Our Founder

I’m Kim. A former personal trainer turned motivational speaker and movement advocate.

I’m passionate about helping you tap into the power of mindset and movement so you can turn your trials into triumphs and live fully in the present moment.

For over two decades, I’ve dedicated my life to the fitness world, helping hundreds reclaim their lives through movement. But my journey didn’t start in a gym – it began with a holy sh*t moment just before my 40th birthday. At 207lbs, I found myself at a crossroads, realizing I needed to prioritize my well-being and take charge of my life.

After my profound personal transformation of shedding over 60 pounds and revitalizing my lifestyle, I felt a calling to share my journey and help others hit their goals, tapping into their potential. And so, Body Design was born.

I learned quickly that establishing a fitness business from my home was no easy feat. I faced numerous challenges, from building a client base to refining training methods, all while juggling the demands of entrepreneurship and family life. However, one of my biggest tests came when the pandemic hit. Overnight, I was forced to transition my in-person services to an online platform while staying committed to providing quality training and support to my clients.

Looking back now, I can see it was all preparing me for the biggest mountain I had yet to climb. At 57, I received a devastating diagnosis. I was told I had Parkinson’s disease. And I kept it a secret for years…until I couldn’t hide my reality any longer.

My Parkinson’s became very aggressive in the spring of 2023 after facing many stressors in life (the body keeps score). I had to give up my personal training clients, and by December, I was dependent on a walker and wheelchair.

I remember sitting there, feeling like my world was crumbling around me. The shock, the disbelief, the overwhelming sense of “Why me?” The irony of my situation—being a personal trainer with a neurological movement disorder—wasn’t lost on me.

My identity was so tied to my job title that losing my physical capabilities made me question, “Who am I now?”.

But as tough as it was, that moment also became the catalyst for one of the most profound transformations of my life. I knew this wasn’t where I wanted to stay.

I realized I am more than just “that lady with Parkinson’s.” I wanted to enjoy playing with my grandchildren, going on walks with my friends again, and spending quality time with my husband. I tapped back into the realization I made just before my 40th birthday many moons ago – I needed to make a change.

Shifting my perspective was my guiding light. 

I began to practice gratitude for what I had and find joy in the moment. I realized that healing isn’t just about moving the body – it’s about shifting the mind and nurturing the spirit, too.

And through this introspection, I found hope and strength in the power of gratitude, presence, perseverance, and community.

Now, I’m dedicated to sharing my experiences to inspire others. As a guest speaker at various events and Parkinson’s support groups, I aim to raise awareness and empower those facing similar challenges. My goal is to create a community where those battling chronic illness feel empowered to live fully in the present moment.

I’ve walked the path you’re on, and I want you to know—and believe—that there’s hope. By changing your perspective, you can change your life.

So, if you’re ready to rewrite your story, defy the odds, and unlock your full potential, let’s face this head-on together – because I know we’ve got this.

Let’s Connect!

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Webinars, Podcasts, Appearances

• Here’s my appearance on the Parkinson’s Canada webinar  “Under Pressure:  Stress and Parkinson’s”

• • I was so proud of your presentation in the webinar this afternoon. You gave a clear, concise description of stressors with concrete examples of ways to deal with so many of the issues. What a wonderful job! i had sent the link, prior to the actual webinar to several people “bragging” that you had been my trainer and urged them to watch. I thought the entire session was well worth it. I just had to let you know how informative I found the webinar. Congratulations!  Colleen
  • Fantastic host and presenters, very clear with the information. Personal story was inspirational.
  • Well done! I like the balance of a healthcare expert & a person living with PD who can speak from personal experience re: the topic at hand.
  • Excellent, thank you! Learned a great deal from the doctor and Kim’s personal story.
  • Both speakers were excellent presenters and their answers to questions from listeners were very helpful. Thank you!

 

• Spotify Podcast: Own your Choices, Own your Life

  • As Marsha said at the end of her podcast  ‘you nailed it’. I loved the podcast. You were put on this earth for a reason. You are an inspiration for everyone –  your knowledge,  strength,  hope and ‘can do’ attitude. Overcoming any fear requires a lot of work. The benefits are life changing.  Looking forward to your next speaking engagement.  Margaret

• You can watch my appearance on “Uxbridge Scugog Life” here.

• Here I am on the “This is We” Podcast:  Apple  | Spotify