Karen Shaw

Intense childhood training in gymnastics, weight training at age 17, thyroid dysfunction in my 30s, a broken shoulder, depression, and other health issues combined to form the driving force behind my passion today: To teach people that everyone can have a Balanced and Empowered Life.

In 1988 I started working at Mt.Kisco Athletic Club as a Personal Trainer and Aerobics Instructor. I conducted fitness assessments, developed personal training programs, helped members improve their workouts, taught body-sculpting, spinning and yoga classes. I also organized and taught beginner rollerblading classes for members.
Soon after that I was teaching and training at multiple fitness clubs and corporations in Westchester County. During that time, I recognized a need for personalized, in-home programs tailored specifically for the individual, and taking into consideration age, gender, fitness goals, previous injuries, work schedules, and nutritional requirements and preferences. In response to that need, I created BodySculpt by Karen.

In 1998 after suffering a broken shoulder, thyroid imbalance and depression, and finding no relief in traditional medicine, I turned toward alternative healing. After experiencing profound healing, I myself became certified as a Reiki Healing Practitioner. In 1999, I became an Ordained Interfaith Minister in order to continue my spiritual growth and physical healing.
In 2000 I brought BodySculpt by Karen to Redondo Beach, California. I also worked as a Personal Trainer, Spinning and Yoga Instructor at Golds Gym. At several fitness centers I taught Power Yoga classes and organized and conducted partner yoga and Reiki workshops.
During my eight years in California I trained my BodySculpt by Karen clients on the beach, in groups, privately, and in their homes. Because of my experience and individual training approach, I also worked with clients with physical disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy and Autism. I partnered with nutritionists, holistic practitioners and healers so that I could bring even more balance and empowerment to my clients’ lives.
In 2003, I traveled to Costa Rica and taught at Pura Vida Yoga Center, which brought me to a higher personal level in my Yoga practice; I’m still sharing the benefits of this experience with my clients.

In 2008, I returned to New York, where I continue to train clients. I also wrote, produced and taped a Public Access show called “Fitness From the Inside Out” which aired in upper Westchester County. “Fitness From the Inside Out” is a show dedicated to introducing tips on exercise, nutrition, alternative methods and amazing success stories, which perfectly reflects my own personal goal. It is my mission to show and teach viewers, through my own personal experience, that they can take charge of their own health, life and well-being.

Certifications:

- Aerobics & Fitness Association of America (AFAA)
- Johnny G. Spinning Instructor
- YogaFit Worldwide
- Power Yoga, Molly Fox, NYC
- Usui System of Natural Healing (Mastership)
- Ordained Interfaith Minister