Philadelphia gay fitness
This is the time of year when we go up up out of our pandemic stupor and begin dragging out the summer clothes, gasping as we try to get the zipper up on our 2019 fitting shorts. Okay, I may be projecting, but it is a good time to launch thinking about health and wellness as we initiate entering the world of the living again. I mean, I’ve been out and about amongst people, but I had layers of material to cover any Covid pounds I may have put on. Fortunately, there are people out there who desire to help. Optimal Sports Health Club is a gay owned and operated gym here in Center City. The welcoming staff will put you at ease and then lay you to work. One of the newest members of the staff is fitness trainer Dani Iannone. A trained dancer, Iannone takes a holistic approach that encompasses body, intellect and spirit. We caught up with Iannone between classes. With her speedy laugh and enthusiastic strength, she might even convince this couch potato to come in for her Throwback Thursday classes where participants can shout out song requests. I contain my playlist ready!
I noticed that your area code is not from around here. Where do you hail from?
I’m from Northern New Jersey, just below Ne
On June 1-2, Philly Fitness Pride is hosting a city-wide kickoff event at area gyms, including Barry’s and Cyclebar, to elevate money for the Mazzoni Center. It is a great opportunity to accomplish something good for your body and for the LGBTQ+ community.
Nowadays, fitness is less important for looking good and more treasured for feeling good.
“Sitting is the new smoking,” and the mental and physical benefits of activity can create healthier mind and body issues. As Dylan Van Duyne, an out coach at Barry’s gym in Center City, tells his clients, “Movement is medicine,” adding, “If it feels like a chore, you do not develop good habits. You require buy-in.”
Matthew Shaw, an out yoga instructor at the Fitler Club who also runs a livestream platform and hosts international yoga retreats (matthewshawyoga.com), concurs, “Exercise is an asset to our lives. We should treat exercise or fitness not as a punishment, but as part of our daily lifestyle. Thinking ‘I had a hamburger last night, so I have to work out as a punishment,’ sets up a really terrible feedback loop.”
He emphasizes the benefits of yoga, explaining, “It is a whole body and whole consciousness experience. You will sweat, strengthen, lengthen,