This August, Soldiers To Sidelines is proud to honor Karen Smith as the Soldier Coach of the Month. Karen’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others become the strongest versions of themselves. Although she has never served in uniform, her deep connection to the military community as a former Navy spouse has profoundly influenced her coaching career, making her a pillar of strength for those she trains.
A Journey of Passion and Service
Karen began her coaching career in 1998, transitioning from a corporate role to pursue her passion for fitness and strength training. As a Navy spouse, Karen found herself in the unique position of being closely connected to the military community. This connection led her to train Special Forces personnel, their families, first responders, and everyday individuals. Her commitment to continuous learning and her pursuit of numerous certifications reflects her dedication to offering the best possible coaching to those she serves.
Her journey into coaching began even earlier, during her high school years when she coached youth gymnastics. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Over the years, Karen has adapted her coaching to fit the needs of her clients, including opening the first Kettlebell Gym in Virginia Beach in 2009 and later transitioning her business online when her family relocated to Texas in 2013.
Karen’s experience as a military spouse has deeply influenced her coaching style. Training Special Forces members and their families provided her with a unique perspective on the physical and mental demands faced by those in the military. This experience has driven her to pursue a wide range of certifications, enabling her to coach with versatility and depth, addressing the diverse needs of her clients.
Karen’s connection to the military community extends beyond her role as a spouse. Her work with Soldiers To Sidelines has allowed her to feel a renewed sense of purpose and belonging after years of being part of the military community. “There was a sense of loss after 21 years in the military community and then going through a divorce,” she shares. “Meeting Harrison when he came to the Adaptive Training Foundation and hearing about STS made me feel excited and at home.”
A Heartfelt Connection
One of the most poignant moments in Karen’s coaching career occurred in 2011 when she had the honor of coaching a TEAM before they deployed. After training them for a week, one of the TEAM members introduced Karen to his wife, who later became one of her clients and a friend. Her new friend was discussing with her husband how much she loved training with Karen and he encouraged her to study for the same certification Karen held. His rationale was that she loved the work, and she should have a backup plan in case something bad were to happen. Tragically, just a few months later, her friend’s husband was lost in a helicopter crash. Karen vividly recalls the moment she received the heartbreaking news and the impact it had on her and the military community. This experience, among many others, has left a lasting imprint on Karen’s heart, reinforcing her commitment to supporting military families and those who serve.
Innovating Through Challenge
Karen’s coaching journey has not been without its challenges. In 2023, she encountered the Adaptive Training Foundation and was inspired by the incredible athletes she met. Working with individuals who have different adaptations, such as visual impairments, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations, has pushed Karen to innovate and find creative solutions to help these athletes regain their strength and independence. One of her most rewarding experiences was helping a man who hadn’t walked in 11 years take his first unassisted steps. “We pushed hard, we fell a lot, but we kept at it until he took steps without assistance,” Karen recalls. This story epitomizes the resilience and determination that Karen brings to her coaching.
Looking Forward
Karen’s aspirations in coaching are clear: she is passionate about helping people—whether by guiding them to become coaches themselves or by aiding in their recovery post-injury. Her current work spans various organizations, including StrongFirst, the Adaptive Training Foundation, Merging Vets & Players, Resiliency Brain Health, and Semper Stronger. Karen’s coaching business today has many facets, and she feels blessed to have the opportunity to travel the world, teaching certifications and coaching adaptive athletes and veterans.
Karen Smith’s story is a testament to the profound impact that a dedicated coach can have on individuals and communities. Her journey, shaped by her experiences as a Navy spouse and her deep connection to the military community, has made her a source of strength and inspiration for many. Soldiers To Sidelines is honored to recognize Karen Smith as the Soldier Coach of the Month for August 2024, celebrating her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their full potential.
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