Imagine yourself differently.

Imagine yourself differently.

Train. Every day.

Train. Every day.

Make Your Move.

Make Your Move.

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Get Started

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WELCOME

We are ALL athletes. Life is ballistic and we must train for it.

Being an athlete is for EVERY / BODY not just an elite few.
Your program is defined by your unique body and lifestyle needs.
98% of my clientele train in the comfort of their own homes.

And don’t worry, if you can lay on the floor and make an X with
your body
, you’ll have enough room to workout.

Take control over your physical life. 
Be bold and author yourself
healthier and injury free for the years ahead of you,
 and experience
a richer quality of life and health now.

NEWBIE SPECIAL PACKAGE
Get Started! 3 sessions plus a DWorks Consultation.

HOW WE BEGIN

Orientation

To create the optimal program for you, we begin with a consultation.
It is imperative to collect data regarding the history of your health and any current or past injury issues. Lifestyle, nutrition and current exercise regime are important factors in your customized program. Determinant factors in your program may also include any ongoing care of a doctor, physical therapist, or medical specialist.

Program Creation / Instruction

General fitness programs and instruction can only produce general results.
Your program will be built on all specific facts and conditions about you, customized and aligned to your goals, needs and lifestyle. Training modalities are chosen to yield the greatest benefit and results.
Your program will be as unique as your signature.

Frequency / Commitment / Consistent Growth
Continuity is key.
My clients stick to it because they see and feel tangible changes as they are continually challenged. Your training will be revised as you progress. You’ll constantly be learning.

The number of sessions you train per week sets the working rhythm of your program.
 I recommend 2-3 times per week to maximize results.

About

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Hello there, thanks for stopping by.
I’m excited to talk to you about your transformation!

Philosophy

My goal is to find the distinct pathway into YOUR training. Custom program design and instruction will keep you progressing and thriving. Generic exercises just don’t cut it. The variables, facts and needs your body and lifestyle express conduct the tone and content of your training. This enables you to maintain continuity
and experience consistent change.

I utilize integrated principles from Weight Training, Pilates, Functional Strength Training, Plyometrics, Yoga, Cardio, Circuit Training, Alexander Technique, Flexibility Training and Core / Postural Assimilation to build strong, facile, and injury free bodies.

Experience

As an athlete, Darla has been a dance professional for the past 20 years, and is a recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship in Choreography and a MacDowell Colony Residency. Darla is certified with The International Sports and Sciences Association including certificates in Reebok RNT Flexibility Training, Yoga, Movement Screening, Physioball and Resistance Training. Red Cross CPR and AED certified.

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Testimonials

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We feel fortunate.
“We feel fortunate to have a trainer of your caliber and bodybuilding prowess representing ISSA in New York.”

Patrick Gamboa BS MSS / International Sports Sciences Association

Abs, abs & abs.
Working with Darla was the beginning of a new period of my life. I had been going to the gym (and going through the motions) for years and while I had had some significant gains, I hadn’t been able to get past my plateau. Choosing to invest in 10+ sessions with Darla was a big decision, but once I’d made it I knew I was doing something life changing for myself. Darla’s nonjudgmental approach, boundless enthusiasm and extraordinary wit kept me motivated and laughing – and her famed x-ray vision helped her to see how my body was performing a movement even through my clothes and to correct it until I got it right. She taught me that it’s not always how much weight I was lifting that would determine my results, but HOW I was lifting that mattered. Form is really the most important part, and learning how to recruit the correct muscles for each exercise – and how to always use my abs to stabilize – was the most profound thing I learned. I use this skill and mindset in my everyday life, and at every workout whether I’m on my own or with Darla. Darla’s workouts are inspired and interesting, and always open to revision and progression. She draws on her varied experience with weight training, dance, yoga, strength training, Pilates, and martial arts to tailor our workouts to my exact level of skill and ability. I would recommend Darla to anyone of any age with any level of experience or fitness. There are few guarantees in life, but you can bet you’ll start becoming a new person once you meet and work with Darla.

