Jerome Karzen

Jerome (Jerry) Karzen is a distinguished Feldenkrais trainer with over 45 years of experience practicing and teaching the Feldenkrais Method. He is one of only two remaining original trainers personally appointed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais in 1982, a select group that included eight Israeli practitioners. Since beginning his Feldenkrais career in 1977, Karzen has dedicated his life to advancing somatic education and promoting physical awareness and wellness through movement. He has taught worldwide, directing basic and advanced Feldenkrais programs, and has served as Educational Director for more than 40 four-year Feldenkrais Somatic Health training programs.

Before his work in Feldenkrais, Karzen served as an epidemiologist for the World Health Organization in West Africa from 1969 to 1971, contributing to vaccination and public health initiatives. He holds a Master of Philosophy in European History and Philosophy, as well as a Master’s in Cultural and Intellectual History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Karzen also pursued advanced studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, further enriching his understanding of cultural and historical contexts, which inform his holistic approach to teaching and coaching.

Karzen’s connection to the Feldenkrais Method began when he experienced significant relief from chronic back pain during a movement class in San Francisco. Intrigued by the results, he attended a training led by Dr. Feldenkrais himself, forming a professional relationship with the founder. In 1982, Karzen organized Dr. Feldenkrais’ final training in Amherst, Massachusetts, and was subsequently appointed as a certified trainer, entrusted with continuing the method’s teachings. Over the decades, he has helped expand Feldenkrais training from just a handful of programs to more than 100 worldwide, including flagship programs in Russia and China, where he serves as the main trainer.

Throughout his career, Karzen has worked extensively with individuals seeking to improve posture, alignment, and overall body awareness. His expertise spans a range of conditions, including scoliosis, chronic pain, and movement limitations. As a trainer, he has guided countless practitioners in mindfulness, meditation, wellness coaching, and bodywork, emphasizing the integration of mental and physical well-being. He has also contributed to the preservation of Feldenkrais’ legacy, assisting in the publication of one of Dr. Feldenkrais’ books and serving as a former president of the Feldenkrais Guild of North America.

At 88 years old, Karzen continues to teach, train, and practice, maintaining an active presence in international Feldenkrais programs. His lifelong dedication to movement education and somatic awareness has made him a highly respected figure in the field, known for his deep knowledge, pedagogical skill, and commitment to helping individuals achieve improved function and quality of life. Fluent in English, French, and German, he combines cultural understanding with technical expertise, inspiring both students and clients worldwide.

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Master of Philosophy, European History/Philosophy (1956–1962)
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Master’s Degree, Cultural and Intellectual History (1956–1962)
• University of California, Los Angeles – Advanced Studies in Cultural and Intellectual History (1963–1965)

• Appointed Feldenkrais Trainer by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais (1982)

• Former President, Feldenkrais Guild of North America

• Feldenkrais Guild
• Feldenkrais Guild of North America

• Organized Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais’ final training; ongoing international Feldenkrais training programs

Helped get one of Moshe Feldenkrais's books published. The client was involved in the editorial process and publication of at least one book by Feldenkrais, though the specific title was not mentioned in the conversation.