Katey Besser, born and raised in Los Angeles, is a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, Professional Dancer, and aspiring Physical Therapist. She recently graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Kinesiology and B.F.A in Dance. With 18+ years of training in the performing arts and fitness industry, she finds movement the most freeing form of expression.

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Seeing how her strength, power, endurance, and mobility improved through cross training inspired her to create BackStage Fitness (BSF). Growing up in a rigorous dance training program, she struggled with body image and low self esteem. Overcoming this through strength training has greatly impacted her daily and professional life. This program has allowed her to train as an athlete and hopes to inspire others to do so as well.  

 

After receiving her personal trainer certification in 2020, Katey led High Intensity Interval Training classes at MVMNT Fitness on the UofM campus.  Additionally, she has spent summers working as a Physical Therapist Aide at Performing Arts Physical Therapy and as a personal trainer at LA Fitness.  She was awarded with an EXCEL Enterprise Fund from the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance and created a website with training exercises for fellow students.

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In dance she grew up training at the Performing Arts Center in styles of ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and modern. She spent summers training with The Joffrey Ballet Chicago, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Laguna Dance Festival, and Springboard X. While at the University of Michigan she performed works choreographed by Sidra Bell, Shannon Gillen, and Charli Brissey as well as several BFA and MFA capstone performances. She grew a passion for choreography and loves teaching dance. In addition to choreographing several works, she has produced two dance shows and collaborated with other artists including filmakers to create dance on film pieces. Since moving back to LA, some of her recent work includes MUSE/IQUE’s performance of La Bamba choreographed by Kitty McNamee, dancing with Maura Townsend Dance Project, dancing on "Little White Lies" film, and being apart of IAF Mentorship.  She continues to train and teach in the Los Angeles community.

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Katey brings a distinctive coaching style shaped by her dance training, background in health sciences, and knowledge of athletic training principles. Her drive stems from movement, which she sees as a tool to foster community, enhance overall health, and elevate quality of life.

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