Owner & Instructor
Leah Kazakoff
Get Moving with Zumba
& Martial Arts!
There are three significant events that helped shape the direction of my
life. The first one was starting Taekwondo in 1994. TKD challenged
me – I became physically and mentally stronger. Most importantly, I
met my husband Derek, who is one of the best martial artists I know.
Together we have run our martial arts studio, Precision Martial Arts
Academy, for over 20 years and grown our family to include our
daughter and my stepdaughter. Although I hung up my belt, I continue
to teach other fitness and wellness classes through PMAA.
The second event that shaped my life was going to a convention in San Diego and hearing
Dr. David Simon (The Chopra Center) speak. He spoke about integrating Eastern and
Western medicine and Ayurveda. This fueled my love of Ayurveda and I began my
journey to learn about “Perfect Health” and how to incorporate the principles of Ayurveda
into my life, and to teach them to others.
The third event that shaped my life occurred at a convention in Toronto where I became
a licensed Zumba® instructor. This prompted me to quit my ‘day job’ and work for our
company full-time. I love teaching Zumba® and have had the privilege of seeing many lives
positively affected and changed because of it.
The best and worst decision I ever made was to open a fitness studio. It was the best
decision because I learned so much about myself and what type of businesswoman I am.
I learned that even in my darkest moments I am strong enough to get through anything.
It was the worst decision I made because I allowed myself to be railroaded into leasing a
space that was much larger than I needed which ultimately caused financial and mental
stress. In the end I made a decision to sell the studio because it was the right choice for my
family. However, I will never regret the time spent owning it.
If I were to give advice to anyone about following their dreams and building a career that
they love, it would be to get clear on what you actually want to do. It’s one thing to have
a passion, but it’s another to make it into a viable business. It’s not just doing what you’re
passionate about – it’s about dealing with the practical aspects of running a business, such
as charging for services, where you’re going to operate, etc. Once you understand that
there is more to having your own business than sharing your passion, then you will be on
your way to having a career that you love.
Owner & Instructor
LEAH KAZAKOFF , B.P.E.
Precision Martial Arts Academy
[email protected]
Phone 780-910-4657
www.pmaa.ca
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