shelby donald, mpt
Shelby earned her Masters in Physical Therapy from CSULB, and her Bachelor’s of Science from San Diego State University. She is also a certified yoga instructor (Functional Yoga for Disease), is certified in LSVT BIG and LOUD (Parkinson’s-specific rehabilitation exercise), and is a “Kick Pink” Practitioner for Breast Cancer Rehabilitation. Shelby specializes in helping older adults age gracefully, especially those with neurological conditions, or who have experienced a stroke or other severe illness. Shelby’s infectious energy and passion for the healing power of fitness permeate her classes and training sessions.
A lifetime fan of active adventures, Shelby was inspired at the age of 10 to become a Physical Therapist when she watched her mother rehabilitate from spinal surgery: “I felt it in my bones to pursue a job as a fitness professional, one who could truly help people recover from injury or illness, improve their quality of life, and FEEL GOOD using movement!”
After many years working as an in-patient physical therapist and then the owner of her own private PT practice, Shelby joined the Recreation Fitness team in 2020 as a trainer and group fitness instructor. We are fortunate to have her depth of knowledge and experience, and Shelby enjoys the team atmosphere and our collaborative approach to training.
Personally, Shelby loves a variety of activities to keep her moving: yoga, pilates, hiking, roller skating, gardening and lots of urban walking. “I do a little something everyday, so I can keep up with my dog and husband on our long adventures in the backcountry! Hiking through the forest, desert or mountains for days, carrying all you need on your back, sleeping under the stars and waking up to a steaming cup of hot coffee… this is what keeps me active Monday-Friday.”
PHILOSOPHY
You have to find and participate in the types of fitness that you look forward to every day, so you can keep doing the things you love to do. Also, never take your body for granted – be kind to it, nurture it with good foods and plenty of water, and use stretching as your dessert!
WHAT MAKES YOUR TRAINING UNIQUE?
Using my yoga background, I really encourage my clients within a single session to tune into their body. Whether we are strength training, going through a Pilates flow or mobilizing using Yoga poses or asanas, I am helping guide them through what they are experiencing in their bodies and why it is important. I love to educate my clients within each session so they know the value of the work they are doing, and the importance of showing up for themselves each session.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Training with RecFit clients feels like being with old friends – I learn a little something from everyone, and have shared so many great laughs during classes and sessions. I love helping our clients find what inspires them to move, so reaching their goals is that much easier!