Meet our Instructors
Jenna Rose, High Fitness
I am Jenna and I teach High Fitness- a fun, high-energy dance party workout for all fitness levels! I have taught group fitness for more than 20 years, including a variety of strength and cardio-based classes. When I am not teaching, I also work as a communications consultant who specializes in renewable energy and the bioeconomy. I live in Columbia with my husband and two sons. I joined the Southern Boone Area YMCA to bring the High Fitness program to more participants in the Mid-Missouri area. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and try something new, come party with me and the High Fitness crew!
Sarah Garrett, Boot Camp and Rhythm & Ride
I am a lifelong resident of Ashland and graduate of Southern Boone and the University of Missouri. My husband and I have 3 girls: 13, 12 and 9 year-olds.
My love for health & wellness began as a kid. I loved sports growing up and enjoyed being active. I played basketball and golf in high school. Then after high school, I activated my first gym membership at the first gym in Ashland. When a small group in Ashland spread the word that they were interested in starting a Y, I knew I wanted to help. I have been involved with the SBYMCA since its inception, serving on the Advisory Board for 10 years in the roles of Secretary and President.
Through the years, my love for fitness has increased and evolved. Running became my go-to cardio because I could run from my home, go into town, or get on a treadmill. After a foot injury, I quit running as much and began indoor cycling, which led to my role teaching Rhythm & Ride. I am an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and a Certified Schwinn Indoor Cycling instructor. I really enjoy teaching group exercise because it allows me to reach so many people through one class experience, and it provides a sense of community.
In addition to teaching classes at the Y, I am the CFO of Bullard Seed Company and Bullard Family Farms. In my free time, I am a logistics coordinator and chauffeur for my children, enjoy watching my kids at all their sporting activities, and proudly support MU sports! As a committed sports fan and active member of this community, I strive to continue providing quality fitness instruction for the great members of this YMCA.
Donna Wren
Let me tell you a little bit about me! I have lived in Ashland all but 8 years of my life. I lived in Colorado 2 different times and loved it, but I always wanted to “come home.” I am a country girl who loves the outdoors, tending my numerous flower beds, and spending time with my 3 kids and 6 grandkids. I’ve always been an active person and kind of fell into this Silver Sneakers instructor opportunity on a whim. When the previous instructor left, she challenged me to apply for the position. I had been in her classes for a few years and enjoyed the workouts and positive impact they made on me physically and mentally. I have now been employed at the YMCA for about 6 years. The classes I lead are Silver Sneakers Classic (using weights, bands and balls), chair yoga, and floor yoga. I am self-taught, certified through Trivity Health, and have studied on my own to ensure I am always giving my participants a variety of exercises to keep them moving, building strength, and improving balance. I am always open to them for questions and any concerns they might have along their personal health journeys. We work hard but also laugh and have a great time while doing so. The workouts are important to us, but so are the genuine friendships we have developed. To me, my classes are like family.
Lisa Dehner
I have been a student of yoga for 14 years. My yoga mat is a place of freedom from the chaos of life. Yoga allows me to release all the tension in my body and relax my busy mind. At the end of every class, I feel centered and energized. My goal is to provide a space where each of my students can experience this release and renewal. My curiosity and passion for yoga continues to grow and fuel me in my personal practice and in my teaching. I received my 200 hour RYT Certification at Sumit’s Yoga in Columbia MO in 2021. I am always working to expand my knowledge and take additional certification hours. I believe physical movement can transform an individual with consistency and determination. Yoga, or any type of fitness, can fully transform the body-but more importantly-the mind too. Movement on my mat allows my stress to melt away, builds confidence within myself, and always lifts my spirit. Fitness is the greatest mood enhancer and provides a path for a healthy future as one ages. Fitness is the key to longevity and wellness. I love to witness the journey of yoga for each of my students. I look forward to seeing you on your mat! Let’s flow together!
“There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that’s your own self .” –Aldous Huxley