When LaWanda Brokenborough started her mobile personal training business from the ground up, comfort was the last thing she was feeling.

Brokenborough, then 216 pounds, was bartending, waiting tables and miserable. “I was overweight and underpaid,” she joked.

Now affectionately known as “the Fitness Diva,” Brokenborough decided to step out on a limb involving some serious life changes. Her “aha” moment came when she realized that by teaching aerobics, she could have a job she liked, lose weight and make money at the same time.

“When I got the idea, I had never taken a single fitness class before. The extent of my workouts included me in the living room with my mom watching Jane Fonda,” she said.

Eleven years later, she leads an average of 32 group fitness and dance classes per week. She teaches at Pera Dance Studio and Athletic Club Northeast in Atlanta, Just Fitness 4 U in Roswell, and Riverdale Community Center. Her repertoire includes kickboxing, step, salsa, yoga, boot camp, aerobics, and water aerobics. She also holds more than 10 certifications, leads weight-loss support groups for teens and adults, and conducts fitness and dance choreography workshops and lectures.

On Jan. 26, she and her Zumba Crew will demonstrate an energetic routine in the Fitness FaceOff at Cross­Roads­News’ 2013 Health & Wellness Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Brokenborough, who favors the high-energy workout that mixes Brazilian, Latin and African dancing, will be one of eight fitness instructors and personal trainers who will showcase how they keep clients fit and motivated.

This is her second attempt to claim the crown of Fitness FaceOff Champion. She also competed in 2012.

The Fitness FaceOff begins at 1 p.m. on the Main Stage in front of Sears.

Brokenborough said being healthy and active should be everyone’s goal every day. “When you’re not fit, it creates a plethora of health problems. The human body was made to move.”

To be beneficial, she said the movement has to be purposeful.

“I see so many people working out in classes and staying comfortable,” she said. “They can lift a 10-pound dumbbell, but because it’s easier they reach for 5 pounds instead. That only keeps you right where you are.”

For more information, call 1-877-697-6249 or visit www.lawandathefitnessdiva.com.