If you’ve ever had a fitness coach, you might be familiar with the feeling when you see them coming… suddenly you’re very interested in going the other direction. There’s always that fear they’ll guilt you into your next workout.
Shaunna Mara isn’t that kind of trainer.
“When people see me, I don’t want them to feel like they have to talk about exercise,” she says. “I just want to have a conversation. I want to get to know them.”
Since joining RiverWoods in the late summer of 2025, Shaunna has taken a different approach to working out. In just a short time, she transformed the fitness program at RiverWoods Manchester, expanding it from just a couple of classes into a full schedule designed to meet residents exactly where they are.
Shaunna’s classes are rooted in relationships first, movement second. “I don’t want a robot class. I want energy, people talking, connecting, enjoying themselves. That’s what keeps them coming back.”
Today, residents can choose from a wide range of offerings throughout the day: high-energy cardio classes, strength-focused sessions like Vital Sculpt, gentler options like Tone Your Bones, yoga and Pilates blends, and chair-based programs designed for those building confidence or managing a fear of falling.
In her classes, even small movements carry meaning. Shaunna’s fitness philosophy includes explaining the “why” behind each movement. For example, a quick change from one step to another isn’t just physical, but also mental. “You’re firing neurons,” she explains. “You’re working your brain just as much as your body.”
That connection between physical and cognitive health is something Shaunna is deeply passionate about. In addition to fitness classes, she’s introduced “Mind Aerobics,” a collaborative puzzle-based program that challenges residents in new ways. “It’s not crosswords or Sudoku,” she says. “It’s problem-solving together. And it’s so much fun to watch because everyone has different strengths.”
Whether she’s stopping by breakfast to chat, organizing an impromptu walk, or helping someone feel comfortable using a piece of equipment for the first time, she’s focused on meeting people where they are.
And speaking of equipment, residents may have noticed some exciting changes in the fitness center.
“We had a lot of cardio machines, but not enough accessible strength equipment,” Shaunna explains. “Now we’ve added a leg press, a leg extension machine, and a simpler cable machine that’s much easier to use.”
The result?
“I’m seeing more people come into the gym and actually want to use the equipment,” she says. “And that’s huge because strength training is so important as we age.”
Her work is also gaining attention beyond RiverWoods. Shaunna has been invited to present at the LeadingAge ME/NH conference as part of their Innovation Exchange. Her session, Beyond the Fitness Floor, reflects her belief that fitness isn’t just about exercise. “It’s about living your life: walking to the dining room, visiting a neighbor, feeling confident enough to get out of a chair.”
Outside of work, Shaunna brings that same energy to her own life. She trail runs, walks her five dogs, and chops wood.
“I come to work to rest,” she jokes.
And for anyone considering a move to RiverWoods, she offers this advice: “You’re in control of your life here. You can do as little or as much as you want. But the opportunity for connection and socialization makes all the difference.”
Because in Shaunna’s world, fitness isn’t just about strength or stamina. It’s about community.
And maybe, just maybe, looking forward to seeing your trainer in the hallway.
About Humans of RiverWoods
Humans of RiverWoods is an ongoing storytelling series that celebrates the vibrant, diverse, and inspiring individuals who make up our RiverWoods communities. Through candid interviews and personal snapshots, we share the everyday moments, meaningful experiences, and unique journeys of our residents and team members.
Learn more about RiverWoods’ career opportunities here: https://riverwoodsnh.org/our-story/careers/