An Interview with Long-time resident of Poway and Pilates expert Karen Rickett
Karen Rickett, M.S., R.D., is the owner and fitness director of Propel Pilates and Fitness, located in Rancho Bernardo. Karen has been working in the health and fitness industry for over 25 years and has also been a practicing Registered Dietitian for 18 years. Karen received her comprehensive Pilates certification through The PhysicalMind Institute in New York and also holds a personal training certification through the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I am originally from the Cincinnati area and attended the University of Cincinnati where I earned my undergraduate degree in nutrition and dietetics. I got my start in sports as a gymnast and diver and developed an interest early on in aerobics and fitness. By the time I was a sophomore in college, I owned my own gym and offered aerobics and personal training to my clients.
After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, I continued my education at the University of Tennessee and earned a graduate degree in science and nutrition. During this time, I continued working as a personal trainer, but began to add a nutritional component to my work as well. I also worked part-time as a registered dietitian at a local hospital.
What brought you to Poway? What attracted to you to the community?
My husband works in the biotech industry, and there were good job opportunities in the San Diego area. We moved to Poway in 2004.
Poway is a great place to live. In addition to being centrally located to the beaches, the mountains, and downtown San Diego, it’s got a real rural feel to it. You’re living in a city, but with the advantages of country life. It’s the best of two worlds.
Poway is a very neighborly community — the people are friendly, and you really get the chance to know your neighbors. It has great schools, and you have access to lots of different types of activities. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are miles of horseback riding, biking, and hiking trails. .
If you were giving a tour of Poway, what places would be on it and why?
Old Town Poway is a great family-friendly park with shops and a train that the kids love to ride — an ideal picnic spot. On Saturdays, they have an excellent Farmers Market. The Maderis Golf Club is a good public course with beautiful views and good food. Lake Poway is great if you’re a birdwatcher.
Poway has a great performing arts center where you can enjoy both national and international plays, musicals, and concerts.
Read Part 2: What got this resident of Poway Pilates bound