We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Danna Gadalla a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Danna, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
When I first started teaching, I was overwhelmed with self-doubt. I was so nervous about messing up a move or not knowing exactly what to do. But instead of letting that fear paralyze me, I shifted my focus to something I could control: building genuine connections with my clients. I made it a priority to learn their names, remember their stories, and create a welcoming environment.
Of course, I practiced relentlessly to improve my skills, but something magical happened when I started focusing on the energy of the class instead of worrying about what my clients might think of me. I allowed myself to embrace the experience, to lean into the joy of movement and connection. And the more fun I had, the less room there was for those nagging thoughts. Over time, my classes became less about perfection and more about creating a meaningful experience for everyone involved.
Even now, after four years of teaching, imposter syndrome still sneaks in from time to time. I’ll have moments of doubt where I question my leadership or wonder why anyone would want to follow me. But in those moments, I ask myself, “Why not me?” I remind myself that everyone—my friends, my role models, even the most successful fitness leaders—started somewhere and faced their own insecurities. We’re all just people figuring it out as we go.
What keeps me grounded is the refusal to give up. I want to give this journey everything I’ve got. I’m not an imposter—I’m a work in progress, constantly growing and evolving through every success, failure, hiccup, and opportunity. This path isn’t perfect, but it’s mine, and it’s beautiful.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I began teaching Pilates in 2020, just out of high school, during a time when I was searching for something to transform my life. I was battling body dysmorphia and struggling with confidence, caught between societal pressures and a personal disconnect with my body. I felt trapped in a cycle of self-criticism, surrounded by people who judged appearances and undervalued authenticity. At the same time, I realized I wasn’t doing anything to honor or nurture myself.
Pilates became the turning point I desperately needed. What started as a way to get a great workout quickly evolved into something much deeper. It taught me how to love and respect my body while building both physical and mental strength. Through Pilates, I found confidence, learned to command a room, and started moving through life with clarity and intention. This shift was so profound that I knew I wanted to share it with others.
In September 2023, I launched Pilates Hotties to take everything I had learned and create a space for others to experience the same transformation. What makes Pilates Hotties special is its focus on community. It’s a safe, inclusive space where everyone belongs, regardless of their background, body type, or goals. It’s about so much more than movement—it’s about connection, empowerment, and creating a sense of belonging.
One of the things I love most is partnering with local, women-owned businesses in Houston to host monthly events centered on health, wellness, and community. Seeing how Pilates and connection can transform lives, as it did mine, is the most fulfilling part of what I do.
Looking ahead, 2025 is full of exciting changes. I’ll be relaunching my YouTube channel with a series of 20- to 40-minute Pilates workouts and introducing virtual mat classes to make Pilates more accessible to everyone. In May, I’ll be moving to Melbourne, Australia, for a few months to work with a mentor and expand my horizons. I know this journey will allow me to bring fresh energy and new ideas back to Pilates Hotties, making our community even stronger.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I can confidently say that discipline was one of the most important qualities in my journey. Motivation might get you started, but it’s discipline that keeps you moving forward. I think about all the late nights spent brainstorming event concepts, studying for Pilates certifications, or juggling multiple responsibilities. From 2020 to 2023, I was a full-time student working toward a double major in Business Management and Marketing while also holding down three jobs. Since then, I’ve taken on a full-time marketing role at the University of Houston, continued teaching Pilates nearly full-time, and managed every aspect of Pilates Hotties, from event coordination to community building. None of this would have been possible without discipline to stay consistent and follow through on my commitments.
Another essential skill is time management. With so much on my plate, I had to learn how to prioritize effectively and make every minute count. Whether it was balancing schoolwork with teaching or carving out time to plan events, I realized that managing my time wasn’t just about getting tasks done—it was about creating space for what truly mattered. For those just starting their journey, I recommend experimenting with different tools and techniques to organize your day. Find what works for you, and don’t be afraid to adjust as your priorities shift.
In terms of areas of knowledge, having a foundation in social media and basic marketing was transformative. Knowing how to use tools like Canva and simple video editing software allowed me to promote events, engage with my audience, and bring my vision to life. These are skills anyone can learn, and they don’t require expensive software or formal training—just a willingness to practice and get creative.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned the value of asking for help. No one achieves success alone. I owe so much to the support of my family, friends, and business partners, who have stepped in whenever I needed guidance, encouragement, or even just an extra pair of hands. For anyone early in their journey, don’t hesitate to lean on your network. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision, and don’t be afraid to reach out when things feel overwhelming.
Each of these qualities—discipline, time management, practical marketing skills, and the willingness to ask for help—has shaped my journey. My advice? Start small, stay consistent, and never forget that progress is built one step at a time.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely! Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Pilates Hotties and a driving force behind our growth. My strongest partnerships have always been with like-minded individuals and brands that prioritize health, wellness, and community. Whether it’s an athletic wear company that empowers individuals through functional, stylish apparel or a mindfulness expert promoting meditation and mental health practices, I believe every collaboration plays a vital role in fostering a holistic lifestyle of wellness.
These partnerships not only enhance the Pilates Hotties experience but also allow us to extend our reach and impact. From hosting pop-up events to co-creating unique wellness experiences, I’m always looking for innovative ways to elevate what we offer to our community.
If you share a passion for wellness, community building, and making a difference, I’d love to connect with you. Whether you’re a brand, small business, or individual with ideas for collaboration, let’s explore how we can work together to inspire and uplift others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pilateswithdanna/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannagadalla/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0MsglOAJ4lX090ymQpxOg
- Other: email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Lupe Castillo and Brittney Marie Cano
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