Meet Ann Khamou

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann Khamou.

Ann, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always known that I want to help people in some sort of way. Early on, this led me to become a Social Worker. I received my masters degree in Social Work in 2013 and went off to work in the behavioral health and addiction field. After multiple jobs, burn out really set in and I felt like I was no longer helping anyone.

My anxiety got worse and I felt so unhappy. I decided to start practicing Pilates and did so about five times a week. I felt so much better, not only physically but mentally and emotionally. In so many ways it gave me an outlet and my anxiety improved.

After much contemplation, I decided that I was going to get out of my comfort zone and take a chance, working on my Pilates certification. I received my comprehensive certification through Polestar Pilates and couldn’t be more proud of the accomplishment.

Has it been a smooth road?
Absolutely not! Is it ever? I think we learn best when we have obstacles and challenges. My biggest challenge has always been struggling with anxiety.

With building a business, you’re encouraged to network and go to events, which honestly have proven difficult when you struggle with social anxiety. But the more you do it, the better you learn to manage those thoughts and feelings.

The struggle has been me and getting out of my own way. To not doubt myself and my abilities, to learn to challenge my own thoughts and continue getting better every day.

We’d love to hear more about what you do.
Ann Khamou Pilates is a small, private studio in Central Phoenix. I teach only private sessions at this time, which has tremendous benefits. This allows the client to set and reach their goals and I can work with the body in front of me, tailoring each session to what is needed that day.

Typically, studios have up to 12 reformers and therefore, clients don’t get the attention that at times is needed. In private sessions, clients are able to receive that cueing, modifications, and corrections that will allow them to improve upon and accomplish their goals.

What sets me apart, is that not only am I a certified Pilates instructor, but I am also a licensed social worker. With almost a decade of working background in social work and behavioral health, I recognize and understand the importance of healthy mind AND body. Through my training and education in Pilates, I am able to bridge the gap that exists in balancing the two.

My approach is a unique and fresh way of doing business. It’s important to me to build relationships with my clients, to hear them and really listen to them. My background allows me to facilitate that rapport, be able to recognize their needs, and be someone that they can talk to and open up to.

Is there a quality or characteristic that has played an outsized role in your success?
I think the characteristics most important to my success is being prepared and committed. I create lessons and sessions based on specific client needs and goals, providing an effective service delivery designed to yield optimal results and efficiently achieve goals.

This approach is a reflection of m training and education in Pilates. Rather than clients having a “cookie cutter” and “one size fits all” approach, my commitment allows me to be prepared to work with any type of client and has allowed me to stand out.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://annkpilates.com
• Email: ann.khamou@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annk.pilates/

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