Shazzy Fitness Christian hip-hop dance team member, Dinah Farrell, talks about the importance of being fit after 50.
Dinah Farrell is 61 years old and was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She is currently very busy working full-time as an assistant to a psychiatrist and spending quality time with her two adult children - but still finds time to include fitness in her busy schedule. I loved working with Dinah, because she has a determination and confidence in who she is, that is very hard to find these days - at any age. It was an absolute joy working with her, and I hope our paths cross again when we start filming our next video series.
Enjoy!
Why is fitness important to you?
As far as fitness goes, I really value my time to myself because sometimes I work 2 or 3 jobs. Staying fit plays an important part in that time to myself. Whether it is going to the gym or just going to the park and walking. I am dedicated to walking and running at least once a week. I always try to keep sneakers readily available so I have no excuse. I even pack a bag and keep it in my car. I just don’t feel good about myself if I don’t work out regularly.
How did you find out about Shazzy Fitness?
I used to take dance classes with Apollo and I heard that Shazzy Fitness was looking for people to audition. I thought it’d be fun so I decided to try out.
Tell us about your experience preparing to film Shazzy Fitness.
We had to learn dance routines and everything. We practiced once, sometimes twice, a week. I don’t think I ever missed a practice. I was really dedicated to Shazzy and I didn't want to let everyone down. I was just really happy to be a part of it.
What was your favorite experience while working on the Shazzy Fitness DVD?
Really the instructors. They were so fun to watch and interact with. They have such great personalities and I think people fed off of that.
Tell me about your interaction and relationships with the other dancers. The instructors? Kristy?
When Kristy came into our practices, it really added a level of professionalism to the whole thing. She shared her expectations and it really made me want to do my best. I often headed to rehearsals after working out for 2 hours and even though I was pretty tired, she made me want to shape up. I wanted to put as much energy into it as she shared with us. She constantly told me that I could do it and that gave me a lot of confidence.
What is your biggest take away from working on this Christian dance fitness and exercise DVD?
Kristy and the instructor’s philosophy on life. You can tell that fitness means a lot to them. Participating in Shazzy also made me feel more alive. It gave my life more depth and substance. Glorifying God and being able to move and take care of my temple was so rewarding.
What do you like most about Shazzy Fitness Christian hip-hop dance workout DVDs?
I really love the music. The Christian hip-hop music is so up to date and really made it fun. It was different and inspiring and I’d leave practice still hearing it play in my head. Sometimes I put my DVD in just to listen to the music. The moves are also fun. They helped me set aside my physical needs and made me feel younger. I loved the belief behind it and all of the nice people involved.
Why do you think it is important to be fit for seniors? Why is senior health and fitness important?
Oh I think it’s very important. Sometimes you can get stiff at my age so it’s important to get up and get everything oiled. It’s going to happen to everyone blessed to live as long as I have. I really believe it is a vicious cycle. The less you do, the less you’ll be able to do in the future. As the popular phrase goes - if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.
I know there are many people who have limitations. It’s important to work around those limitations. Eating well and taking vitamins is important.