Danielle O’Donnell
What do you enjoy most about being a member at LIFT?
Everything! But if I had to pick, I’d say the overall environment of LIFT. I walk into the gym every day feeling welcomed and comfortable. There isn’t any sense of judgment that I have experienced sometimes in my previous gyms, and every trainer/other member is there to support you. The space is always extremely clean, all equipment is well taken care of and they are constantly introducing new items/ideas to the gym in order to make sure that it’s the best it can be for it’s members. You can’t beat the positive vibe of the gym from the music, to the employees, to the amazing facility itself.
Has your life changed physically, mentally or emotionally since starting here at LIFT? How?
Yes, yes and yes. My physical health is the most obvious change to me, as I’m at about 30 pounds of total weight loss and smaller measurements all around. However, being a member of LIFT has had a huge positive impact on the other aspects of my health as well. I never realized how much my physical health was hindering how I felt internally until I got to the point where I am now, finally feeling truly happy with myself inside and out. I have always struggled with anxiety, and being a member of LIFT exercising consistently and challenging myself daily has helped me to achieve being the best version of myself all around. Being able to see positive changes in myself while working alongside others who want the best for you has been truly a blessing to my life in every way.
What would you say recommending someone to join LIFT?
I always tell others that this is the best gym in our area by far. No matter what type of workout or program you are looking to do, LIFT has something for you. LIFT is the only gym in the area that offers not only the best equipment, but adequate space for any workout that you are looking to complete along with all different type of classes ranging from weights to cardio focus to total body lifting. I know that gyms can be really intimidating for some people, so I really emphasize the fact that there is always someone willing to help you learn or find ways to grade your exercise so that it is appropriate but still a challenge for you. People laugh when I tell them that my gym is my favorite place, but it really is true!
What is something you are able to do now that you weren’t able to do before being a member here at LIFT?
Something that stands out to me as new for me is my general ability to lift. Lift heavy, lift correctly, lift confidently and most importantly lift without pain. I would always incorporate weights into my workouts but I never really truly understood the purpose, difference or technical aspects of the lift. I have had four knee surgeries on my right side, so being able to work out without pain was rare for me. Since being a member of LIFT I have learned so much about what exercises I should be doing and how I should be doing them. I feel comfortable doing a workout while challenging myself to lift heavier and heavier consistently while still protecting the stability of my joints. I owe a huge thank you to Sonia, Jenny, Shauna and Shelby for the knowledge, encouragement and example they’ve given me to be the strongest and most confident woman I can be.
