Donna Richardson-Joyner: A Fit Body, A Sound Spirit

Donna studied dance since grade school and grew up in dance and sport since age five. She was always athletic and decided to go into the fitness field. A friend challenged her to an aerobics class and Donna could not back down. She started to enjoy this type of vigorous workout. After training and becoming certified, Donna began teaching at Bally’s and other health clubs. Eventually she opened her own business with former students, housewives, etc. and later produced her first exercise video. Donna expanded her reach by competing in national and international aerobic competitions. In 1992, her career veered into a totally different direction when she joined ESPN as co-host of the ESPN Fitness Pros show. With Nike’s endorsement, she co-starred in her first commercial fitness videotape, Platinum Buns of Steel. Donna grew up in the church. She came to a new level in her relationship with Christ when troubles in a relationship caused her to do some soul searching. She became stronger out of this. Today she is happily married to top radio personality Tom Joyner.