How a Hong Kong convert to Pilates went from strength to strength
Karen Lim cured her pains through Pilates, took a teaching course to learn more, and with a friend went from running pop-up classes to a permanent studio. She tells us about her routines and where to refuel afterwards
While working as a finance professional five years ago Karen Lim suffered all the hallmarks of someone who spends hours at their desk: stiffness, pains in her lower back and tightness in her shoulders.
Just as she had resigned herself to the pain, she discovered Pilates. Engaging her core and stimulating long-neglected muscles, her aches and pains gradually disappeared.
With newfound freedom in her body and eager to learn more, she began training to become a teacher. “I decided to take the course simply for my own benefit at first – to deepen my knowledge and improve my practice. But during my training I discovered that I really enjoyed teaching,” says Lim, 33.
Together with friend and fellow teacher, Mylene Mackay, she experimented with teaching pop-up classes in various studios. They were so popular the pair moved into a permanent location in Central in 2014 and named the business Barre 2 Barre.
“I am happy when I see a positive change [in my students],” says Lim. “Not just in their bodies, but also in their outlook, as they get stronger and more flexible with each class.”
