Breakups are not fun, but they’re also not the end of the world. For instance, Louisville, Kentucky native Deonna Jeffries transformed her pain into prosperity when she turned to wellness as a healthy distraction. Keep scrolling to learn more about the 31-year-old Holistic Fitness Coach and Influencer who won our March 2021 photo contest. 

Tell us how your winning photo came about? 

This photo is from a shoot for Heart Water an amazing sustainable rainwater company. I loved the purple colors of the bottle, so I wanted to match my look. My sister took the pic near our apartment. It turned out pretty cool!

Please briefly share your fitness journey with us. 

My fitness journey started about six years ago. I went through a bad breakup and was looking for a positive outlet to take my mind off things. I joined a women’s fitness boot camp at my cousin’s gym, and the rest is history. That lead to me professionally competing in 3 bodybuilding shows as a bikini competitor. I then left my government job to coach women and men through holistic fitness practices. 

Favorite quote:

If you don’t like where you are move! You are not a tree. 

We believe fitness + friendship = FUN! What is your favorite group fitness workout? 

I love Barry’s Bootcamp! It’s such a great atmosphere, and the instructors are top-notch. I also love a booty band camp. Planning to host one in my hometown soon (fingers crossed).

While working out is essential, so is eating the right foods. What is your go-to pre-workout meal? How do you refuel after a workout?

I don’t prefer to eat pre-workout. I take Super Aminos 23 predigested vegan amino acid tablets for protein and Can’t Beet This beet juice powder for energy. The amino acids are easy on my stomach and deliver the protein to my muscles without strain on my digestive system, so I show up to my workouts strong and alert. 
Post-workout I love my organic MVP Sport vegan protein shake. It’s chocolate flavored and contains a probiotic, so it’s easy on my stomach but keeps me full until I can get home and make my next meal.

What is one item that is always in your gym bag?

Resistance bands!

What are your top 3 fitness Instagram accounts to follow?

1. @collegecleaneating
2. @bretcontreras1
3. @brittanyperillee

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m quite introverted and may come off reserved in person, but once you get to know me, you’ll quickly learn I’m not at all.

What are your top three goals you hope to accomplish in life?

1. start a family
2. help the black community break intergenerational traumas tied to food and wealth 
3. leave a legacy of love

What does PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT mean to you?

Hmmm good question. I often find this common misconception that pretty women are one-dimensional, lack depth, and won’t put the work in. PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT is a battle cry that I’m more than my pretty face – my beauty comes inside, I work HARD, and I let my work show through the sweat on my skin!

Since PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, what is your favorite deodorant? 

I’ve been using Tom’s natural deodorant, lavender scent, but I just found out about a sustainable brand called Wild that sends you plastic-free refills! So clutch! Gonna make the switch soon. 

How can readers stay in touch with you on social media?

I’m most active on my Instagram @deonna_d. Send me a DM I’d love to connect!