Karen Westfall

Qualifications: Has a B.A. in Professional Dance and Physical Education from Brigham Young University. IDEA conference presenter.

Personal History: After graduating from B.Y.U., my goal was to teach dance and to perform and compete as a ballroom dancer. But, I was not permitted to teach dance under the amateur status rules, because I'd be considered a professional. I was allowed, however, to teach 'aerobics.' So, I registered the name Jazzerobics and began teaching in 1981. I've been married for 20 years to my dance partner and wonderful father of my five children.

Workout Philosophy: Variety! Even in aquatic exercise, there are so many new and exciting programs.

Sucess Story: Jean Allen, who appears in one of my videos, is my favorite story. Ten years ago, at the age of 68, she was suddenly bed-ridden with arthritis. Encouraged by some friends, she reluctantly attended her first aquatic exercise class. She's been a regular ever since and she recently took first place in a 10K walk/run at the Huntsman Senior Games. She attends aqua fitness classes three times a week without fail and she says she has never felt better.