About Me

A little about me, James Henry. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Michigan in 1980, where I was a 4-year track letter winner. A catastrophic knee injury in 1981 left me with permanent drop foot on my left leg. Immediately after college I was hired as an assistant coach for Michigan’s track program…and went on to have an historic 42 year coaching career there, including 37 years as head women’s coach.
In 2010 I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. This close call and resulting surgery led me to place a greater focus on my own health. As part of a new exercise regimen -- despite the continuing challenges caused by my dropped foot -- I started urban ballroom dancing and ultimately began teaching in 2015.
Stretching, staying active, and strengthening are the heart of what I do to maintain my health and mobility. It has allowed me over the years to keep up with my athletes and my own two children, and now my two – soon to be three – grandchildren! I strongly believe in helping others achieve a similar quality of life through movement. I subscribe to the philosophy that as we help others to get better, we get better ourselves!