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Preaching That's Fit For Healthy Living
Rev. Donna James is a multifaceted minister. She is a devote woman of faith, who is also proud of her African heritage, social justice, and fitness.
She does over 15 fitness classes a week looking to increase health in Southeast Queens. I was able to get the busy fitness advocate and minister of the gospel to share with me her unique perspective on her call to get us in shape..
Kamau Austin: What inspired you to go into your present fitness profession or business?
Kamau Austin: What is the name of your company and services you offer in your fitness service business?
Interview With Kamau Austin And Rev. Donna James
Rev. Donna James is a multifaceted minister. She is a devote woman of faith, who is also proud of her African heritage, social justice, and fitness.
She does over 15 fitness classes a week looking to increase health in Southeast Queens. I was able to get the busy fitness advocate and minister of the gospel to share with me her unique perspective on her call to get us in shape..
Kamau Austin: Can you tell us a little about your background and life growing up in Southeast Queens or your hometown? Can you also tell us more about your early life?
Rev. Donna James: I was born in Brooklyn but raised in St. Albans, Queens. I’m from a large family (9 children and the middle, or 5th child). I was Raised by both parents who are currently deceased.
Although being the middle child, I have always operated as the eldest (smile). I attended St. Catherine of Sienna, elementary school and then went on to Fashion Industry HS.
Although being the middle child, I have always operated as the eldest (smile). I attended St. Catherine of Sienna, elementary school and then went on to Fashion Industry HS.
Kamau Austin: What inspired you to go into your present fitness profession or business?
Rev. Donna James: I was what you would call a "Big Girl" for a good part of my life, but I've always loved dancing and at times working out. While living overseas, in South Africa, for three years, I really got serious about my weight and fitness, but unfortunately upon returning home I put the weight back on.
Again, I got into the gym and this time I started taking a variety of fitness classes at the Y and I guess you can say that I found my passion. Having been overweight and then being able to lose it, I wanted to help others who were going through the same things that I did. I knew the struggle first hand.
Kamau Austin: What is the name of your company and services you offer in your fitness service business?
Rev. Donna James: HisTemple (1 Corinthians 6:19) I offer fitness instruction from Senior Chair exercises to Boot Camp for the intermediate/advanced clients, and everything in between. My current formats are: Sr Chair; Low Inpact, Cardio Kickboxing, Boot Camp, SPIN, and Total Body Explosion. Currently I'm studying for my Personal Trainer certification and will also be getting certified in ZUMBA Gold, Kettle bells to name a few.
I will also be training with the Diabetes Prevention Program to be one of their Lifestyle Coaches which will greatly enhance what I'm doing in the fitness area.
