Donna DiTrani has been coming to Highway 54 Pilates for 4 years now. She originally started Pilates because she and her wife purchased several Pilates packages at charity auctions that Highway 54 Pilates had donated. They both felt the other one could benefit because of their aches & pains. And they are still loving their Pilates at Highway 54 Pilates all these years later. I guess they were both right.
When did you start working out at Highway 54 Pilates and why?
I have been going to Pilates Highway 54 Pilates for about 4 years. In the beginning, I did not understand all that it was doing for me. I left a few times, but came back every time, because my body was starting to fall apart. I originally went because I love working outside as I am in the office 5 days a week. I would work 5-8 hrs. a day outside on the weekend. I would wake up the next day and could barely move. I started to get depressed and when I was introduced to Pilates, I was extremely interested to see if it would help.
What I have learned these past 4 years is you really start to understand your body. Each of us have unique bodies and we all do not work the same. Amie really understands how to help you and corrects you to get the most out of a class or a private lesson. The longer you take Pilates the harder it gets, because you start to understand the movements and working your muscles more!
Describe your workouts. How many days a week do you work out?
I like using the reformer and springboard and commit to 2 times a week. I added walking our dogs every day since COVID-19 has forced me to work from home. I have pushed myself working out in the yard and I’ve managed not to injure myself this summer!
What is your current fitness goal?
To be able to keep moving and feel strong. My biggest fear as I age is falling and being in pain. I suffer from arthritis. I used to be a professional bowler, so my feet and hands have suffered a bit. Amie has equipment in her studio to help if you have permanent ailments so you can still participate in class. I am incredibly competitive, and her classes challenge me, and I feel like I’m getting stronger every day!
What has been your biggest accomplishment?
Finally listening to Amie. I had major Achilles tendonitis and realized I was not taking care of my feet. During COVID-19 shut down, Amie provided live video classes and had a special class for feet. I really woke up and started to exercise my feet and now I can do things I haven’t been able to do in years.
What helps you stay on track?
Life is about moving forward and living. I want to live life to the fullest and Amie’s Pilates Studio allows me to have a life that I am enjoying as I age. I look at older folks in public who are barely walking, or in a wheelchair or cane, and it motivates me that I don’t want to grow old and not be able to live the way I want!
What do you do when you are not at the studio?
I live with my beautiful wife of 11 years! A daughter who is almost 18 and 4 legged kids that keep us very busy! I love spending time with my family and friends entertaining at our new house!! I love doing projects around the house too! We love to travel and visit our families!! I am a bit of a techy and try to keep up with the newest gadget!!
Do you have a favorite exercise or favorite piece of equipment?
Springboard Leg exercises! And anything with flexing my feet!!
Describe our studio in 3 words.
Love the camaraderie!!!
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting Pilates?
Stick to it and give it time! Your body will truly appreciate keeping it together! It is worth the investment instead of spending it at the doctor, physical therapy or even surgery! You only have one body and one life!! Quality of life is everything to me and it should be for you too!!!
