Finding and selecting the personal trainer who best suits your individual health needs – and personality! – can be a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, we’ve done most of the work for you by assembling a deeply qualified and credentialed team of personal trainers who will help you achieve your fitness goals and commit to a lifestyle of health – regardless of your age, experience or ability level.

Today, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of our fitness team, Danielle Clark – who sat down with us recently to discuss her background, training style and to offer up some fun facts about herself along the way.

Q: Where are you from?

A: “I was born and raised in a small town in eastern Idaho called Idaho Falls, where most of my family still lives today. I moved to Boise for college and earned my bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology from Boise State University. After graduating, I made the move to Southern California to pursue my dream of living in year-round sunshine, because those Idaho winters are cold.”

Q: So is it safe to assume you’re a Boise State football fan living in Trojan/Bruin country?

A: “I’m still a Bronco fan, but a lot of my interest in college football left with coach Petersen’s departure to coach the University of Washington. The rumors floated around for years, but we never thought he’d actually leave.”

Q: Can you describe your background in health and fitness?

A: “I earned my master’s in exercise physiology and nutrition from California State University, Long Beach, then spent time working as an exercise physiologist/research assistant for UC Irvine on an NIH-funded study examining the health of middle school students. 

Currently, I’m working as an exercise physiologist for the Santa Ana College Fire Technology Department, where I assist with the administration of fitness assessments to fire fighters throughout Los Angeles County to ensure they are physically fit for duty. Most of my time is devoted to evaluating internal and external signs of physical health, so I bring that unique perspective to my clients as a personal trainer.”

Q: What do you like most about the Center for Health & Fitness?

A: “Honestly, the people and the environment. CHF has such a community feel, and the members are so welcoming and supportive of each other’s goals. It’s a completely different experience than 24 Hour Fitness or Equinox where it can be intimidating for a person in their 50s, 60s or 70s to exercise. CHF removes that barrier completely, which is really special.”

Q: What can a client expect when they sign up to train with you?

A: “So many burpees! No, I’m kidding. In all honesty, I try to make exercise fun for my clients, because the perception that exercise can’t be enjoyable deters people from coming to the gym. Yes, I’m going to hold my clients accountable, but I’m also going to be a good listener and tailor the training program to fit their unique needs and incorporate exercises they enjoy.”

Q: What is your personal philosophy on fitness?

A: “Fitness is all-encompassing. So just going to the gym everyday doesn’t mean you’re healthy. It requires a holistic approach – working on cardio, using resistance training, improving flexibility as well as committing to a healthy diet and lifestyle outside the gym. I encourage my clients to focus on small changes now that will make a big impact down the road.”

 Q: Have you met the other CHF personal trainers and, if so, will you wear brighter neon clothing combinations than fellow trainer Derick Malit?

A: “The other trainers are really great. And, yes, I think I comment on Derick’s flashy outfits every time I see him. Oh by the way, his color-coordinated ensemble was neon red today. But I just might be able to give him a run for his money with my colorful collection of yoga pants.”

Q: Are you going to be teaching yoga class at CHF as well?

A: “Yes, I’m going to be teaching a yin and yang combo class for all ages and abilities on Friday mornings at 8 a.m. I’ve been practicing yoga for more than eight years and earned my teaching certifications earlier this year. I love yoga, so I’m really excited to get started.”

Q: What is something fun or interesting about your life that might surprise people?

A: “I danced competitively my whole life and actually danced on an NBA D-League team in Boise called the Idaho Stampede for four years.”