A Passion Born from Purpose

Joanne’s journey into health and wellness began with a simple yet transformative experience at an early age. At just 12 years old, she was tasked with leading a Slimnastic class, a moment that helped her recognize the potential impact of movement on both the body and the mind. Recognizing this, she committed herself to mastering various fitness modalities. Over the next four decades, her dedication to this field blossomed, earning her respect and recognition as a leader in fitness.

Throughout her career, she embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, always seeking ways to expand what fitness can be. She engaged in extensive training, studied various fitness philosophies, and integrated elements of holistic wellness into her practice, developing an approach that resonates with many individuals seeking a well-rounded fitness experience.

Strength and Resilience

Joanne’s commitment to fitness extends well beyond standard gym practices. She pursued competitive bodybuilding, where she showcased her prowess as a natural lightweight competitor. Spanning from 1993 through 2001, and again in 2004 and 2014, she amassed numerous accolades during her competitions. Her trophies, proudly displayed on her personal “Wall of Fame,” reflect her hard work and dedication.

Her accolades include victories in Bench Press Competitions held at the YMCA locations in Flushing and Brooklyn. Winning first place in several events, she also received prestigious “Best Lift” trophies, a notable honor in the lifting community. Having her name etched on one of these awards serves as a symbol of her dedication to strength training and perseverance.

Joanne’s skills did not go unnoticed in fitness instruction. She was awarded Best Body Sculpturing Class in 1987 and Best Strength Training Class in 1988 by Lucille Roberts Health Club. These early credentials laid the groundwork for a career focused on innovation and continuous learning in the fitness field.

Building a Legacy: Wholistic Fitness NY LLC

Joanne’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Wholistic Fitness NY LLC, originally known as Fitness “R” Us. Over 15 years, she transformed this venture into a space for individuals seeking a multifaceted approach to health, blending fitness, nutrition, and holistic wellness practices. Her philosophy revolves around the idea that achieving well-being can involve harmonizing one’s body, mind, and spirit—an insight she shares with her clients daily.

Her extensive qualifications include certification as a holistic personal trainer and integrative teacher. She holds a B.S. in Health, Fitness, and Nutrition from Empire State University, further establishing her credibility in the wellness industry. As a Senior Level Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine, she continues to share her knowledge and insights.

Media Maven and Published Author

Beyond her contributions to fitness, Joanne has made strides in the media world. She hosts the show Joanne’s Healing Within on Strong Island Television, which airs live on the first Monday of every month. Available on platforms like Roku, iHeartRadio, Audible, and Spotify, her show explores various perspectives on health and wellness.

Her literary contributions are equally impressive. Joanne has published six books, coauthored over a dozen more, and regularly contributes articles for outlets like The Authors Porch and Your Success Magazine. Her expertise and advocacy in holistic wellness have led to her featuring on the cover of notable publications, further establishing her as a voice in the wellness space.

Recognition and Empowerment

Joanne’s dedication to empowering women has been recognized through accolades such as the Woman of Empowerment title from P.O.W.E.R. WOE and Woman of the Month in November. She is also set to be featured in the Winter issue of POWER Magazine, illustrating her impact within the industry.

Her overarching mission is to support women over 40 in developing strength, confidence, and discipline through her specialized approach to strength training. Joanne believes that meaningful transformation encompasses not only physical fitness but also mental and emotional well-being. By incorporating a variety of techniques, she has helped many women embrace their inner strength and pursue their wellness goals.

A Future Fueled by Passion

Joanne Angel Barry Colon continues to contribute to the evolving conversation on fitness and wellness. She embodies empowerment, innovation, and transformation in her work. Whether through her fitness programs, media presence, or literary contributions, she strives to make a meaningful impact on the industry.

For individuals seeking a well-rounded approach to fitness and personal growth, Joanne’s wealth of knowledge serves as a valuable resource. Her work is accessible through her YouTube channel, Wholistic Fitness NY, where she shares insights and guidance. In a world where fitness and wellness are often treated as separate disciplines, Joanne encourages a holistic approach that fosters both physical and mental well-being.

Embracing Holistic Practices for Lasting Change

Joanne’s philosophy extends beyond traditional fitness methods to include elements of holistic wellness. She firmly believes that mental and emotional well-being plays a crucial role in supporting overall health, particularly for women. This understanding has shaped her approach to fitness, encouraging clients to explore how emotional well-being can influence their physical journey.

In her practice, Joanne often discusses the connection between physical exercise and emotional release. She uses the phrase, “Release Issues from Your Tissues As You Release Emotional Weight and Fall In Love with Yourself,” to emphasize her perspective on the benefits of addressing both emotional and physical aspects of wellness. By blending physical training with mindfulness techniques, she aims to provide a supportive environment where clients can work through challenges that may impact their fitness progress.

Joanne integrates various modalities, such as meditation, mindfulness, and breathwork into her training sessions. While these practices are widely recognized for their benefits in reducing stress and enhancing self-awareness, she encourages clients to explore what works best for their individual needs. By fostering a connection between movement and mindfulness, she helps clients develop a deeper awareness of their bodies, which may contribute to their overall well-being.

As she continues her journey, Joanne remains committed to education. Through workshops, classes, and online content, she shares her insights on fitness and holistic wellness. Her presence extends beyond the gym, reaching communities through collaboration with other wellness practitioners. This collective approach helps build a network of support, which many individuals find valuable in their health journeys.

A Transformative Impact on the Community

Joanne’s contributions extend beyond personal training. Her dedication to community well-being has led her to create initiatives that encourage women to support one another in their wellness journeys. Through community workshops, fitness classes, and motivational speaking events, she provides spaces for empowerment and connection.

These events often include interactive sessions where participants can share their stories, challenges, and successes. Such gatherings not only promote physical fitness but also foster a sense of belonging. By encouraging open discussions and shared experiences, these events aim to create a welcoming environment for those on their wellness journey.

Through her work, Joanne demonstrates how wellness can be a shared experience where individuals inspire and uplift one another. The bonds formed within these communities serve as a source of motivation and encouragement, extending beyond the gym or workshop setting.

Looking Ahead: The Path Forward

As the landscape of fitness and wellness evolves, so does Joanne’s vision for Wholistic Fitness NY. She actively seeks to adapt her offerings to meet the needs of clients in today’s fast-paced world. Joanne envisions expanding her reach, utilizing digital platforms to connect with broader audiences interested in holistic wellness.

With plans for new online courses and virtual workshops, she aims to make wellness accessible to individuals seeking guidance, regardless of location. This initiative reflects her lifelong commitment to education and empowerment, ensuring that her approach remains available to those eager to explore a more holistic lifestyle.

In conclusion, Rev. Joanne Angel Barry Colon’s journey—from leading a Slimnastic class at age 12 to building a thriving wellness business—illustrates her dedication to fostering fitness and well-being. Through her diverse offerings, she continues to inspire and support others on their wellness journeys, encouraging a balanced approach to physical and mental well-being.

Follow Joanne:

• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@WholisticFitnessNY
• Website: www.wholisticfitnessny.com 
• Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/healingwithintv 

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by Tom W.