Current Conversations: Q&A with Khetanya Henderson
Instagram: @khetanya
Occupation: trainer + actress + dancer
Location: Los Angeles
Born and raised:
I'm a Georgia Peach. Born and raised in Atlanta, GA
Can you share your experience with Cirque du Soleil as a dancer and actor?
What a wonderful experience. Oftentimes it felt like a dream job. Worked for the company for 3.5 years in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Mirage Theater and Casino for the show, The Beatles Love Show. I played the character Lady Madonna. 2 shows a night and 10 shows per week. It was a magical time. The artists that I shared the stage with were past and future olympians, LA's top dancers and world famous Clowns. It was a treat every night.
How long have you been a trainer, and how did you enter the fitness industry? Eight years. It all started from my days of being a dance captain and warming up the actors and dancers. That led me into personal training and teaching.
What studios do you currently work with?
Speir Pilates and Hot Pilates
What is the Sxysx “Sexy-Six” program?
SXYSX is a 6 week program designed with a holistic approach to resetting the body and mind from the inside out by way of offering unlimited fitness, nutrition and dance classes virtually. The program is then curated to the specific needs of each client and is supported with 1 on 1 Personal Training and Nutrition Coaching, creating an environment of accountability and guidance. SXYSX wants to celebrate, educate and empower you on your journey to your new SXY self.
I curated this program to include Pilates, Cardio and Strength to bring focus to mind and body connection. There is no time more crucial than now to connect even deeper into your body. Yoga and meditation was included for mental health, recovery and balance. Nutrition and 1 on 1 coaching gives each client an opportunity to dive even deeper into their workouts and nutritional wellness.
Biggest highlight as a trainer?
I love meeting new people, especially from other countries! I had a client who traveled all the way from Australia to take my class. Wow!!
What does a day of relaxation look like, or how do you decompress?
I usually take Sundays and Mondays off. During my time off, I cook a delicious full meal and enjoy a movie or two.
Three lessons learned during quarantine?
1. Breathe deeper. 2. Take a chance on yourself because, why not!? 3. Community is very important.
Within the health and wellness space, are conversations around racial bias and racial health inequity becoming more of a focus –– if so can you expand on this?
I would say that it's become conversations companies, employers, co-workers and clients are willing to have now that there is more focus on it. I think it's important to continue to have these conversations as it keeps pushing us all forward to better understanding with hopes of a better space towards healing.
Quick-fire Q's:
If you had a podcast, what would it be about?
It would be called, "Why not!?" It would be a podcast about trying new things, taking chances on yourself and living your life boldly."
Favorite go-to for entertainment?
Film, so Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime
Current obsession?
Always an obsession: Chocolate
What has been the most rewarding or fulfilling vacation or trip?
Any vacation trip with my family. Last vacation we went on was our trip to Belize.
Any lasting thoughts?
Don't wait for someone to tell you your worth.