We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kara Keasling a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kara, appreciate you joining us today. How did you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?
My first job in the fitness field was to assist people using the new Cybex Equipment line at the Lattof YMCA. It was my first taste of assisting others during workouts when I was around 15 years old. I liked getting to know the mechanics of the equipment and being in the positive gym atmosphere. I got the job because my family knew the staff well and the YMCA branch was part of my youth as I even learned how to swim in their pools. My first recollection of gym equipment was visiting my Dad working out in the Nautilus room, which was one of the first lines of machines, which in my memory were so large! Although I didn’t have my personal training certification and hadn’t been to college, it left a lasting positive impression that would later lead to my current career choice.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I completed my Bachelor of Science degree internship in Health Promotion at Burger King Corporation headquarters where I also completed my Personal Training and Group Exercise Certification along with specialties such as Kickboxing and Spinning. I have worked at various health clubs, country clubs, hotels & senior centers throughout the greater Miami area. I currently work at various condominiums and private residences, as well as online via zoom/facetime. I also do events with various health insurance companies doing fitness demos and lectures at various locations around South Florida. I even used to be a fitness instructor evaluator. I am proud of my diversification in working with all ages from kids to seniors and my knowledge of many modalities such as HIIT Training, Yoga, Pilates, Bootcamp, Indoor Cycling, Senior Fitness and Aquatic Fitness workouts in the pool. Since I’ve had various injuries of my own, I’m great with exercise modifications to fit what an individual can do. I work within directives physical therapists regularly. Having a team that works together for an individuals benefit is essential.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
The best source of new clients is good old fashioned word of mouth. Same thing with finding a good doctor, dentist, or any other professional you trust with your health. The story of a friend who is finding success with a professional is priceless. Trust isn’t always easy to find in this day and age.
Have you ever had to pivot?
I did have to pivot when the lockdowns happened, as my fitness classes at 3 senior centers closed. Thanks to live video technology making teaching sessions from home possible! I still have online clients, which is fantastic for when either party is out of town. A consistent, regular routine is essential in the fitness lifestyle. It is amazing what little space you need to get a really good workout as well as basic workout equipment such as bands that don’t take up much storage space. I’ve also gotten out of teaching classes as much, and currently work mostly with personal training individuals or small groups.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
City Zen photo by Gary Hufham Super Chic Hotel Convention workout by Smithco Photo Images Boardroom Balance Break workout by Jessica Riorda Water Aerobics Workout & Zoom workout by Kara