Karen Armstrong

Qualifications: Certified in Pilates by D.K. Body Balancing Method (a Balanced Body Instructor Partner). Completed 350 hours of practice under the supervision of Jerome Weinberg and Romana Kryzanowski, currently of Romana Pilates. Has B.S. in Physiological Sciences from the University of Arizona. Has over 15 years of experience teaching Pilates. Formerly a Ballet Academy Pilates Instructor.

Personal History: My interest in health and well-being began at a young age. I am one of eleven children. As the second-youngest child, I was influenced by my older siblings as well as my parents. At the age of 8, my introduction to nutrition began with my mother’s cooking classes. My brothers and sisters introduced me to “The Vegan Times” and co-op grocery stores. I grew up watching and joining my mother try every diet and exercise program available. I was influenced by her belly dancing, Callanetics, and Jane Fonda workouts. I was always involved in sports and danced every chance I could get. Although I was very active as a child and interested in health, I did not have a very healthy childhood. I suffered from chronic pneumonia, asthma, and allergies. As a young adult. I decided to do something about my health. I studied Massage Therapy, Nutritional and Exercise Sciences, as well as Pilates and strength conditioning.

Workout Philosophy: My workout philosophy is to find new ways to challenge the mind and body. I love cross-training different methods and disciplines to optimize results in cardiovascular strength and endurance, flexibility, muscular strength, coordination, and concentration. I use the Pilates method and apply its theory to all exercises. I hope to give my students a better awareness of their bodies, inspire them to take responsibility for their own health, and help them enjoy it.

Sucess Story: Connie Nicholas from Houston, Texas: "I was struggling with lower back pain, but I didn't realize how much I was struggling until I started doing the exercises in your DVD. With each use, I began to get stronger and realized that I was feeling slightly depressed by the limitations my back pain had placed upon me. Even though my back pain was only moderate, I realized that it prevented me from fully engaging in life's activities. I played less often with my children and my sex life with my husband had diminished. As a result, I was despondent and mildly depressed and didn't even know it! After doing the program only six times, I was feeling stronger and more positive. My family noticed the difference immediately, and now totally support 'mommy’s exercise program.' The kids try to do it with me (which is hilarious), and my husband...well, let's just say we exercise together once the kids are asleep and are having a blast! Thank you for saving my life and my family!"