From the nurse and the grocer to the teacher and landscaper, the Upper Keys community can’t thrive without the skills and talents of local workers who serve, produce, repair, research, advocate for, fundraise or build. We like to call them the “Mile Makers.”
The third “Mile Maker” of 2025 is Danielle Harrison, founder, lead instructor and the heart of Keys to Wellness Group Fitness in Key Largo.
How would you describe yourself? I’m a passionate, high-energy wellness advocate who believes in the power of movement, community, and second chances. After a personal health transformation, I turned my life around and created my own group fitness brand to help others do the same — physically, emotionally and mentally. I’m a nurse practitioner, a fitness instructor, a proud Navy veteran and a mom. I love lifting others up, whether it’s through a sweaty Zumba class, a motivating speech or just being there when someone needs support.
How did Keys To Wellness get started? Keys to Wellness was born out of my personal journey. A few years ago, I weighed over 265 pounds and was battling severe asthma, high blood pressure, pre-diabetes and other health issues. After a two-week hospital stay, I knew something had to change. With medical support, a low-carb lifestyle and eventually discovering Zumba, I lost over 100 pounds and transformed my life. That journey inspired me to create a space where others could feel safe, supported and empowered to take control of their health too. In June 2021, I officially opened Keys to Wellness Group Fitness in the Upper Keys.
How did you get into fitness? Were you always interested in health and fitness? Honestly, no — I wasn’t always into health and fitness. For a long time, I struggled with my weight and health. I was more focused on taking care of others as a nurse and a mom, and I didn’t prioritize myself. It wasn’t until I got really sick and ended up in the hospital that everything changed. I realized I needed to take control of my health not just for me, but for my family. I started with small changes, eventually found a love for dance fitness, and from there, my passion for wellness just kept growing.
How does one become a fitness guru? Becoming a fitness guru isn’t just about having the perfect body or doing fancy moves — it’s about passion, consistency and a deep desire to help others feel their best. First, it starts with truly loving wellness and movement. Then, you need to obtain the right licenses. I hold several group fitness licenses, including Zumba and Strong Nation, but what really sets me apart is my background as a board-certified nurse practitioner. That allows me to approach fitness with a deeper understanding of the body, chronic conditions and how to modify workouts safely for people of all ages and abilities.
What is your least favorite exercise to teach (but you know you gotta do it)? Burpees. No doubt! I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with them. They’re intense, challenge your entire body, and most people groan when they hear the word — including me. But the truth is, they work.
What is your favorite exercise to teach, and why? Hands down — Zumba is my favorite! There’s just something magical about the energy in a dance fitness class. It’s fun, it’s uplifting and people forget they’re even working out because they’re having such a good time.
What are some challenges you encounter in teaching fitness classes? One of the biggest challenges is meeting everyone where they are — physically, emotionally and mentally. In one class, I might have beginners, people managing injuries, advanced athletes and those just coming back after a long break. It takes creativity and awareness to make sure everyone feels included, safe and challenged in the right way. Another big challenge is consistency and attendance. That’s why I always stress the importance of showing up when you can, staying connected and having accountability. I remind my team: it’s not about being perfect — it’s about coming back.
What is your advice for people just starting out in improving their fitness? Start small, stay consistent and be kind to yourself. You don’t have to do everything at once or be perfect — just begin. Even showing up is a win. Find something you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, fitness-based classes, core or stretching, and build from there. Consistency is key, and accountability is everything. You didn’t get where you are overnight, and you’re not going to change overnight either. Give yourself grace but also hold yourself accountable.
What’s your fitness philosophy? My fitness philosophy is simple: move with purpose, lead with heart and show up for yourself. Fitness isn’t about chasing perfection — it’s about building strength, confidence and a better quality of life, one step at a time. I believe in progress over perfection and that everybody is a fitness body.
You don’t have to be the fastest, the strongest, or the most coordinated. You just have to be willing to try. I believe in creating a welcoming space where people feel empowered, encouraged, and celebrated at every level.
I also bring my background as a nurse practitioner into every class—so safety, proper movement, and listening to your body are at the core of what I teach. Fitness should heal, not hurt. It should lift you up, not wear you down. Most importantly, I believe fitness should be fun! When you find joy in movement, it becomes something you look forward to—not something you dread. That’s the magic I try to create at Keys to Wellness.
What’s your favorite music genre whilst teaching Zumba? Oh, that’s a tough one because I love mixing it up — but if I had to choose, Latin music definitely holds a special place in my heart. There’s just something about the rhythm, the energy and the way it moves the room. Reggaeton, Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, Cha Cha — it brings the heat and makes people feel alive and sexy! That said, I also love to blend in other genres like Hip-Hop, Afrobeats, Pop, Soca, Samba, Line Dance, and even a little throwback here and there. My goal is always to create a party vibe where everyone can let loose, feel good, and forget they’re even working out. If the music makes you smile, shimmy, or shout “Wooo! Wooo!”—then I know I’m doing something right.
What three qualities does a fitness expert need to possess in order to be effective?
• Passion – You must love what you do, because that energy is contagious. When you’re passionate about helping others and truly believe in the power of fitness, it shows—and it inspires people to keep showing up for themselves.
• Knowledge – It’s more than just knowing how to move—it’s understanding the why behind it. Being effective means having education, experience, and, in my case, a medical background as a nurse practitioner to guide people safely. It’s about knowing how to modify, prevent injury, and support people with all kinds of health needs.
• Empathy – Everyone walks into a class with a different story, struggle, or goal. A great fitness expert meets people where they are, encourages them without judgment, and celebrates every victory, big or small. People don’t just need a coach—they need someone who cares.And above all—you must live the walk. Your team watches you, so lead with integrity. If you say fitness is a lifestyle, then live it. If you say water over soda or alcohol, then drink the water. If you talk about mindset, motivation, and showing up—you better show up, too.Your example is the most powerful tool you have. When your team sees you practicing what you preach, it builds trust, respect, and a deeper sense of community.
Keys to Wellness is located at 835 Largo Road Key Largo.