Frank Gitro

Increased my quality of life.
The work I do with Darla has taught me how my body works. I trained with other professionals in the past but always stopped after a period of time. I could never progress after a certain point and I would develop injuries. With Darla’s guidance and methodology, I have made tremendous progress. There are answers to those nagging areas that never improved previously. I have made tremendous progress with her. I don’t just train at the gym, but I carry that work over to every activity from sports to walking. Also, I find myself self-adjusting around my particular physical needs during group fitness classes I attend. I finally realize why I have not gotten the benefit from that work in the past. Now I am able to gain more from those sessions as well. The work with Darla has increased my vitality and quality of life. I am fortunate to be able to work with her.

Cathreen Brandau

I used to hate gyms.
It is with great pleasure that I acknowledge the changes Darla had brought to my body and my thinking. I used to dislike all gyms. I would start a membership, pay my money and stop going. Darla is one of the reasons why I am staying with my membership. She is now part of my budget on the “must” side next to my rent. Results: I have more energy, better posture, an increase in endurance and my back and knee problems have almost disappeared. On the less visible side, I sleep better and my memory has considerably improved. Most importantly, our sessions are fun. Darla sees everything, you cannot cheat with her, nothing escapes her piercing eyes. Under your loose sweatshirt, Darla can detect the muscle that is not totally engaged. Under her guidance, soon the words, “value”, “abs”, “core” become second nature. She challenges the body without ever adding pressure. She makes you surrender and you do your best to experience the feeling of well being that is unique to a productive workout. Thank you, Darla!. (that is my body talking) I have opened a “Darla fund” for my family at Christmas. No gifts, a contribution to the “Darla fund” will be greatly appreciated.

Michelle Blanchet

Learned more with Darla.
Darla was my physical fitness trainer for several months and I was amazed at her depth of knowledge of the physical body. Being a dancer I have worked with chiropractors, doctors and physical fitness trainers for over 20 years. Not one of them had as much knowledge and patience as Darla or was as generous with sharing that knowledge. I have learned more from Darla about my body than I have than with any one else.

Zoe

I was so impressed.
Before attending that session I had no intentions of hiring a personal trainer but was so impressed with what Darla had to offer that I started doing 3 sessions a week. At that point what I wanted most was to improve my posture. I had been playing guitar for sixteen years and my body was a mess. I suffered neck and back pain and was always slumping and hunching over. Fortunately for me, Darla’s method of training focuses on developing and maintaining proper alignment no matter what else we are working on. Through strength training, cardio, yoga, Pilates, movement based training, Darla has provided the guidance I needed to make fundamental changes to my body. This has affected everything I do from sitting in a chair, to playing the guitar or basketball (not to mention I’m starting to look pretty good). I’ve increased my lean muscle mass by 20% – that’s not easy with a 6 “6 frame. Darla has taught me so much about my body and what I need to do to keep improving it. One last thing. Not only does she know a ton of stuff about fitness and the human body, but she is also smart and damn funny.

Matt MacAuley

Really knows her stuff.
Before: Unmotivated to get out and go to the gym. After: Can’t wait to get to the gym and workout with Darla! Before: Intimidated by the weights and machines at the gym. After: Have been on almost all of the machines and know how they work Thanks to a great education from Darla! Before: Didn’t know where my medial deltoid was. After: Found my medial deltoid and a lot of other muscles, thanks to Darla! Before: Would go to the gym without eating a healthy meal. After: Know what to eat and when after nutritional conversation with Darla! It may sound like an advertisement, but it’s all true. Darla really knows her stuff. She incorporates her vast knowledge of dance, weight lifting, yoga, kick boxing (and so much more) into her fitness training. She also takes the time to get to know you and adapts the days training to fit the condition that you’re in that session. She is supportive and encouraging, and makes the session fun. Her training has been invaluable to me. I have been able to carry on the work that we have done on my own. And if I have questions, her door is always open. I would recommend training with her to anyone who wants to improve their physical well being in a safe and healthy manner.

