Instructor in Focus: Karen Goh

Instructor Name: Karen Goh
Studio(s) you work at: Movement Collective
Location: Pymble, NSW
Instructor training: Pilates ITC
PAA Level: Level 1 & current Committee Member

What originally motivated you to try Pilates and then go on to train as an instructor?

I tried a class at my gym and loved it but felt like I wasn’t doing it very well so enrolled in a matwork instructor course. My observation hours were done in a studio and I ended up trying studio sessions and then went on to do a diploma. Seeing the benefit and enjoyment that Pilates gives people and my hunger to learn more has led to a teaching career even though that wasn’t my original intention!

What did you eat for breakfast?

Fruit and chai latte.

In one word, describe your first Pilates experience?

Fun

What impact has the recent COVID-19 virus had on your world?

Initially it felt like doomsday but I quickly got to like the more relaxed pace of life (no chauffeuring of kids to activities, the convenience of Zoom meetings, long walks…). It has been a very different world with virtual classes, appointments, learning and connecting with people all over the world. My employer has managed the situation well and Jobkeeper has been a big help.

How have you handled your Pilates teaching with COVID-19, any advice to other teachers?

Zoom teaching has its challenges (figuring out if a client is being slow, doesn’t understand or has a bad internet connection) but the fact that everyone has been thrown into this together has set the bar quite low (dogs and kids joining the class) and made it easier. Advice -wear contrasting clothes, get the right camera angle and lighting, be careful using right/left cues when clients have different viewpoints from each other and you.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The people I work with – hearing/seeing them get relief or a sense of achievement or some new understanding, (And of course, getting to play on all the equipment.)

Your ‘go to’ website for all things Pilates (other than PAA)?

It keeps changing as I discover new websites.

The best advice you’ve ever had?

I’m not too good at listening to advice so I don’t know.

An indulgence you can’t live without?

At the moment, my puffer jacket.

How long have you been a member of PAA and how did you hear about PAA?

3 years. It was highly recommended when I did my training.

Do you have a motto?

Have a go.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Having confidence in my skills and knowledge.

How do you use PAA?

I think the PAA is doing a great job promoting and looking after the industry and its members (and it runs terrific conferences).

Who is your Pilates idol or would love to meet, and why?

Cara Reeser – I enjoyed, and learnt a lot from, her workshops at the last PAA conference. She has an enquiring mind, lots of energy and enthusiasm (and she’s funny and entertaining).

What do you appreciate most about your body?

That it is so amazingly complex and functional and it feels so good to stretch and move.

The book you’re currently reading?

Caged Lion by John Howard Steel (about Joseph Pilates).