Conversations with Gizem Cercioglu Schimming

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gizem Cercioglu Schimming .

Hi Gizem , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
🌿 My Story: A Journey of Movement, Resilience & Heart My name is Gizem, and I’m the founder of GIZEN, a home Yoga & Pilates Studio in Lake Worth, Florida. But my journey with yoga and Pilates started long before I came to the United States.

Back in Turkey, I was not only an English teacher — I was already deeply immersed in the world of movement and wellness. I had been practicing and teaching yoga and Pilates for years, finding joy and purpose in helping others feel stronger, calmer, and more connected to themselves. It was more than a job — it was a calling.

Then life took a beautiful, unexpected turn. I moved to the U.S., full of hope and uncertainty. Leaving behind my home, my career, and the life I had built, I knew I was starting over. Everything was unfamiliar — the language, the culture, the system. And although I had the knowledge and passion, I had to begin again from the ground up.

While adjusting to my new life, I slowly started to rebuild — teaching where I could, offering private sessions, and connecting with people one by one. It wasn’t easy. Some days were heavy with doubt. But yoga and Pilates always brought me back to center. They reminded me who I am: strong, grounded, and filled with love for what I do.

In time, I met Derek — my partner in life and in business. We shared a dream of creating a space that felt like home. A space where people could move, breathe, enjoy a warm coffee or glass of wine, and feel truly welcome. That dream became GIZEN — a reflection of everything we love.

Today, GIZEN is more than a studio. It’s a piece of my heart. A place where I bring years of experience, healing, and love — not just from my training, but from my journey. A space where others can also begin again, reconnect with themselves, and feel held in every step of their path.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I didn’t graduate from a sports academy or study kinesiology. I come from a background in Western Languages and Literature — I was an English teacher in Turkey, passionate about language, communication, and human connection. Still, the road wasn’t smooth. Many teachers and professionals didn’t welcome me at first. Some looked down on my academic background. Others questioned my success. I didn’t “look” like the typical teacher. I didn’t come from the “right” place. But I kept going. What I lacked in credentials, I made up for in passion, dedication, and hours of hard work. I studied relentlessly, taught anyone who would show up, and built real relationships. I didn’t just teach — I served. I listened. I learned. I grew.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in personalized, mindful practices that blend the strength of Pilates with the grounding presence of yoga. Whether it’s one-on-one sessions, group classes, retreats, or small community events, I focus on creating experiences that feel deeply connected and human. I am known for balancing my cheerful encouragement with butt-kicking workouts. I combine Pilates and Yoga in my classes and give much importance on stretches.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?

What I love most about Lake Worth is its soul. It’s not a flashy city — it’s real. It has this creative, eclectic energy that draws in artists, healers, small business owners, and free spirits. People here appreciate community over competition, and that means everything to me.

I love how close we are to nature — the ocean, the breeze, the light. It makes this a beautiful place to practice yoga, to ground, and to breathe. I just hate hot weather. That is all !

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gizemcercioglu.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gizem_cercioglu?igsh=MTV2dnk4ajI4cnl1dw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr