger future.

Certifications & Credentials

Life Outside the Gym

While fitness is my profession, living an active, balanced life outside the gym is just as important to me. I enjoy walking whenever possible, traveling, gardening in my small outdoor space, and cooking healthy meals at home.

I also love taking classes myself, from strength training to boxing and mobility-focused workouts, because staying curious and continuing to learn keeps fitness fun and sustainable. And when I’m not working or training, you’ll usually find me spending time with my husband and our very entertaining cats.

I believe fitness should support real life, not take it over. My goal is to help clients build strength and confidence so they can fully enjoy everything they love to do outside the gym.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If Donna’s approach feels like the right fit, the next step is a short introductory conversation. No pressure — just a chance to see if working together makes sense.