During (Robin’s) first international tour, however, Barnes got hit with bad news. She was diagnosed with a rare strain of a kidney infection that left her right kidney permanently damaged.
“So suddenly, at the age of 23, I can’t drink alcohol, I can’t drink caffeine, I was on eight medications, four painkillers and I was walking with a cane.”
Barnes was encouraged to start working out but had no money for a gym. Instead, she reached out again through Facebook, shared her situation, and asked if anyone wanted to come exercise with her.
“And 10 people I never met in my life showed up at City Park at 6 p.m.,” she said.
Realizing the demand for a free, community-centered exercise option, Barnes created Move Ya Brass in 2013. After self-funding the program became too challenging, she decided to start creating custom fitness events.
“Coca-Cola hired us for Essence Fest, companies hire us for corporate wellness, bachelorette parties hire us,” said Barnes, “and the funding from that helps support free community classes.”