I taught fitness classes for more than 20 years—mainly group classes and personal training. My approach was always energetic and athletic, with a strong focus on cardio and strength training. This suited my background as a competitive skier and professional athlete in my twenties. I thrived on intense workouts and could never have imagined that Pilates would one day become part of my training routine—let alone my passion.
At first, I occasionally attended Pilates classes, but I didn't stick with it consistently. I was firmly rooted in my fast-paced, power-intensive training style and saw Pilates as something gentler—something for for , not for . But Lisa from McCall Pilates saw something in me and encouraged me to consider training. I hesitated. This discipline felt so far removed from everything I knew. Then COVID hit—and I thought to myself: Why not? If nothing else, at least I'll learn something new.
During my rehabilitation after several operations and injuries, Pilates became an important anchor for . It taught me to slow down, listen to my body, and move consciously. What began as pure curiosity developed into a powerful new skill. I completed the training and have now been teaching as a fully certified Balanced Body Instructor for three years.
Not only did it help me personally, it also helped my clients enormously, including bodybuilders and performance-oriented athletes. By focusing on alignment, core strength, and precise movements, Pilates creates a foundation for strength and resilience. It supports recovery, regaining mobility, and returning to beloved activities—stronger and more connected than ever before.
I taught fitness classes for more than 20 years—mainly group classes and personal training. My approach was always energetic and athletic, with a strong focus on cardio and strength training. This suited my background as a competitive skier and professional athlete in my twenties. I thrived on intense workouts and could never have imagined that Pilates would one day become part of my training routine—let alone my passion.
At first, I occasionally attended Pilates classes, but I didn't stick with it consistently. I was firmly rooted in my fast-paced, power-intensive training style and saw Pilates as something gentler—something for for , not for . But Lisa from McCall Pilates saw something in me and encouraged me to consider training. I hesitated. This discipline felt so far removed from everything I knew. Then COVID hit—and I thought to myself: Why not? If nothing else, at least I'll learn something new.
During my rehabilitation after several operations and injuries, Pilates became an important anchor for . It taught me to slow down, listen to my body, and move consciously. What began as pure curiosity developed into a powerful new skill. I completed the training and have now been teaching as a fully certified Balanced Body Instructor for three years.
Not only did it help me personally, it also helped my clients enormously, including bodybuilders and performance-oriented athletes. By focusing on alignment, core strength, and precise movements, Pilates creates a foundation for strength and resilience. It supports recovery, regaining mobility, and returning to beloved activities—stronger and more connected than ever before.
Gwen Asmussen is a fully certified Balanced Body instructor with over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry.
As a former professional skier and X-Games competitor, she combines her high-intensity athletic background with the restorative power of Pilates to help clients heal, rebuild, and optimize their performance—on and off the mat. Gwen teaches at McCall Pilates Studio in McCall, Idaho, and enjoys the diverse outdoor activities the region has to offer.
Gwen Asmussen is a fully certified Balanced Body instructor with over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry.
As a former professional skier and X-Games competitor, she combines her high-intensity athletic background with the restorative power of Pilates to help clients heal, rebuild, and optimize their performance—on and off the mat. Gwen teaches at McCall Pilates Studio in McCall, Idaho, and enjoys the diverse outdoor activities the region has to offer.
