We are more than just your average gym. We are a training studio that works with you to reach your personalized fitness goals whether it be in the studio or online. We are here to educate you and keep you on track to being as fit and healthy as possible. Allow yourself to receive the most effective form of training with one-on-one, semi-private, small group personal training or our online fitness coaching.
The heart of my purpose with online fitness and wellness coaching is to provide structure and accountability as you move towards achieving your goals. I successfully design programs for people of all body types and abilities, making them fun, efficient, challenging and capable of producing the results they expect and deserve!
The heart of my purpose with online fitness and wellness coaching is to provide structure and accountability as you move towards achieving your goals. I successfully design programs for people of all body types and abilities, making them fun, efficient, challenging and capable of producing the results they expect and deserve!
Services
We are more than just your average gym. We are an in-person & online training studio that works with you to reach your personalized fitness goals. We are here to educate you and keep you on track to being as fit and healthy as possible. Allow yourself to receive the most effective form of training with one-on-one, semi-private, small group or online training.
Kari is a San Diego native, married to her high school sweetheart and mom to their Cornish Rex Eve and Dachshunds Bob & Alice (You can many times find one of the furry kids hanging out at the studio). She is the owner of Empower Fitness & Wellness and has a passion for overall health, fitness and empowering others to achieve their personal best.
This is one of the most frequently asked questions by my clients; particularly posed by those who begin to focus on their diet for a healthy body. If you have been searching for information on weight loss from people who are active in the fitness industry, you too have probably heard about macros or macronutrients.
Empower Fitness' personal training services are designed to help individuals achieve their utmost potential. Our programs utilize a variety of traditional strength and functional methods to develop both strength and coordination, increase fat loss, decrease your risk for injury and enhance your performance.
If you are in San Diego and like the idea of online training, we encourage you to participate in our Hybrid Program which is a combination of custom online coaching along with in-person 1-on-1 training sessions.
Having the advice and guidance online is great, however for some, having in-person assistance alongside this, and face to face interaction will benefit those who feel they need a little more attention and the opportunity to "touch base" with me.
Having the advice and guidance online is great, however for some, having in-person assistance alongside this, and face to face interaction will benefit those who feel they need a little more attention and the opportunity to "touch base" with me.
Reviews (19)
Karen F.
Jul 18, 2021
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I've been working with Kari for almost a year now and I've seen more progress than I ever expected. Not because of Kari but, because I didn't think I could stick with any program this long! But she remains understanding and flexible when life happens and we work through it and keep going! So far I've lost almost 30 lbs, 7" from my waist and I feel like a new person. And now that I've returned to work it feels great to get compliments! I appreciate the accountability Kari offers and it certain helps to keep me on track! Thank you!!!
Karina C.
Jan 27, 2021
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I've been working with Kari for over a year and my journey with her has been amazing. While I may not be at my goal yet, and still have a lot of learning and work to do, I know with Kari's support I will get there in my own time. That's what is so great about her as a personal trainer. She does not have a one size fits all high sales model, she actually listens to me and coaches me as a unique individual with my unique struggles. As you all know, I'm in San Diego but Empower Fitness has a full program online that you can tap into from anywhere. So, here's my endorsement
Christina B.
Dec 14, 2020
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Kari is a rare find. She is a tough yet supportive coach. The journey of health and fitness is never a quick fix. She takes the time to get to know you personally and caters her program to the individual so success is a reality. Give her the opportunity to make an impact on your life, you won't regret it.
Lara R.
Oct 15, 2020
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Kari at Empower Fitness is the real deal. Her gym is spotless and cleaned repeatedly throughout the day. She had this approach long before Covid-19. I will not work out anywhere else because of it. I purchased a 12 session package with Kari because I wanted someone who understood my needs with age, diabetes, weight loss, and very limited strength training experience. Each and every workout is different and challenging. I think she conjures new ways to push her clients in the gym and it's awesome. lol. Kari has extensive knowledge about fitness and nutrition and she reallllly cares about
Toby C.
