Client Spotlight: Danyelle from Mantra South OC
In this month’s Client Spotlight, we’re thrilled to feature Danyelle, who has been a dedicated member of Mantra South Orange County, CA. Her commitment, energy, and positivity inspire us all, and we can’t wait to share their story!
Tell us a little about yourself!
“I am 45 years old and grew up in Newport Beach. I just recently bought a new house in Rancho Mission Viejo. I’ve lived all over the country and work in Sales and Marketing within the Hospitality Industry, which allows me to travel the world for not just work but also fun. My most recent vacay I spent two weeks in Japan, which definitely has made the top of my list of my most favorite places I’ve ever visited!”
What first brought you to Mantra Fitness, and what made you stay?
“I first signed up for Mantra OC a little over a year ago and the primary reason was to get back in shape. I had gained 85 pounds over the past 10 years and I used to do Lagree Pilates when I lived in NY, but had not been able to find another studio I really loved since I moved back. I’ve been able to continue taking classes on a consistent basis as I really love the instructors and the super friendly and not overly intimidating environment that Mantra OC has created.”
What has been your biggest accomplishment in your Pilates practice?
“My biggest accomplishment since I started with Mantra OC is getting my health back! In combination with a great diet and consistent weekly classes, I’ve been able to lose 77 pounds and I feel like I got so much of my life back. I have so much more energy, I can keep up with my nieces, I can fit comfortably in an airplane seat, my skin looks great, and I can finally see my abs again!!!”
How do you stay motivated to keep coming to class?
“It’s super easy to stay motivated when you see results! I was a former collegiate athlete and have played sports and been a runner my entire life, I see the most changes in my body from this style of workout. I have a permanent lower back injury and this is one of the only forms of exercise that really strengthens my lower back and core and I still sweat and burn lots of calories.”
What’s your favorite Pilates exercise, and why?
“I could not do a plank AT ALL when I first started, and I had to modify almost all of the core work (a few moves I still modify due to my back, but majority I can do). But do I love a good Inchworm! No matter how many classes you take, this move always challenges you! If you are doing it right, you can always shift back in your plank a little further and roll up a little higher in your crunch and really feel the burn.”
How have Mantra workouts impacted your life outside of the studio?
“Mantra workouts has impacted my life positively outside of work – as it has improved my overall health and quality of life so much. It’s so nice to walk without my thighs rubbing together, be able to play 18 holes of golf without profusely sweating, and I love being able to cannonball into the pool with my 2 year old niece! Life is hard enough without having to worry about being so out of shape that you may have a heart attack at any moment.”
What advice would you give to someone new to Pilates or thinking about starting?
“The hardest part of taking back your health is getting started. I mean, I made my parents start taking classes with me so I didn’t feel like the only out of shape person in the class! They also now go consistently and have had amazing results and love it!
Mantra OC has some of the best instructors, Paige and Erin are my favorites! Paige is very knowledgeable and supportive of whatever journey you are on, and will help you get where you need to be. Erin is always great when you want a little extra “shakes” in your class!
If you’re thinking about starting, stop thinking and do it, you’ll be very proud of yourself when the results start rolling in! Nothing feels better than shopping for new clothes NOT because you’re too big for your clothes but because you’re too small.” 🙂
Conclusion:
We’re so grateful to have Danyelle as part of our Mantra family. Her dedication and positive spirit are truly inspiring! Book a class today to see for yourself all the amazing benefits of our workouts!