DI trainer combines virtual workouts with a sense of community

The COVID crisis makes it hard to keep fit and even harder to meet friends. 

 

Daniel Island resident Jennifer Davis, owner of JD Fitness and a certified personal trainer, has found a way to combine both. 

 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Davis ran a workout studio in her garage. When the pandemic forced her to close down she decided to stream live workouts on Facebook.

 

“A client reached out saying you should do a live stream. I immediately shot it down saying that’s not my thing. I don’t want to be on camera, that just seems so out of my comfort zone.” 

 

But Davis took a chance and JD Live took off, creating a unique community of workout warriors.  

 

“Anyone can plug into a YouTube workout and get just that, a workout. When you join a JD Fitness LIVE session, you get an experience,” she said. “You have personal shout-outs. You feel like you are actually part of a class experience, with 30 to 40 others right beside you.”

 

Katherine Delman was a client of Davis for about five years. When the shutdown happened she was thrilled to continue staying fit virtually.  

 

“JD Fitness has honestly been the only thing that has gotten me through,” said Delman. “The camaraderie of fellow JD Fitness members is certainly motivating, seeing who logs in ‘live’ each day and how everyone cheers each other on! We have an amazing support system.”

 

Daniel Island resident Sally Niemer enjoys “talking” to others online, discussing everything from workouts to Davis’ stylish outfits. Davis is an ambassador for Lululemon in Mount Pleasant and she brings a burst of style to every session.

 

Niemer even connected with a new neighbor through the group. She appreciates the new friendships and the program’s versatility.  

 

“I love how flexible JD Fitness Live is,” she said. “While I am usually in my garage, I can take my iPad when traveling and fit a workout in.”

 

Client Erin Turner quickly became a part of the Facebook workouts. 

 

“It’s such a great outlet for the nerves of going through a pandemic,” Turner said. “During the working out you felt like you were part of a group, when we were all very isolated. It is an added bonus that you hear her mentioning names and pushing people, as a result it keeps me engaged.”

 

Alisa Bee says having a virtual community in her home is highly motivating. “We all support, cheer and encourage each other which makes it so much fun! I was blown away by the community, they are all super dedicated and wonderful people…The JD Fitness community has been a big blessing to me.”

 

Amanda Reeves says Davis’ workouts have helped her remain fit during the stay at home orders.

 

“When the pandemic started, I decided to give her workouts a try because she was live streaming them through Facebook,” said Reeves. “It was super convenient and I didn’t need a lot of equipment. I love getting shout outs! I feel like she is talking to me when I’m starting to get tired.  My kids love it when she gives me shout outs during the workouts, too.”  

 

To learn more about the program, go to facebook.com/JDfitnessCharleston.