★ 5

I have been taking Karen's pilate class for over 5 years. Karen's teaching approach, movements taught and practiced, and knowledge are effective. She continously challenges her students and is very clear about the purpose of each move. Since taking her classes, I rarely if ever have back pain or the other issues I had previously. Pilates taught by Karen is an excellent compliment to my other activities....running, cycling, tennis, yard work, life....to do all these injury free is a result of Karen's classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

My weekly Pilates class has made me so strong! I’m much more aware of my body and how I hold my posture throughout the day. I love this class and Karen is an incredible teacher! She is very knowledgeable and gives great cues!

Source: Google

★ 5

Wow! I feel like I just had a full-body massage. I went into my Pilates class with Karen Best feeling stiff, hip hurting slightly and walked out feeling fantastic! Thanks, Karen and Yoga Center of Columbia!

Source: Google

★ 5

Just back from a two-week retreat in Morocco. Samira's carefully curated adventure introduced us to a lovely range of places and people, from rural villagers to gloriously chaotic urban markets to the Sahara Dessert. I highly recommend joining one of her small travel groups if you are thinking of visiting this friendly and exotic land.

Source: Google

★ 5

A Life-Changing International Adventure with Samira!

I cannot say enough positive things about the experience of a wellness retreat with Samira. This was my first time traveling internationally, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the world outside of the US, than this unforgettable journey to Morocco. As someone who had never traveled internationally before, I was excited, nervous, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to even begin. But from the very first interaction with Samira, she put me at ease and made me feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Samira handled every detail—from pre-packing suggestions before the trip, to accommodations, to guided tours and cultural experiences. What stood out was how personal everything felt. This wasn’t just a vacation, it was a transformational experience. I didn’t just see a new country—I grew as a person. I felt empowered, inspired, and connected in a way I never imagined possible. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara, every detail was perfectly planned. We rode camels at sunset, shared tea with locals, wandered ancient medinas, built lasting relationships, and soaked in the rich culture, history, and beauty of Morocco. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between adventure, education, and relaxation.

Thanks to Samira, I’ve caught the travel bug and can’t wait to see more of the world. If you’re even thinking about booking your first international trip, do it with Samira. You won’t regret it. I can’t wait to book my next one!

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic class
Karen is informative and a terrific Instructor
Definitely encourage everyone to try it at least one time ...
You will want to return again

Source: Google

★ 5

Karen is fantastic! I've been taking her Pilates classes for the past six months, and she really makes a difference. She always takes the time to understand what each person needs and gives clear instructions, along with modifications or challenges that are just right for you.
Her focus on proper form and constant encouragement make every class feel like it’s made just for you.
After each session, I leave feeling stronger, more balanced, and totally refreshed. Over the last few months, I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my core strength, flexibility, and posture—and I couldn’t be happier with my progress.
If you're looking to try Pilates, mobility stretches, or meditation, I highly recommend giving Karen a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

Mobility Stretch is the kind of class you can take alone, or in addition with another class. I have found that it compliments my Pilates 1 class. Learning the proper way to stretch helps to improve my overall wellness. I can recommend this class, with Karen, for everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira's floor pilates classes are simply fantastic. Her positive, encouraging energy is simply contagious and afterwards, I always feel grounded, strong and 'zipped up' in my core. I love the fact that she offers modifications for people of varying abilities which makes everyone feel included. Another quality of Samira's teaching that is really exemplary is that she is constantly educating her students, which I really appreciate as a fellow fitness / wellness professional (yoga & myofascial release instructor). She has a unique way of bringing the anatomy to life by explaining which muscles engage during each movement, sharing the benefits of the practice, etc.. I hope to make her Pilates 2 class a regular part of my week because I find that spending time focused on strengthening my core improves my yoga practice and my teaching as well. It also makes me feel stronger and more stable in the other activities I enjoy; running, hiking and swimming. Be sure to check out Samira's wonderful offerings at the Yoga Center of Columbia!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have scoliosis and a myriad of related injuries. I was never good at keeping up with my PT exercises but was thrilled that this class incorporates them and keeps me accountable. Karen is very knowledgeable and helped me with my sciatica, IT band, and regaining my core strength post pregnancy. My husband and dad now work with her as well for their back problems and mobility issues!

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience involves entering a peaceful space where my world slows down. In class, Karen gracefully and enthusiastically shares her extensive and deep understanding of every movement, allowing each student to learn and connect with it at their own pace. Tonight’s class was one of the hardest—not because the moves changed, but because I am focused on perfecting them.

Source: Google

★ 5

Karen is a fabulous teacher, warm and welcoming. I started her classes during COVID to combat WFH in a crummy chair and have come back to her stretch class after lockdown because it really does help alleviate the effects of sitting at a desk all day.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have taken pilates classes with Karen for almost 20 years and I cannot begin to give her the praise she deserves. Karen's classes are not just about pilates - they are about health for life at all stages: strong core, good balance, pelvic floor health, stretching correctly and much much more. Karen always explains the benefits of each exercise as we work through them as well as reminding us how to do them correctly. She continues to learn the latest best practices for a healthy body - her knowledge is impressive and I say that with a 50 year background in medical science. I am 76 years old now and I thank Karen every day for the gift of a strong body.

Source: Google

★ 5

Karen is an amazing fitness instructor. Her Pilates, Mobility Stretch and meditation classes not only make my body and mind feel great but are also filled with health and wellness information. Her friendliness, kindness and fun spirit create a very supportive practice community. I highly recommend trying out one of her classes. The Yoga Center of Columbia offers a wide variety of fitness classes with excellent instructors.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been taking Pilates classes with Samira for over 15 years. I can't recommend her class more highly. If you want a great Pilates workout with a fantastic instructor this is your class.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Yoga Center and Karen are amazing. The Center is a warm, welcoming place with knowledgeable, caring instructors and it is very community minded, supporting local causes. Karen's classes are great and her extensive knowledge of physical therapy, stretching and anatomy means she can offer modifications that make it possible for anyone to take her classes. I highly recommend the Center!

