1. Can you introduce yourself ?
Hi, I am Karen Persyn (@persynkaren). I am a former professional Belgium skier (my specializations are slalom and giant slalom). I participated in the Olympic games of Vancouver in 2010 where I ended up 27th is the slalom race. I won around 45 Belgian titles in Alpine Skiing between 1993 and 2015. In 2015 I quit skiing and started to work as a trainer for the national team U14-U16 alpine skiing from Belgium. When I am in Belgium I am working in a fitness center where I give group lessons like Bodypump, Indoor Cycling, Core-training and Small Group training. I also give some 1 to 1 coaching sessions.
2. Why did you choose PCA for your education ?
I was already looking for a good education concept since I stopped my career. I spoke with some ex athletes who started their own Personal Training brand. Some of them followed the courses with PCA. When I realized that with PCA I could start high level education and the agenda matching with my planning, I signed up for the period that was just perfect for me.
3. What did the NASM accreditation bring you ?
I will bring me to a higher level of personal coaching. That my clients will obtain better results and that I can help more people to enjoy doing sports or realize their dreams.
4. What is your specialization ?
I don’t really have a specific specialization yet. I like to train young athletes, but also older people to let them feel more confident in their life. I like to motivate people in Small Group training sessions.
5. What is the coolest exercise you like to do with your clients and why ?
I am a great fan of the exercises with a suspension trainer, because you can take it with you all over the world and train whenever you want.
6. What is the most fulfilling part in coaching others ?
I am always so happy to see the progress that clients make and to see that people who never really liked to do sports, start to enjoy training.
7. What is your favorite quote ?
"When you believe in it, EVERYTHING is possible!"
