Donamatrix Day returns to Petersburg with fitness festival, charity events
Free Press staff report | 4/3/2025, 6 p.m.

Celebrity trainer and Petersburg native Don “DB Donamatrix” Brooks brings his signature fitness event back home with the annual Donamatrix Day Fit Fest on Saturday, April 5, at Petersburg High School.
The free, family-friendly festival runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features live workouts, youth sports tournaments, health screenings and Brooks’ signature Donamatrix Workout. Known for his slogan, “Mind Right. Body Ready,” Brooks promotes physical and mental wellness through his training methods.
Established in 2018 when the City of Petersburg proclaimed April 3 as Donamatrix Day, the event has grown into a weekend-long celebration of health and fitness.
This year, Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Molina Healthcare, and the Petersburg Chapter of The Links will offer health education and screenings. Cool Beanz Cafe will provide food and drinks, while 106.5 The Beat’s Kool DJ Foot will bring the energy with music.
The weekend begins Thursday, April 3, with “The Senior Matrix Experience”, a specialized workout session for adults 60 and older 10 a.m. at Vernon Johns Middle School. Laterthat day, Brooks will host the “DB for 3 Charity Basketball Shootout” at 5 p.m. at Petersburg High School. The shootout replaces the event’s annual gala, with all proceeds benefiting the City of Petersburg Recreation, Special Events and Volunteerism Department.
All events are free, though registration is required for some activities. More information is available at donamatrixday.com.