“Donnell is a teacher and a friend. I have met with her at least once a week for the last eight years! She has taught me so much about my body and life. She taught me to lean into sensation, how to not worry about what comes next and that it’s always worth it to show up no matter how late I am. When I went into labor, it was her voice in my head coaching me to breathe through those insane contractions. Donnell is always the first person to text me on my daughter's birthday. When she lived in Brooklyn, she would carry our fat baby around for an hour without missing a beat, instructing us. She believes I can do hard things. And so I believe it too. She is one of those rare people that makes the world a better place because she teaches you to be a better person.”
Benita Antony
“Donnell is an amazing professional who learns about the needs of your body on a week-to-week basis. She adapts Pilates exercises to strengthen and provide greater flexibility to my aging muscles. She has been my go-to fitness coach for over 20 years and I hate to miss even one session without her kind and optimistic guidance.” Trudy Milburn
“Donnell is an outstanding Pilates teacher: professional, knowledgeable, inventive and unfailingly kind. I've been in her class for more than 20 years; it has been a pleasure to see how our practice has evolved over time. I can't imagine a better, more engaged, more encouraging instructor. Anyone who has the opportunity to work with Donnell in any capacity should jump at the chance.” Sarah Ferguson
“Donnell is an amazing instructor. Her knowledge of how the body works and her keen ability to describe the movements in such a visual way, make her classes extraordinary. She constantly gives feedback and makes you better with every class. She is able to modify any movement to accommodate issues you may be having. She seeks input and always keeps her classes interesting , while challenging us to be better. She does this in her unique way that is both loving and encouraging.” April Wexler
“Donnell created a class that is designed for midlife women. The movement and breath work supports the body as much as it does the nervous system. I leave each class feeling stronger, more stretched and open, and emotionally calmer. I always sleep better at night on my Pausing nights.” Ellen Byars
“Donnell has been my Pilates instructor for 15 years. She is an extraordinary teacher, sensitive to my strengths and weaknesses and always suggesting ways for me to improve and strengthen my body through our work together. She is extremely observant, suggesting small adjustments in what I’m doing that have tremendous benefit.” Marlene Gold
“Donnell’s class is absolutely fantastic! Her instruction is clear and accessible, yet very challenging. She pushes her students with such positivity and warmth and is the perfect balance of familiar and professional. I absolutely love her class!” Stephanie De Zengotita
“Donnell is the best! I’ve been attending her Pilates classes for four years and definitely notice a difference. My body feels stronger and leaner. Even my balance has improved. Our one hour sessions are definitely a workout, but not boring and even fun! As someone who has been inconsistent with a workout schedule, Donnell's classes are something that I count on and feel accomplished at the end of the session.” Anne Dwoskin
“I’ve been doing Pilates with Donnell for over 20 years. That says it all. She’s the best!!!!!” Susan Zolla-Pazner
courtesy of The Pilates Garage, BKLYN