Sharon DiConstanzo

I got serious and called Darla.
Darla is the best. Not only am I imagining myself differently, I AM different. Every time I try on clothing in a store, or get on a scale, or just get dressed in the morning, a tiny whispered “Thank you Darla” escapes from my mouth. I can’t help it. I know that I did the work, but I never would have done it without Darla. I have gone from a size 12 to a size 6. After going to Curves for a year and actually gaining weight (and no, I didn’t build muscle. I just flopped around on a circuit of two foot square platforms) I got serious and called Darla. I now workout in my own home without any fancy instruments of torture. I do exercises that were designed specifically for me. As I progress, Darla changes my exercises so that I am continually being challenged. I have lost about 30 lbs and I am in the best shape I have ever been in. Darla has helped me with my diet as well as exercise. It’s all pretty amazing to me.

Clare Posnack

Wonderful, charming, and tough too.
There is no one in my life who motivates or inspires me more than my trainer, Darla. She is strong with a beautiful body, a good heart and a fiercely focused brain. Training with her is awesome because I’m physically challenged (always) and she keeps me breathing and laughing all the way thru it. She’s funny — sooooOOOOo funny and simply put: I look forward to my sessions because they are hard, joyful, and insightful. My body was in a lot of pain from stress and misuse and my self-esteem was tragically low. Darla didn’t hesitate to take me on. She believed, every step of the way and continues to believe, that I can take back my life, my body, my health and my happiness. It’s a process (as she reminds me weekly) but when I train regularly I am more in balance. I am — it’s true and I know it. So why train with Darla? Because I’ve never met a smarter or a more charming wonderful woman and she’s tough too. Darla changed my life.

Tami Mansfield

Quite the trainer.
Darla is quite the trainer. I hadn’t worked out in over 5 years. I realized that I would probably need a personal trainer to help get my butt into shape. Now — I am in the best shape of my life. Darla has helped me in so many ways…She taught me what proper form is — the proper resistance to use and how to engage the targeted muscle group to get the most out of the exercise….and a proper diet. I can go on and on. She was always there for me if I had any questions about my workout or eating habits. Her knowledge of the human anatomy and how it translates to physical fitness is impressive. She knows what she’s doing. And most of all, at 7:00 AM — SHE MADE IT FUN. Darla can do wonders for anyone who’s willing to give it their best effort. She has for me…

Brian Friedman

As a member of the U.S. Military.
As a member of the United States military, I was used to doing my work outs in large groups. Despite the frequency of physical training, the sessions were boring and predictable. I decided that the results I desired would only come with a more personal approach to training. As a male, conventional wisdom dictated that I look for another male to train me. After a consultation with Miss Darla Villani however, it was obvious that “conventional wisdom” had been wrong. What struck me about Darla’s approach to fitness was her ability to think of the client’s long term goals despite their desire to see immediate results. It was made very clear that proper technique and muscle isolation was much more effective and beneficial than heavier weights. As a result, I was equipped with the proper fundamentals and tools to sculpt the body I desired. In addition, Darla was professional, organized, punctual, and focused on my needs and goals. What impressed me most however, was her cheerful and down right likeable nature, even early in the morning! Miss Darla Villani has my highest recommendation.

LTjg. Keith J Bushey, USNR

The rarest combination of athlete and aesthete.
Darla Is the rarest combination of athlete and aesthete, who deftly combines her knowledge of the physics of the human body with the art of motivation to create an atmosphere that even the most fitness-phobic people would enjoy. I have always been a canny and inventive procrastinator and Darla found a way to inspire in me not only a change of body, but a change of attitude. She manages to invent a vacuum that exists around you while you are exercising so you can concentrate on your own structure instead of worrying about the pressures of the outside world. Since I began working out with Darla, I have discovered that going to the gym need not feel like “going to the gym” at all. I am an actor and a musician, and Darla made my workout sessions feel as rewarding as rehearsing a play or writing a song. She is a jock with the soul and mind of an artist, and she is perfectly matched to people who identify with either.

