Meet the Coach: Karsten Korbel
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Karsten Korbel, a 52-year-old Personal Trainer and EMS Strength Coach, has etched his name into the annals of Malaysia’s running community.
Born into a football-enthusiast family, Karsten’s journey began with the thrill of competitive sports. Running, however, soon emerged as his enduring passion.
“I’ve always loved running,” he recalls with a nostalgic smile. “Even as a kid, I would complement my football training with runs, accompanied by my trusty Sony Walkman DD2.”
From Passion to Profession
Karsten’s running journey took a serious turn in 2011 when he participated in his first half-marathon at the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM). The experience was transformative.
“Watching the full marathon flag off, I knew I had to try it. By the end of 2011, I had run my first three full marathons. That’s when the running bug bit me hard.”
This newfound dedication pushed him to delve deeper into training methodologies. His career shift from the corporate world to opening a Personal Training studio specializing in Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) marked a pivotal moment.
“Understanding anatomy, physiology, and nutrition enhanced my coaching skills. It was the perfect blend of passion and profession.”
Beyond Running: A Passion for EMS
Apart from running, Karsten is deeply invested in his role as an EMS Strength Coach.
“EMS is a game-changer. It significantly improves quality of life, and I’ve been working tirelessly to popularize it in Malaysia.”
His dedication stems from a desire to combat unnecessary ailments and sedentary lifestyles with just 20 minutes of weekly EMS training.
Karsten’s approach to coaching is highly individualized. “There’s no one-size-fits-all method in running. Each runner responds differently to various techniques.”
His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of mental strength. “Consistency is key. Visualizing success can help overcome adversities during a race.”
Rewarding Moments and Inspiring Others
For those just starting their running journey, Karsten offers practical advice. “Set achievable goals, plan your training, and focus on consistency over intensity. Gradually increase mileage and incorporate strength training to prevent injuries. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and remember why you started.”
Karsten acknowledges that maintaining consistency and incorporating strength training are common challenges. “Strength training isn’t optional; it’s essential for injury prevention and performance enhancement.” His strategy involves educating runners about the long-term benefits of strength training.
The impact Karsten has on runners’ lives is evident in their feedback. “Hearing that my advice has helped someone overcome an injury or achieve a personal goal is incredibly rewarding.” His presence at KLSCM clinics and active social media engagement are constant sources of inspiration for many.
Becoming an Official Coach for KLSCM
Being an official coach for KLSCM 2024 is a dream come true for Karsten. “I’ve always admired the KLSCM coaches and learned so much from them.
To be selected as one is the pinnacle of my coaching career. KLSCM is Malaysia’s premier running event, and it’s an honour to contribute to its legacy.”
As KLSCM 2024 approaches, Karsten invites runners to join the running clinics and embark on a journey of growth and achievement.
His expertise, passion, and commitment make him an invaluable guide for runners of all levels.
So, lace up your shoes and get ready to explore the heart of Kuala Lumpur with Karsten Korbel and the KLSCM community.
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