Member Spotlight: Donna Manders

How long have you been a member at Ballard Health Club? 

I have been an active member for about a year! (I joined the club for a while during the pandemic and did not actually participate due to the public health unknowns at that time. That membership doesn’t really count)!

Why do you work out? 

I work out because exercise keeps me smiling and feeling great! I know from experience that when I attend any class at BHC I will enjoy a guaranteed mood boost and sense of accomplishment.

Also, I like outdoor activities that require a certain level of fitness to enjoy, such as hiking, canoeing, and camping. Working out ensures that I can keep doing my favorite things. 

When you are at the gym, what do you do to work out?

I regularly attend the classes at BHC. The instructors are amazing! I have learned so much about using correct form when exercising and how doing a variety of exercises over time can lead to whole-body strength, improved balance, and endurance. 

What at BHC has worked for you for attaining your goals?

The knowledgeable and supportive BHC instructors know how to create welcoming and friendly classes — that keeps me coming back for more. Working out with others in classes has really been fun and inspiring!

For example, I was not too sure about the idea of lifting weights , but when everyone else was doing it, I realized I could do it, too!

I can see how this type of strength training has really “upped my game” on outdoors adventures that require strength, agility, and endurance.

Why do you choose to work out at BHC?

I appreciate the friendly community atmosphere that pervades BHC and the professionalism, skill, and encouraging leadership of the staff. The club has a combination of attributes that makes it a wholesome and productive place to pursue and maintain fitness.

I highly recommend it to all!

What is your favorite piece of equipment, exercise, or class to do in the gym or at home?
Right now I am focusing on Kyle Hyde's Fit Camp, Brenda Savage’s Total Body Strong and Rachel Lubneiwski's Fit Camp. I want to send a big “shout-out” to instructors Ivana Petro, Ivonne DePauli and Tracy Perkins, too! I love each of these instructors' in-person classes! Their virtual classes are fantastic, too.

Anything else you’d like to add?
If you want professional guidance and support to reach a personal goal, I recommend signing-up a for personal training sessions at BHC. I have benefitted greatly from taking just three personal health, wellness, and exercise coaching sessions at BHC! Even just a few sessions can make a difference!

Hiking in Bears Ears National Monument

May, 2024