Aug 02, 2020
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I worked out here for about 2 years, great place to get in shape! Kari is friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming. As a guy I thought these type places would be a waste of time, but was I ever wrong! You will get a really great workout. I always felt welcome and would not hesitate to recommend to friends. get started on your future NOW!
Scott B.
Aug 01, 2020
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I had been with Empower for a long time (Almost 5 years) and was kicked to the curb. If you go there be warned the owner has issues with males. Mind your manners or like the old saying goes "We refuse to serve anyone", the owner really means it. The owner talked behind her clients back to other clients and I have seen her rut out clients because for some reason, she did not like them. When she drop my training classes, I asked her to put me in another class, I never heard back from her. I invested a lot of time and money into Empower fitness and felt part of a family until I was dropped
Lacy C.
Apr 15, 2020
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I'm so happy I decided to start working with Kari! I've always worked out but haven't been great at working towards goals or being consistent, but with Kari that has changed! The accountability with her is key and is a game changer in my fitness. I'm still amazed that I get so much assistance from her outside of just training with her in person. Between working out with her and the at home workouts she provides in her app I've made a lot of progress. Best decision I've made in a long time and so worth it!t
Mary S.
Sep 09, 2019
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I contacted Empower and the response was they were out of town until Sept. 3 and would reply at that time. They did not reply so I messaged again to be told to email them instead of responding via Yelp. When I did, I was told there was no availability. So, needless to say I am disappointed and will not be getting service from Empower.
Tina D.
Apr 13, 2018
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I really enjoy my workouts with new Trainer Julia and appreciate her style of training. The combination of Kari's targeted muscle groups, weight training and Julia's fluid full body exercises are the best combination for killer results! I am so excited, I feel and see and know that for the first time in my adult life I am going to reach my fitness goals and it's because I have TWO INCREDIBLE AND EXPERIENCED trainers on my team who not only take the time to develop personalized workout routines, but go the extra distance in making sure you master the form and use appropriate weight
Staci E.
Jan 22, 2018
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I have been working out with Kari and Emily for a couple of years and it's been the best gift for myself. Not only do I look forward to seeing either of them, I have lost weight, gained strength and visibly toned up with exercise programs they develop specifically for me. Due to a knee injury and feet that painfully do not cooperate, classes don't work for me. Kari and Emily are able to design no-impact routines that truly work and keep me motivated. At age 51, I'm in the best shape of my life thanks to them.
Karin F.
Mar 22, 2017
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I have only been working with Kari for 2 months but she has made me realize that I can push myself physically far beyond what I ever thought and feel great about it. I am 51 and significantly overweight, but have already gained mobility, flexibility, strength and a drive to keep moving. Kari keeps things interesting and fun. Found that I love "sneaky cardio". Now, I leave for the Summer, but truly look forward to continuing the sensible, attainable ways to better fitness I have learned from Kari and coming back to work with her this Fall. Kari, you rock! Thank you for making me
Zoe Z.
Feb 23, 2017
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Allison V.
Mar 14, 2014
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If you are looking for someone to help you reach your fitness goals and motivate you along the way, this is the place. Kari and Empower Fitness are willing to work with you to help you attain your goals. Kari is super personable, knowledgable and so much fun to work out with. She has helped me from living a sedentary lifestyle to now running half marathons! Thank you so much Kari for all you do! I now consider myself a "lifetime client"
PS: Take an Insanity class to really get your butt in gear :)
PS: Take an Insanity class to really get your butt in gear :)
Nathan Q.
Oct 23, 2013
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I have been training at Empower for a couple of years now. The studio is always clean and organized. Whether doing private or class sessions, your body will get a complete workout. It is a very friendly atmosphere and you never feel intimidated or in competition with other people. Kari and Emily are great instructors!
Mike V.
Sep 15, 2012
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We've been going here on a regular basis for some time now and I cannot rate Empower high enough.