Sean Williams

I could have never gone this far.
I am so happy to be writing this – First, I never thought that I would be able to feel as great as I feel or see my body develop beyond what I imagined it could. Working with Darla for the past 3 years has been completely amazing. She has used concepts of connecting mind and body with all the work that we do. The focus is not on “empty repetition,” or “heavy weight,” but more so on alignment, physical connection, breathing and muscular intent. She is accommodating and really listens to what it is her client is feeling or what direction her client desires to move towards. Darla continuously reinforces the idea of becoming healthy as being part of a continuous process that connects nutrition, constructive rest, and stretching and lifestyle adjustments. In the past, I believed that if you worked out hard for one hour in the gym a few days a week, you could get a strong body. Now, I am learning and seeing the benefits of strength training. I am learning to think about what I put into my body, how my body sits and stands, how each and every muscle connects. I could write so much more because I appreciate the knowledge that Darla has enriched my life with. I could never have gotten to the point that I am at without her.

Deanna Caliguri

Great results. Personable. Expert.
I have trained with Darla since 2009 and highly recommend her. Darla’s programs are tailored to the individual, and the results I’ve experienced are outstanding. The level of personal attention that Darla provides is far beyond what I ever expected from a trainer.

Walter

 

Services

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NEWBIE SPECIAL PACKAGE – Get Started!
3 sessions plus a DWorks Consultation / 240.

Package Series Minimum frequency / 2 times weekly
6 Pack @ 90 / 540.
12 Pack @ 85 / 1020.
24 Pack @ 80 / 1920.

Single Sessions @ 100.

DWorks Gift Certificates
Available from 1 – 24 sessions and can be delivered via phone or email complete with your own personalized message. Contact me and we’ll find the perfect fit.

ALL PROGRAMS ARE INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED – however, these packages may inspire you…

Finally Flexible – Calling all computer and desk jockeys…!
Yes, finally learn stretch components specifically designed to release your unique body. Discover the benefits of mastering the methods that unlock muscles and joints and finally relieve you of that pain and discomfort. You will ultimately prevent injury and optimize your athletic performance.

DWorks Consultation
This session is a great starter. It includes body statistics, strength and flexibility assessments, and nutritional recommendations. It’s an immediate way to see where you stand to establish clear goals and momentum towards your training.

Brides Redefined
A new beginning merits redefinition. Many brides-to-be have requests for lean triceps, sculpted shoulders, elegant backs and defined chests. Let’s talk dates and get started.

DWorks Refresher

Heck, almost better than a Lime Rickey. Tired of no results core work or doing the same old chest press? A DWorks Refresher is a great way to supplement your existing workouts with exciting new lines, ideas, and exercises.

Sessions via Skype or IChat
If you’re a current client traveling out of town, on vacation and need to train – you can – anytime and anywhere. This is also a great option for folks living outside the New York City area.

DWorks Lifestyle Coaching
Is your friend or loved one out of town?
Lifestyle Coaching is available via telephone, Skype or Ichat. Formal assessments for each consultation along with recommendations are sent along post-session. Single sessions and packages available.

 

Contact

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Thank you for your interest in DWorks.
Building better bodies in Manhattan & Brooklyn since 2004.

READY TO TRAIN...have questions? Message Darla.
GET IN TOUCH. We’ll schedule your complimentary Consultation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Blog

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Ahoy! Keep your friends and loved ones strong… LIKE, Share and Pin the goodness!

 

Visit our archive

Your Friday Fitness Muse / the computer is changing your body

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  • 17May

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Runners – Change Your Vista

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  • 15May

Fuel your run with a fresh new path. “These are glorious days to run in New York City.The weather has been in that elusive sweet spot, with temperatures we were pining for a couple of months ago and will again a couple from now. Everyone has a favorite route: a jog around Central Park or [...]

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Your Friday Fitness Muse / Spike it!

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  • 10May

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Gift Certificates For Mom!

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  • 04May

DWorks Celebrates Amazing Moms! Amazing grace in action, that’s her. Relentless beauty and generosity, that’s her, too. Support her strength and Ninja skills. Gift Certificates are available from 1 – 24 sessions and can be delivered via phone or email complete with your own personalized message. Contact me and we’ll find the perfect fit. Thanks, [...]

