At Lionel University, education goes beyond textbooks—it’s shaped by professionals who have spent decades in the field. One such educator is adjunct faculty member Karisha (Isha) Dearing, whose journey from the fitness industry to the classroom is rooted in passion, experience, and a commitment to student success.
With over 20 years in the health and fitness industry, Dearing brings a depth of knowledge that few can match. Her background spans personal training, post-rehabilitation specialization, and leadership roles managing large fitness teams. Throughout her career, she has worked with a diverse range of clients—from youth athletes to older adults navigating conditions like Parkinson’s and autoimmune diseases.
This breadth of experience allows her to offer students more than theory—she provides practical insight into what it truly means to work in the field. Programs like Lionel’s Master Trainer program and Lionel Certified Personal Trainer certification are designed with this same real-world focus in mind.
Dearing’s path to Lionel University began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the closure of health clubs opened the door to a new opportunity. Invited by a former colleague, she stepped into teaching and quickly discovered it was a natural fit.
“It’s a win-win,” she explains. “I’m doing something I’m passionate about and I get to share that with students.”
Now, more than three years into her role, she teaches business and communication courses—an area she believes is critical for aspiring fitness professionals. These courses complement Lionel’s broader academic offerings, including their Associate’s in Exercise Science, Bachelor’s Degree, and Master’s programs.
While exercise science is at the core of Lionel’s curriculum, Dearing emphasizes that technical knowledge alone isn’t enough.
“Communication is huge,” she says. “You need to know how to talk to clients, how to listen, how to respond when someone is struggling.”
From writing professional emails to managing time effectively, these “soft skills” are often what set successful trainers apart. Her courses are designed to ensure students leave not just knowledgeable—but professional, confident, and prepared for real-world interactions.
One of Dearing’s core philosophies is that learning never stops—especially in an ever-evolving field like health and fitness.
Throughout her career, she has attended major industry events, earned numerous certifications, and stayed up to date with emerging research and trends. She encourages students to adopt the same mindset.
“There’s always new information—about the body, movement, different life stages,” she explains. “You have to stay curious.”
Students at Lionel benefit from flexible, modern learning pathways outlined in the Programs Overview, allowing them to balance foundational education with ongoing professional development.
Having worked with hundreds—if not thousands—of trainers, Dearing has seen firsthand the difference between those with certifications and those with degrees.
While certifications provide a foundation, she believes a degree offers a significant advantage.
“With a bachelor’s degree, you’re gaining communication skills, business knowledge, and a broader understanding of how to work with people,” she says. “That’s what helps you stand out.”
From handling emotional client situations to adapting training approaches across age groups and conditions, a well-rounded education prepares students for the realities of the profession. For those considering taking the next step, Lionel also provides guidance through the financial aid process to make education more accessible.
When asked why she recommends Lionel University, Dearing keeps it simple:
“We specialize in exercise science, and we have incredible faculty with real-world experience.”
That specialization—combined with instructors like Dearing—creates an environment where students learn from professionals who have lived the career they’re preparing for.
Karisha Dearing’s story is a testament to the value of experience-driven education. At Lionel University, students aren’t just learning about the fitness industry—they’re learning from someone who has spent decades shaping it.
If you’re interested in starting or advancing your career, explore Lionel’s programs or contact the team to learn more.