You can really tell when someone cares about their business and clients - Kari clearly works hard to make each class count and is interested in seeing everyone get the best in their workout.
I'm someone that DOES NOT like going to the "gym" but I do enjoy going for classes in a smaller environment like this. Five stars!
You can really tell when someone cares about their business and clients - Kari clearly works hard to make each class count and is interested in seeing everyone get the best in their workout.
I'm someone that DOES NOT like going to the "gym" but I do enjoy going for classes in a smaller environment like this. Five stars!
Christina C.
Sep 14, 2012
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I've waited way to long to write a review for Empower and the owner/trainer Kari. I'm constantly looking to stay fit and active and need various activities to keep me interested. On top of keeping me interested, I need to feel comfortable and feel like I'm having fun. Well, Kari makes me feel all of those while I sweat.
I go to the Spin classes, Circuit, and the Fusion. All are exactly what I need to get a great workout. I don't know how it's possible to simultaneously dread and look forward to a class, but that pretty much describes Spin. Seriously, this class
I go to the Spin classes, Circuit, and the Fusion. All are exactly what I need to get a great workout. I don't know how it's possible to simultaneously dread and look forward to a class, but that pretty much describes Spin. Seriously, this class
Lindsay V.
Nov 24, 2010
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This is an updated review from the one I wrote on 7/25/2010.
Ok, so, I don't write reviews for ANYTHING very often; I'm not a "yelper," but I do feel compelled to honestly share my experiences with Kari of Empowered Fitness because I so much enjoy every workout!
It has been six months now since I have been working out with Kari, and I am in such great shape that it is remarkable! I never thought I would be capable of the level of physical fitness I have now--not to mention the energy and vitality I have as a result of working with Kari.
The cool thing about having Kari
Ok, so, I don't write reviews for ANYTHING very often; I'm not a "yelper," but I do feel compelled to honestly share my experiences with Kari of Empowered Fitness because I so much enjoy every workout!
It has been six months now since I have been working out with Kari, and I am in such great shape that it is remarkable! I never thought I would be capable of the level of physical fitness I have now--not to mention the energy and vitality I have as a result of working with Kari.
The cool thing about having Kari
Tina H.
May 30, 2010
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Kari is not your typical "fitness" trainer! I have never liked doing reps or lifting weights in the gym--boring!
But Kari combines core training with the stability ball and other more user friendly equipment into her fitness training. This makes its more challenging in a good way, less boring, and results come much quicker because you find yourself actually doing the exercises at home while watching TV or listening to music.
I am recommending Kari to all my female friends as she is a perfect trainer for "regular" women looking to get in shape and build strength!
But Kari combines core training with the stability ball and other more user friendly equipment into her fitness training. This makes its more challenging in a good way, less boring, and results come much quicker because you find yourself actually doing the exercises at home while watching TV or listening to music.
I am recommending Kari to all my female friends as she is a perfect trainer for "regular" women looking to get in shape and build strength!
Jenn K.
May 09, 2010
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Disclosure #1: Kari is a friend of mine
Disclosure #2: She's my personal trainer, and a damn good one!
Hands down, you will not get a better personal trainer. Kari is a realist. She doesn't expect you to live on brown rice and vegetables and then sustain yourself through 3-hour workouts. She's a very female friendly trainer.
Since I've temporarily relocated to the east coast, Kari has continued training me from afar for my wedding, providing me with workouts to target my problem areas, keeping it fresh and challenging so that I don't get bored (I have quite the problem
Disclosure #2: She's my personal trainer, and a damn good one!
Hands down, you will not get a better personal trainer. Kari is a realist. She doesn't expect you to live on brown rice and vegetables and then sustain yourself through 3-hour workouts. She's a very female friendly trainer.
Since I've temporarily relocated to the east coast, Kari has continued training me from afar for my wedding, providing me with workouts to target my problem areas, keeping it fresh and challenging so that I don't get bored (I have quite the problem