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The Inspired Shopping List / May Seasonal Produce

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  • 04May

What’s Fresh for May. “You’ve heard it time and again, but it’s worth repeating: Eat locally. It’s better for the environment (fewer natural resources wasted and less pollution, contributing to fewer incidents of respiratory illnesses, among other dangers) and for you (fresher, tastier and healthier).” Thank You / Self.com DWORKS / darla@dworkspersonaltraining.com / DWorkspersonaltraining.com Join [...]

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Your Friday Fitness Muse / More Fun

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  • 02May

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Amazing Moms

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  • 02May

DWorks celebrates Moms! Amazing grace in action, that’s her. Relentless beauty and generosity, that’s her, too. Support her strength and Ninja skills. Gift Certifciates available, let me know how I can help you. THANKS, MOM! DWORKS / darla@dworkspersonaltraining.com / DWorkspersonaltraining.com Join & Recommend / Facebook / Linkedin / Google+ / Pinterest by darla dworks

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FITNESS PORTAL

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  • 01May

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The Inspired Shopping List / What’s in your pantry?

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  • 27Apr

…35 ideas for restocking a healthy pantry. “Stocking the cupboards with the right ingredients means you’re always prepared to transform chicken, fish, tofu, or beef into a healthy dinner. We asked four renowned chefs — Jody Adams, Mary Nearn, Michel Nischan, and Nora Pouillon — plus famed nutritionist Marion Nestle, Ph.D., M.P.H., to tell us [...]

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Your Friday Fitness Muse / make it easy

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  • 26Apr

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FITNESS PORTAL

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  • 24Apr

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Think Tank Tuesday

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  • 23Apr

Think Tank Tuesday / insight – inspiration What’s on your mind? Every Tuesday join us on Facebook to submit your fitness & wellness questions, concerns, and curiosities. I’ll be posting these Q & A’s so that everyone can share the goodness! Feel free to extend this invitation to your peeps and LIKE DWorks to receive [...]

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The Inspired Shopping List / foods that soothe

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  • 20Apr

Eat your way to less anxiety and stress – feel better! “There’s no such thing as a chill pill, but some foods contain body-boosting nutrients that help soothe stressed-out nerves. Getting enough B vitamins, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids can help ward off depression. Magnesium helps muscles relax; stimulates production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that [...]

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Your Friday Fitness Muse / Boston

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  • 19Apr

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Love letter to Boston.

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  • 16Apr

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The Inspired Shopping List / fiber

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  • 13Apr

Increase Your Fiber For A Healthy Heart – Stroke Prevention. “Eating high-fiber foods may protect against stroke, a new analysis of research suggests. The data, pooled from eight observational studies, all with at least three years of follow-up, indicated that each seven-gram increase in daily fiber intake reduced the risk of a first stroke by [...]

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FITNESS PORTAL

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  • 12Apr

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Your Friday Fitness Muse / stop thinking

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  • 12Apr

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Spring Training!

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  • 07Apr

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It’s time.

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  • 02Apr

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You, yes, you.

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  • 26Mar

Meet your body right where it is. Don’t sentimentalize it, berate it, second guess it. DWORKS / darla@dworkspersonaltraining.com / DWorkspersonaltraining.com FIND & Recommend / Facebook / Linkedin / Google+ / by Darla DWorks

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Restart. Reset. Go.

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  • 12Mar

This is the time to move with the season. Align yourself with a fresh commitment. Bounce back into training. Your body is waiting. DWORKS / darla@dworkspersonaltraining.com / DWorkspersonaltraining.com FIND & Recommend / Facebook / Linkedin / Google+ / by Darla DWorks

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Retire Your Running Shoes

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  • 22Feb

When to know when to let ‘em go. “So here’s a simple question: How do you know when your shoes are ready for those discard bins in gyms? And if you do get injured, is it fair to blame your shoes? Ryan Hall, one of the world’s best distance runners, used to pride himself on [...]

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