'When it comes to fitness, the word that often comes to mind is \"self-discipline\". The word \"self-discipline\" seems to be equated with perseverance, patience and rigor, and often conjures up images of clenched teeth and painful expressions. But is it possible to be happy in fitness, and does self-discipline have to be very hard on yourself?   Kara, a fitness coach, believes that empathy is even more crucial. Just as you wouldn\'t ask a child to run fast on the first day they learn to stand, adults need to be empathetic with themselves - it\'s possible to get fit and healthy with patience, without ridicule or self-doubt, and in a happy, relaxed, positive and encouraging community. Kara wakes up at 4:40 a.m. and is sure to show up every day to lead her students in their workouts. As a fitness coach, she continues to work out every day, both for herself and her students, and this is her 18th year in Guangzhou.   When she was 20 years old, she became a fitness coach because of her love for sports and fitness. After coming to Guangzhou for a few short months to work as an English teacher, she was even more determined to do what she wanted to do in the future - to make fitness coaching a lifelong career and encourage more people to stay healthy. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx' 

Tags: fitness , Health , body , english , self , TEDxTalks , empathy , self improvement

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