Dara Merritt

My name is Dara Merritt. I was raised in a military family, with two sisters, and have no real roots to claim as home. We moved continuously about the U.S. being relocated every few years, until finally settling in the Bay Area in the early 80's. I love California and the Bay Area so much, that I settled in and never left. 

My journey into the Fitness industry began over 30 years ago. I had always been an active kid and dabbled in basketball and track, but after high school I was a bit lost, and wasn't quite sure what to do with myself. I was a bartending college student, out on my own, and had gained quite a bit of weight. I joined an inexpensive, local gym, and discovered Group Exercise classes for the first time. I found myself turning into a front row regular in a "Funk Aerobics" class that I absolutely loved! I was such a regular, and so enthusiastic about the class, that when the instructor was going out on maternity leave, the club asked if I'd like to get certified and take over the class. That moment changed my life forever. I have a strong passion for music. I had a dance and athletics back ground. I was losing the weight I had put on, and was now being given the opportunity to put all of those interest together in a way that not only helped me in my own health and fitness journey, but to potentially help others do the same as well. I got my Group Exercise Certification and happily took over the class. Little did I know that would change the course of my life, and spark what has become a wonderful longterm career in health and Fitness. I graduated from college with a B.S. in Ethnic Studies, but the world of Fitness was calling. I continued to teach more and more, and received certifications in over 20 disciplines and different formats. At the same time, I was trying my hat at being an athlete and entered the world of boxing and triathlons. After suffering injuries from both I stopped competeing but went on to coach and run programs in both disciplines. 

In addition to teaching, I've also been a Personal Trainer for over 25 years, and spent 5 years continuing my education in the sports rehab industry, as I wanted to learn how to train and help others who had suffered injuries. I've been in management for over 20 years, holding postions as Group Exercise Director, Fitness Manager, Programming Director, and my current position of 10 years, as Fitness Director for a private country club.

When I'm not working, I'm a volunteer yoga instructor for a local high school track team, as well as colaborate with a  local church program that helps feed, clothe and transition those who are less fortunate and/or homeless. 

I am married to my best friend and love of my life. We've known each other for over 30 years, married for 20, and have raised two wonderful boys, who are transitioning into adulthood. We have a strong passion for travel and learning about other countries and cultures. We love watching and supporting our local sports teams, and are avid lovers of amusement parks. As my children grow more self sufficient, and my husband and I look towards the next chapter of our lives, my dream is to one day retire from management and be able to put my energy towards teaching and connecting with people through music and movement. If you do what you love, and love what you do, it will never feel like work.