If you think fitness is reserved for gym lovers, Lycra enthusiasts, or those suspiciously cheerful 5am risers, exercise guru Donna Groothedde would like a word.
Donna Groothedde’s version of fitness looks very different. It looks like moms rediscovering confidence. Women are realising they are stronger than they thought. And everyday people are learning that movement is not about perfection … it is about possibility.
As the heart behind Donna’s Health & Fitness, she blends science, soul, family life and a healthy dose of laughter into a wellness philosophy that feels refreshingly achievable, even if your current idea of cardio is chasing kids, deadlines or the occasional runaway shopping trolley.
Before she became a fitness mentor to thousands of women, Donna was simply a little girl who could not sit still. “I’ve honestly always loved to move,” she laughs. “I was that child who was constantly outside, riding my bike, running around and testing what my body could do.”
Her love for movement deepened after watching Olympic gymnastics as a child. “I was mesmerised. I nagged my parents endlessly until they finally enrolled me,” she says.
“Gymnastics taught me strength, flexibility and confidence, but more than anything, it showed me how empowering it feels to realise what your body is capable of.”
Even off the mat, movement was part of daily life. She fondly remembers dancing along to her mom’s Jane Fonda vinyl workouts, with ABBA and YMCA still sparking nostalgia today.
A life built around connection
While fitness may be her career, Donna says her family remains her centre.
She is a proud mom to three children, wife to what she describes as an “amazing husband,” and devoted pet mom to two dogs and around 10 bunnies. Her face lights up when she speaks about their shared love for adventure, from hiking trails to overlanding trips across South Africa and beyond.
“There is something incredibly grounding about being in nature with your family and relying only on each other. That’s where I recharge. It’s freedom in its purest form.”
Growing up in a lively, musical home as one of four siblings shaped her belief in connection, honesty and support, values that later became the foundation of her wellness community.
When passion became purpose
Donna remembers realising early that fitness could become her calling. “As a young gymnast, someone asked what I wanted to be one day, and without thinking, I said a part-time fitness trainer. I just wanted to help people feel strong, capable and confident.”
Although she was encouraged to pursue a more traditional career path, she eventually followed her instinct and enrolled in Exercise Science, a decision that quietly changed everything.
“I started helping friends and family after work, purely because I loved it. At first, I didn’t even charge them. Then they insisted on paying, and before I knew it, word spread.”
Sixteen years later, what began as a passion project has grown into a multi-studio wellness community supported by a dedicated team and science-based programmes designed for real-life health.
“Each of our services are trademarked: TaeCross (Cardio Kickboxing and Cross Training), RebounceFit️ (Rebounding Fitness), GoLates (Yoga and Pilates), BounceBlade️ (Rebound Boot) – this is where we incorporate dance but on Kangoo Jumps and SpinFit (indoor cycling). Then obviously CircuitX and pre and post-natal exercise. Because fitness should never feel one-size-fits-all.”
Health that goes deeper than appearance
Donna is passionate about sustainable health rather than quick fixes. “Health is not just what you see on the outside,” she explains. “It’s what is happening internally, from hormone balance to posture and muscle health. When you take care of that, the rest follows.”
Her philosophy centres on building what she calls a happy body from the inside first. “It’s about body, mind and soul working together. When people start recognising how incredible their bodies already are, something shifts. Gratitude replaces criticism.”
The joy of watching lives change
What keeps Donna inspired is witnessing transformation in its many forms. “It often starts with someone walking in saying they hate exercise,” she laughs. “And then they leave smiling.” For her, success is not measured only in physical progress but in confidence regained and barriers broken. “Watching someone realise their body is not their enemy, but their partner, is incredibly powerful,” she says. “Seeing clients tackle hiking trips, races or adventures they once thought were impossible never stops inspiring me.”
Why consistency beats perfection
Donna believes unrealistic expectations often prevent people from starting their fitness journey. “People want results yesterday,” she says candidly. “But the goal in the beginning is not intensity. It is consistency.”
She encourages newcomers to start slowly and allow their bodies to adapt safely. “Commitment doesn’t mean giving 100 percent every day. It means showing up. If you walk through the door, you have already won.”
Movement for every season of life
Donna strongly believes exercise should evolve alongside life stages. For children and teens, movement should feel playful and confidence-building. For adults navigating careers and family life, it becomes a powerful anchor supporting mental well-being and physical resilience. For those over 50, the focus shifts toward longevity and independence. “Strength training becomes essential. It’s about maintaining muscle, protecting bone density and staying capable enough to fully enjoy life.”
Creating a space without judgement
Perhaps the most defining element of Donna’s approach is her commitment to creating a welcoming environment. “In an industry that is often very competitive, and at times even quite nasty, I can honestly say that my team and I have built something very different.
We have created a community where people clap for one another, lift each other, and give credit where credit is due. There is no negativity or drama, only loyalty, honesty, friendship, and open communication. Ultimately, I want people to feel safe, supported and encouraged. Everyone is on their own timeline.”
Her message to anyone hesitating to start
Donna’s advice is simple and heartfelt. “Just start,” she says. “Don’t wait until you feel ready or confident. Start small. Start gently. Real transformation happens through small, consistent actions over time.” She pauses, then adds with a smile, “Every strong body was once a starting body.”
If Donna’s journey proves anything, it is that fitness is not about chasing perfection. It is about building strength for real life, nurturing connection and learning to appreciate the incredible body you already have.
And judging by her contagious energy and deeply human approach, Donna is not just helping people move. She is helping them rediscover confidence, resilience and the quiet power of showing up for themselves.
Donna’s tips for everyday fitness
• Start small. Choose manageable activities and focus on consistency, not intensity.
• Mix it up. Incorporate strength, cardio, flexibility and mobility for a balanced body.
• Listen to your body. Begin at a level that challenges without overwhelming you.
• Community counts. Supportive environments boost motivation and accountability.
• Patience over perfection. Progress is built one step at a time.
Details: donnasfitness.co.za or follow @donnas_fitness on Insta and @DonnasHealthAndFitness on Facebook.
Text: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG. Image: SUPPLIED..
