Sara Kooperman, JD – Visionary Leader & Fitness Industry Trailblazer (Long Bio)
Sara Kooperman, JD, is a powerhouse in the fitness and wellness world, transforming the fitness education landscape through her innovation, passion, and relentless drive. As the CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness, Sara has built an empire of fitness education that has empowered over 100,000 fitness professionals in-person and engaged 300,000+ virtually worldwide.
A true visionary and dynamic business leader, Sara is the mastermind behind 7 MANIA® conventions, 6 Streaming Conferences, and more than 40 live and online certifications. Her company’s reach spans the globe, and her legacy includes producing over 600 instructor training videos and publishing multiple books, including the best-selling “FIT FOR BUSINESS”. Her ability to combine creativity with business savvy has made her a sought-after keynote speaker, podcast host, webinar leader, and industry expert.
Sara’s influence extends far beyond her entrepreneurial successes. She’s a regular presenter at major industry events, including the HFA (formerly IHRSA), canfitpro, Filex, Athletic Business Show, Medical Fitness Association, and more. Her presentations are known for their high-energy delivery, cutting-edge insights, and her unique blend of humor and no-nonsense practicality. Whether speaking at Gold’s Gym, the International Council on Active Aging, or international events in Europe, Asia, and Canada, Sara’s impact is undeniable.
A former Les Mills Midwest CEO, Sara spent over a decade leading the organization to incredible success. She’s also served as an adjunct faculty member for renowned institutions like The Kenneth Cooper Institute, ACSM, NASM, ACE, and AFAA, mentoring the next generation of fitness professionals. Her leadership is also reflected in her roles on influential boards, such as the Gold’s Gym Think Tank, the canfitpro Advisory Panel, and as a founding board member of the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA).
Sara’s entrepreneurial achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Illinois State Business Woman of the Year, AEA’s Global Award for Contribution to the Aquatic Industry, and a Gold Medal for her contributions to the economic health of her community. Most recently, she was named the 2022 Most Innovative Fitness Pro by the Fitness Industry Technology Council and is a proud inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame.
Sara’s education includes a law degree from Washington University School of Law, an undergraduate degree from Macalester College, and further studies at Cambridge University in England. She is a passionate advocate for the fitness community, a thought leader on industry trends, and a tireless champion of fitness education that transforms lives.
With her effervescent personality, humor, and boundless enthusiasm, Sara continues to inspire, educate, and lead, leaving an indelible mark on the fitness industry.
Sara Kooperman, JD – CEO & Visionary Leader (Regular Bio)
Sara Kooperman, JD, is the dynamic CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness. Renowned as a visionary leader in the fitness education industry, Sara has revolutionized the way fitness professionals learn, grow, and connect. With an extensive background as a successful business owner, advisor, keynote speaker, published author, and sought-after industry expert, she continues to shape the future of fitness education globally.
Sara has pioneered numerous groundbreaking initiatives, including launching seven highly successful MANIA® fitness conventions, six cutting-edge streaming conferences, and over 40 live and online certification programs. Through her efforts, she has directly impacted the careers of more than 100,000 fitness professionals and reached an additional 300,000+ through virtual platforms. Her company has produced more than 600 instructor training videos, solidifying her leadership in fitness education worldwide.
An active leader in several prestigious fitness organizations, Sara has served on HFA’s (formerly IHRSA) Headlight Committees for Facility Standards and the ACSM Communication & Public Information Committee. She is also a member of the Gold’s Gym Think Tank and an advisor on the canfitpro Advisory Panel. Additionally, she was a founding board member of the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA).
A celebrated figure in the fitness industry, Sara was recently nominated for the IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year Award and received the Most Innovative Fitness Pro honor from the Fitness Industry Technology Council. She is the best-selling author of FIT FOR BUSINESS, an inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, and an Illinois State Businesswoman of the Year. Sara’s work has earned her the prestigious AEA Global Award for her contributions to the aquatic fitness industry.
With a proven track record of innovation, leadership, and impact, Sara Kooperman continues to inspire and shape the future of the global fitness community.
Sara Kooperman, JD (Short Bio)
Sara Kooperman, JD, is the CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness, revolutionizing fitness education globally. A visionary leader, she’s launched 7 MANIA® conventions, 6 Streaming Conferences, and over 40 certifications, impacting 100,000+ professionals. A best-selling author of “FIT FOR BUSINESS”, Sara is a sought-after keynote speaker, podcast host, and industry expert. Former CEO of Les Mills Midwest, she’s served on prominent boards, including the Gold’s Gym Think Tank and canfitpro Advisory Panel. With a law degree from Washington University, an undergrad from Macalester College, and studies at Cambridge University, she’s a National Fitness Hall of Fame inductee.