Jim Gibilterra is living proof that yoga exists for everyone, and that anyone can benefit from regular yoga practice.
Jim began practicing yoga in 2011, after having a knee replaced. The non-impact, non-competitive and non-judgmental nature of yoga helped him to lose over 150 lbs., and become a stronger, healthier and happier person.
“When I suggest to people to try a yoga class, I often hear them say they’re not flexible enough, healthy enough, or young enough for yoga. I tell them you don’t need any of that to do yoga… you do yoga to get more flexible, to become healthier, and to stay young – physically and mentally.”
Jim has 12 years of active yoga practice, has attended several yoga retreats and workshops, and yoga classes with over 70 teachers in Aruba, Dubai, Thailand, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, the UK, Italy, Spain, France and all over the USA. As a result of his inspiring yoga journey, several teachers suggested Jim consider teaching yoga.
In September 2015, Jim completed the AFAA Yoga Teacher Training course and certification, and in April 2016, Jim completed his 200-hour yoga teacher training at Yoga Alliance-certified TriBalance Yoga School in Schaumburg, IL. With over 2,000 hours of yoga teaching, Jim is now an ERYT-200 (Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher). Jim has completed an additional certification program specially designed for people with osteo and rheumatoid arthritis. His YFA (Yoga For Arthritis) classes provide joint strengthening and stability, helping folks with these conditions to lead more active lifestyles, prevent injury and recover faster from surgeries.
Today, Jim teaches an inspiring, life-enhancing yoga practice. He welcomes any participants with physical challenges or issues. His open, cheerful, humorous style is endearing and welcoming, embodying the spirit of Yoga.
Currently, in addition to Yoga for Arthritis, Jim teaches a 5-class series for the raw beginner, a Sunday morning flex yoga class, Yin classes and a slow and gentle flow class, and multiple all levels classes.
Jim also teaches a chair yoga class for active adults.
Jim has taught a corporate workplace yoga program beginning with employer-sponsored weekly Yin-restorative classes. He often subs and donates his time doing free Karma classes. Jim is experienced in Yin, Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, and other styles of yoga.
“My goal as a teacher is to help anyone to become healthier, no matter what physical issues they have. It’s my way of paying back the universe for all the wellness professionals and kind spirits in the yoga community who have helped me so much.”
Certifications:
Yoga for Arthritis Level I Training, October 2024
200 hour Yoga Alliance Yoga Teacher Certification, TriBalance Yoga, May 2016
Schwinn Indoor Cycling Instructor Certification, September 2015
AFAA Yoga Teacher Training Certification, Campanelli YMCA, September 2015