Helen James: A Legacy of Science and Movement

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We are honored to introduce our February Featured Rolfer, Helen “Jimmer” James. A true pioneer in our community, Jimmer’s career spans over seven decades of profound contribution to the fields of Physical Therapy and Rolfing® Structural Integration.

The Academic & Clinical Foundation

Jimmer’s journey began with an M.S. in Physical Therapy from the University of Pennsylvania in 1949, followed by an M.A. from Stanford in 1969. Her academic footprint is massive; she helped establish the Physical Therapy program at California State University-Fresno in 1973, where she taught for decades and holds the title of Professor Emeritus. In 2020, she was awarded an Honorary PhD in Science for her revolutionary work in PT education and peer-reviewed fascial research.

Bridging to Structural Integration

After receiving her first Rolfing Ten-Series® from Kathy Robertson, Jimmer trained at the Rolf Institute, graduating in 1981 and completing Advanced Training in 1988. She didn't just practice; she shaped the next generation of healers as an Assistant Instructor alongside legends like Neal Powers, Jim Asher, and Sally Klemm.

Working with Champions

Jimmer’s touch has reached the highest levels of athletic excellence. Since 1984, she has worked with Olympic and World Champion figure skaters, including:

  • Brian Orser
  • Michelle Kwan
  • Elvis Stoyko
  • Isabelle Brasseur & Lloyd Eisler

A Data-Driven Future

Even as she retired from private practice at the age of 95, Jimmer’s work for our profession continues. She is currently synthesizing a monumental dataset—14 different PT measurements taken before and after the Rolfing Ten-Series on over 1,200 patients across 42 years. This analysis promises to provide a scientific bedrock for the efficacy of Structural Integration for years to come.

For additional information and donate to Jimmer's research project: CLICK HERE

Recently honored with the 2025 DIRI Lifetime Achievement Award, Jimmer remains a beacon of lifelong learning and professional excellence. For a deeper dive into her storied life, we invite you to revisit the December 2024 issue of Structure, Function, Integration for the tribute article, "Honoring Helen 'Jimmer' James."