Pirkko Markula, Ph.D., is a professor of socio-cultural studies of physical activity at the University of Alberta, Canada, as well as a Pilates instructor and contemporary dancer. She is a founding member of the Body, Movement, and Culture research group of qualitative research. In her research she uses qualitative research methods to examine women's exercise experiences, their understandings of health, body-image, and the ideal, fit body. In addition, she is interested how the media, the commercial fitness industry, and the diverse forms of fitness practices shape women's exercise attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Through her practice and her teaching, Dr. Markula aims to promote meaningful exercise practices. Her current research concerns the intersections of health, dance, and mindful fitness.