Emily is an amazing instructor who has impacted my life and many others with her positive attitude towards all things. In particular, her upbeat attitude is perfect for being a Zumba instructor. This is a powerful passion that she is able to use to uplift other women and promote positive body image. She has made a profound impact on my life, and it always brightens my mood to see her dancing at the front of the class. Thank you, Emily, for being a positive role model to ladies in our community!
Q1: When did you first realize that Zumba was a calling in your life?
When I first went to a Zumba class in October 2014, I knew that I was hooked. I honestly never thought that I would become an instructor, just that I loved how fun and exciting this workout was. I suffer with anxiety, but during that one hour I felt free. I was able to focus on something else and relax even though I was working out. Zumba became my therapy and release. Around 2 years into my experience, I felt that I was being pulled to step out of my comfort zone and give instructing a try. I spoke with my friend Daynelle, who also happened to be the instructor of the class I was attending at the time, for her blessing of my journey. Daynelle was so supportive and excited that I wanted to branch out into instructing. So, my dear friend Roxanne and I went to the training. Now together we co-teach at a location where it feels like home. I’m thrilled that God gave me the grace, peace, and courage to go to the training and become part of this amazing Zumba community.
Q2: What doors have been opened as a result of becoming an instructor?
Oh my, definitely too many to count! I’ve had the great experience of doing Zumbathon fundraisers with other incredibly talented instructors. A few of our events have been working with Relay for Life and also Wellness on the Yough. I have made the most beautiful friends, that I would have never met if I hadn’t become an instructor. There are four more events coming up this year I’m involved with that I’m just so excited about. When you have anxiety, your world can become very small. Thankfully, this journey has opened up my entire world and many doors that I would have never walked through had I never experienced Zumba. Overall, I give the glory to God, and ZUMBA is now part of my own personal testimony.
Q3: How can someone become involved with Zumba?
If you’re interested in classes in your area, you can find some at Zumba.com. Or, you could also ask around on social media. Most of the time, someone will know someone else involved with a class because it is such a great workout.
In addition, you can check out our Zumba Facebook page: ZUMBA with Roxanne and Emily at the Christian Church of Connellsville
I currently teach in two locations and would be happy to have your face in class with me! Every Tuesday at 7 pm and Friday at 6:30 pm you can find me at Find Your Fire Fitness in Mt. Pleasant. I also co-teach at the Christian Church of Connellsville with Roxanne on Monday’s (fitness) and Thursday’s (toning) at 6:30 pm.
Q4: In what ways do you encourage others in your classes?
Each person who comes to our classes are there for a reason. I always make sure that they feel good about being there. Group fitness can be very intimidating, and you can feel vulnerable. It’s important to me for anyone who comes to class, to feel comfortable and beautiful at all times. The moves for Zumba take some getting used to if you’ve never been to a class before and sometimes people can feel out of place. I try to encourage others by making sure they are having fun. If I see them really getting into the moves, I make sure to give them a thumbs up. I always try my best to keep them excited to come to classes with new routines, new movements, and new music. I love hearing stories of how the class has impacted their lives in a positive way or how they look forward to the next class. Watching them transform physically, mentally, and emotionally is so very encouraging for me as well. I feel blessed to be a part of it. People are giving up part of their day to do something for themselves by coming to Zumba. So, it’s important to me that everyone leaves one of my classes feeling better than when they came in.
Q5: In your opinion, what is the best way to let your light shine?
You do you! Whether it’s in a Zumba class or on the street, always be yourself! Don’t ever apologize for being extra! Wear that amazing dress just because, wear that sassy red lipstick everywhere if it makes you feel beautiful, dance down the hall, or sing your heart out while you’re in the car. Always set some time aside in a day for yourself to reboot. Just do what makes you happy and your light will shine! If you’re in a Zumba class, don’t hold back. Just let go, enjoy the music, and HAVE FUN! There’s a saying, “There are no wrong moves, just accidental solos,” and that is so true not only in class, but in everyday life.
Q6: How much impact has your experiences with other women had on your life?
The incredible and beautiful women I have met has been astounding. Not only have I made friendships, but they have also made friendships with each other. It’s so moving to see them encouraging each other on both the good and bad days. I feel blessed, encouraged, loved, and inspired by the women who come to my classes. I pour out so much of myself to others, but what they give back to me is priceless
HCXO,
Allie