Danielle Whitener: Founder & Owner of Freebird Fitness

ABOUT ME

I’m originally from Louisville, Kentucky. I moved to Nashville in 2013 and then made my way to St. Pete in 2021. I’ve always been a sunshine lover—my family had a vacation home in Sarasota growing up, so I knew deep down that one day I’d end up living by the beach. My mom has lived in Sarasota for about 25 years and when life shifted during the pandemic and my father passed in 2021, it opened the door for a big change. Moving to Florida felt right and I’m grateful to be closer to my mom and finally live where the sun shines all year.

St. Pete’s warm sunny weather is my personal power source. I love the eclectic, artsy vibes and the incredible diversity this city brings. There’s always something happening—music, food and art festivals plus free fitness classes at the pier—St. Pete is constantly bringing the community together. And of course, the beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle make it feel like I’m living in a little slice of paradise every day.

My love for fitness started long before Freebird—movement has been in my DNA since I danced competitively for 17 years. I’ve always loved the way movement and fitness make me feel but over time it became less about striving for a certain body type and more about feeling good, feeling strong and taking care of my healthiest self. Fitness gives me mental clarity, peace and so much energy. And honestly, this gig is the best gig ever. Helping others experience those same benefits—and reach their own personal goals—is the most rewarding feeling. Making a positive impact truly fills my heart. All I want to do is inspire people to live a healthy balanced lifestyle… to find beauty in the challenges, to feel the good vibes and to recognize the blessings God gives us every single day.

I decided to open Freebird Fitness because I wanted to create a space that felt uplifting, empowering and genuinely fun—a place where people could come for more than just a workout. I’ve always been energized by sunshine, movement and community and I wanted to bring that same brightness into a studio environment. St. Pete is full of eclectic, positive, vibrant people and I wanted Freebird to reflect that—to be a welcoming space where everyone feels seen, supported and a little more inspired when they walk out than when they walked in. Building a community-driven studio where people can sweat, connect and feel their strongest has always been my dream and Freebird is truly an extension of my heart.

I wish people knew how much heart goes into boutique fitness. It’s so much more than a workout—it’s a space built with intention, community and genuine care. Boutique fitness is for everyone, no matter your starting point. At Freebird Fitness, you’re never a stranger. We get to know you, we cheer for you and we always remember your name. Behind every studio is a small local business pouring passion, purpose and so much love into creating a place where you feel supported, seen and empowered every time you walk through the door.

MY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

I love spending time outdoors around Coquina Key—paddleboarding and kayaking in the Big Bayou are my favorite ways to unwind. I’m also a huge fan of long walks with my dogs at Crescent Lake Park, Lassing Park and around the St. Pete Pier. There’s something so peaceful and beautiful about being outside in Tampa Bay. But when I’m not getting my sweat on at the studio, I love going to Crunch Fitness to lift heavy. It’s the perfect balance for me: bounce, sculpt, Pilates and barre at Freebird…then heavy lifting at Crunch. Best of both worlds!

My favorite unique spot for exercising outside the gym is hands down hopping on my bike and cruising around downtown St. Pete. I love the energy, the sunshine and the waterfront views—it’s such a vibe. I’ll ride all the way out to the St. Pete Pier or wander through the downtown streets and side paths. And when I’m not biking, I’m usually walking my dogs—they love exploring the neighborhood and the waterfront paths just as much as I do. When I want something a little more peaceful, I head over to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. The trails, the wildlife, the quiet—it’s the perfect place to move, breathe and reset.

The Secret Garden at Upham Beach is my favorite hidden gem. It’s so beautiful, magical and whimsical—there’s even a little box for love notes. It was sadly destroyed during the hurricanes, but it has been rebuilt and I’m excited to watch it grow and come back to life.

I’m definitely a coffee-and-café girl! My favorite spot is The Grove Coffee Shop—home of the legendary toasted coconut latte. Truly the best ever. I also love their banana matcha (so good!) and the fact that they have the cutest little surf shop attached. It’s the perfect cozy St. Pete vibe… great drinks, great energy and always a place that makes me smile.

Malai Indian Cuisine on Central has become a favorite. When we first moved here, we really struggled to find great Indian food—and then Malai opened a few months ago. It’s truly the best Indian cuisine I’ve had. My husband and I love it so much that it’s turning into our after-church ritual every Sunday.

I’m obsessed with 11 Chicks on MLK in downtown St. Pete. It’s my go-to spot for a casual lunch or quick business meet-up. I order the Venezuelan Bowl every single time—it’s so fresh, so flavorful and honestly just so delicious.

For breakfast or brunch, I really love Cassis. The menu has so many great options and it’s right on beautiful Beach Drive. It’s the perfect spot to sit outside, enjoy the sunshine and people-watch while you eat.

We have so many amazing restaurants in St. Pete to dine for a special occasion that it’s hard to choose. Some of my favorites are Fortu, Mangosteen, Pia’s, Olivia and Parkshore Grill. There are just so many delicious spots—it makes celebrating easy.

If I were designing a day out with family, we’d grab coffee at my favorite spot, The Grove on St. Pete Beach, and maybe do a little shopping in their boutique. Then it’s off to the beach to soak up some sun. For a late lunch, we’d head to Jimmy B’s on the Beach to enjoy some food and live music. After that, we’d stroll around the St. Pete Pier and finish the day with dinner at Perry’s Porch and ice cream at Plant Love.

My perfect date night is grabbing sushi to-go and heading straight to the beach for a sunset picnic. Good food, ocean breeze and a gorgeous Tampa Bay sunset—nothing beats it.

For an evening out on the town, I’d start the night at a rooftop bar—either The Canopy or Cane & Barrel—for great views and a fun vibe. Then I’d head to Olivia or Fortu for a delicious dinner. To finish the night, I’d hit the light-up dance floor at Good Night John Boy and dance my heart out. Perfect night out.

Vinoy Park is one of my favorite places to enjoy live music—they host festivals all the time and there’s nothing better than listening to music with those waterfront views. My husband and I go to Reggae Rise Up every year and it’s always an incredible vibe. I also love The Floridian and Jannus Live. The Floridian has a really cool Gatsby-style atmosphere and Jannus Live is an outdoor venue in the heart of downtown St. Pete that’s always a lot of fun. I haven’t made it to BayCare Sound in Clearwater yet, but it’s definitely on my list—I keep hearing amazing things.

When I’m not working, I love spending time by the pool with my family and our dogs—they’re basically my little shadows. I’m always playing with them or taking them out for some sunshine. I also love hanging at the beach, cooking yummy healthy meals and hopping on my bike for a ride. Those simple, feel-good moments are my favorite.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.