Instructor Spotlight- Dana

By Dana Yarn

How did you get into fitness specifically, yoga, Pilates, barre, dance etc.? I was a competitive swimmer and runner in high school and I ran cross country and track in college and that turned into competing in triathlons. I dabbled in teaching mat Pilates and Yoga throughout college at local gyms and the student recreation center, because it made me a better athlete. Upon graduation when I worked in corporate fitness as a trainer and Dietitian they needed help managing the Pilates and Yoga studio and that is when I started my comprehensive Pilates certification, deepened my yoga practice. I never looked back, I fell in love with how good my body felt, I was getting stronger and improving my imbalances and weaknesses.
What do you do for fun? (outside of exercise, etc.) In the warmer months we like to be near water at the lake, by the pool or a trip to the beach. In the cooler months we cook good food and watch football. It is so important to stay connected with good friends, girls nights are a must!
Where is your favorite place? Why? Any place near water, I grew up in Florida the beach is my happy place. We get away to visit family and friends in Florida as much as possible.
What are some of the most embarrassing things that have happened to you while teaching? There are too many to count, one time I got confused about the time an ended class 15 minutes early and no one said anything. There are the typical wardrobe malfunctions, and obnoxious sweat marks too.
What is your favorite healthy food and/or drink? I love a flakey piece of wild caught salmon, guacamole, roasted vegetables, and Caribbean food.
What is your favorite treat food and/or drink? I love pizza, chocolate and wine!
How do you stay motivated? It can be hard at times, especially when I feel like my classes and days are redundant. If I start to feel this way I look for a Pilates or fitness conference to sign up for, I get online and start looking for new choreography or exercises, take another instructor’s class or I will get a new fitness toy to play with at the studio. Switching it up often has saved me from the dreadful burnout. Making your passion your career has pros and cons, I remind myself often that I am truly living out my dream and that simple perspective change works wonders.
Do you have any life hacks? I have a million… food delivery services if I am in an cooking slump help me get excited about being in the kitchen. I also try to listen to or read personal development podcast, audio books, etc. I do better when I am learning and surrounding myself with positive information. Never leave the house without a huge cup of water, and Perfect bars are just as good as cookies without the processed ingredients.

Instructor Spotlight- Dana

Instructor Spotlight- Dana

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