Take the leap, make the choice
If you’ve ever thought it might be too late to start something new or own your own studio, Danijela Iacono is a testament to the fact that you can step completely outside your comfort zone, go for it, and reap endless rewards.
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In the whirlwind of new motherhood, where every moment is filled with wonder and exhaustion in equal measure, Danijela found her calling. It was during this transformative time, when new mothers seek support and guidance the most, that the seeds of Danijela's passion for fitness were planted, laying the foundation for her eventual role as the proud owner of Lean Bean Fitness, a barre and mat pilates studio located in the heart of Bondi Beach.
"It was almost nine years ago when I stumbled across Lean Bean," Danijela recalls. "Lizzie, a passionate instructor, ignited my interest in fitness with her invigorating bootcamp classes by the beach." However, it wasn't until Lean Bean opened its doors in Bondi that Danijela completely immersed herself in the studio.
Danijela's transition from a background in PR/Marketing and retail to the world of movement came just before the first lockdown in Sydney. "Lockdown let me share my love for fitness with others," she reflects. Armed with determination and fueled by her newfound passion, she obtained her Barre Certification through Barre Body in Byron Bay, Australia.
"The lockdowns presented both challenges and opportunities," Danijela acknowledges. While the world paused, she seized the moment to hone her skills. "By the second lockdown I began filming my own lunchtime classes and coaching PT clients in Bondi or my garage," she explains. "It ignited my love for creating a community."
Danijela's story is a testament to the power of resilience and reinvention. "Take the leap, make the choice. I know how hard it is to start at something new, something out of your comfort zone and unfamiliar. I have been married twice, I had 2 boys later in life, I changed my entire career path at 41 and bought a studio at 46 and I don’t regret it for one minute. In my view, you cannot fail if you try."
With almost three and half years of teaching under her belt and certifications in Barre, Mat Pilates, and Reformer training, Danijela continues to evolve.
"Barre, in particular, holds a special place in my heart," Danijela shares. "The graceful yet powerful movements resonate with me." But her journey isn't just about personal growth; it's about uplifting others. "Be stronger than your excuses," she reminds her clients, "and remember why you started."
"Knowledge is not just a tool; it's a pathway to excellence," Danijela emphasises. She immerses herself in online classes, attends training sessions, and hosts workshops for her team. "I believe in continuous learning," she mentions.
"Outside the studio, my life is a balance of movement and moments of joy," Danijela shares. Whether she's exploring farmers markets with her family or indulging in a late lunch followed by an early movie night, she savours every moment. My friends would describe me as green juice with a shot of vodka type of girl,” she shared.
As for her family's understanding of her work? "Let's just say there have been moments of bemusement. I had to bring my boys to class – on separate occasions because I’m a working mum and it’s school holidays and I remember being so proud to teach in front of them and show them what I’m made of…Well, let’s just say they were less than impressed. I was even focusing on the fact that EVERYONE listens to me and my cues and does exactly what I say. You can imagine how that went down.
Through all life’s twists and turns, it’s clear that Danijela's passion never falters. She's all about staying positive, focused, and disciplined in everything she does. Her journey teaches us that greatness doesn't have a rulebook. "Follow what lights you up," she advises, "and let your story unfold."
Danijela owns Lean Bean Fitness in Bondi Australia and was awarded Winner Best Fitness Studio 2024 by Classpass and Best Online Workout in 2020.