Source: Google

★ 5

Karen is a fantastic Pilates instructor, she’s so knowledgeable, motivating, and inspiring. I’ve been taking classes from her for more than 6 years now and never felt more fit. Her enthusiasm truly energizes the class while her clear explanations help us understand not only how to do the movements properly but also what muscles are being worked and what the benefits of the exercises are. Karen’s just the best!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been taking Pilates classes online via Zoom with Samira, and they have been hands down the most effective use of my time in terms of physical benefits...my mobility and core strength have increased so much! A lifelong dancer and fitness guru, she is literally a "movement-expert;" her coaching, description, and pacing of moves is terrific. Also, she is so kind, supportive, and interesting! I highly recommend her as an instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Yoga Center of Columbia offers more than yoga! Karen’s Pilates and Mobility Stretch classes are excellent. I think I first took Karen’s Pilates class 15 years ago and her classes and instruction keep getting better and better. She’s a fitness instructor, physical therapist, story-teller and life coach all in one! Karen explains every movement clearly, what the benefits are, and how to make corrections to your form so you get the best benefit from the exercises or stretches. Both classes are a great complement to other types of fitness or exercise activities. I highly recommend The Yoga Center of Columbia! All classes and instructors are top-notch.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been taking Pilates and Mobility Stretch classes with Karen for almost 10 years. She is an excellent instructor with a positive attitude who cares about her students. The entire staff at the Columbia Yoga Center is just great… and they offer more than Yoga classes. All experience levels can find the class that is right for them (most classes are offered in-person or virtual to fit all schedules).

Source: Google

★ 5

We have used Samira on multiple occasions, and she is always professional and puts on a great belly dance show. I would highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira is an amazing Pilates and fitness instructor who cares deeply not only about her students, but also about constantly increasing her knowledge about the human body, fitness and movement.

She's extremely knowledgeable about the musculoskeletal system as well as the body's fascial system. As a dancer she has a profound understanding of human movement and this shows in her classes.

If you want to take Pilates, mobility and stretch classes from a true movement professional and all-around great person, please consider Samira for your classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going to Karen’s pilates and stretch classes for almost a decade now. She is an excellent teacher. She has successfully coached me thru my recovery of multiple serious injuries over the years. Her Mobility & Stretch class is especially good for injury recoveries, but all of her classes use a combination of Pilates, fascia stretch, physical therapy exercises, and other techniques that are especially helpful right after physical therapy ends, when you are not quite ready to exercise on your own. Karen is very knowledgeable about successfully modifying movement and she is a cheerful and supportive, reassuring coach. I highly recommend her!

Source: Google

★ 5

Karen’s classes are inspiring and help immensely with my low back issues. I will continue taking her classes; I feel stronger and more relaxed whenever I do. Also, love love love her personality!

Source: Google

★ 5

These classes ease my arthritis, and my stress, and helped me avoid back surgery. Karen/Samira is constantly developing her classes to keep up with current knowledge, helps with modifications when we need, really listens to our goals and encourages us to listen to our bodies. "Motion is lotion!" I am so thankful for these classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira was INCREDIBLE. My family absolutely loved it. My friends were so excited and I heard nothing but rave reviews after the fact, I am so glad we crossed paths!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best belly dancer in the DMV area, highly recommended for all your occasions and parties.

Source: Google

★ 5

She performed Mujra dance for my brother’s birthday party. Did an excellent job. As promised she was on time, awesome performance. Would hire her again.

Source: Google

★ 5

Graceful and captivating are two words which describe Samira. Her routine was flawless and grabbed everyone's attention from the first note. Poetry in motion. A gifted dancer and entertainer.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira performed at our holiday party and nothing short of amazing! A lovely, and very talented professional, her performance was truly the highlight of the evening. Thank you Samira!

Source: Google

★ 5

She’s awesome 👏

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira performed for my 35th bday party. Her performance was wonderful, my guest enjoyed it. I love how she incorporated my guest in her performance. Highly recommend her.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira made my Mom's 60th Birthday Party Celebration a moment to remember! Her Belly dance was amazing and she dressed according to the party scheme!

Source: Google

★ 5

We have hired Samira twice. Once for my father’s 75th and again for his 80th birthday. The first time she performed Indian Bollywood and the second as a bellydancer. Both times she was absolutely brilliant!!! Very professional and classy and just mesmerizing to watch! Her veil dance was pure magic and the candles on her head was phenomenal!! All of it!! Love love love!! Mission Joy for my father and his birthday guests was Accomplished! Thank you!!!!!❤️

Source: Google

★ 5

I've taken classes with Karen for two years, both before and during the current covid 19 crisis. She is a such a wonderful instructor! Her directions are concise and very easy to follow. And she is so well versed on how each movement we do affects our bodies. Karen and the Yoga Center have been super responsive during the pandemic, so much so that we never missed a class because they went to Zoom as soon as everything closed. I highly recommend to anyone to join one of her classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira is amazing! Her work attitude is always professional, positive, and effective. I have been taking her pilates and pilates and stretch classes for years and I love them!

Source: Google

★ 5

Samira is a wonderful Pilates teacher

Source: Google

★ 5

Stunning performance - highlight of the party! Samira kept the program varied with scarf, zills...and that crazy sword. My guests loved every minute. She's both artist and athlete, with a delightful personality that's reflected in her dancing. On the business side, she's an organized professional. The terms of our agreement were clearly presented - a very smooth transaction. Highly recommended!

Source: Google