Jehan Izhar

My name is Jehan but you can call me Jay. I am an ACE Certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor in Santa Barbara, CA. Health and fitness have always been a major part of my life; I began practicing Tae Kwon do when I was four years old and I haven't stopped moving since. I quickly learned that exercise can be more than hobby or something you did to lose weight or "get the perfect body" Exercise is a self esteem boost, an energy lift, a means to becoming physically and mentally stronger, and most of all, a way to live a long, happy, and healthy life.

I attended The University of California Santa Barbara to major in Theatre (my other passion) and minor in Exercise and Sport Studies (emphasis in Fitness Instruction). As a student, I was an intern for a group called HEAL (Health Eating and Living) whose mission was to help educate students about healthy eating and lifestyle habits in order to prevent eating disorders. When I graduated in 2007 I was awarded the Fitness Instruction Minor of the Year.

After graduation I became a personal trainer and group fitness instructor in the Santa Barbara area. I currently train at UCSB where I teach a variety of classes for students and help to run a wellness program for our faculty and staff. I also teach classes at various health clubs in the area specializing in fitness for women, seniors and beginning exercisers. My classes are designed to make exercise fun, safe, and effective for participants of all fitness levels. I have a holistic, non-intimidating approach to training that incorporates the mental, the physical, and most of all, the FUN side of exercise (because what's a great workout without a bit of laughter?)

I have a great passion for traveling and spent three months in Europe as a college student, and have taken trips to Mexico and Australia in the last few years. I would love to combine my love traveling with my love for fitness by helping people stay healthy and happy while they are taking their own exciting vacations.