Zumba: an interview with Shannon

ArtCityFanatic: What exactly IS Zumba?

Shannon: Zumba describes itself on its website as “an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party^™ that’s moving millions of people toward joy and health.”

In my own words, Zumba Fitness is an easy-to-follow hour of FUN where you move, dance, and sweat to the exciting rhythms of Latin and international music.
ACF: How did you get into Zumba? How long have you been teaching?

Shannon: I discovered Zumba in 2008 when I went to the wrong aerobics class. It was kickboxing, but at the end of class the instructor threw in a few Zumba songs. I was immediately taken. It was different and it was fun. I heard that the very first Zumba instructor training was coming to Utah in a couple weeks, and I signed up. Before then, aerobics was my favorite hobby but I had never taught it. I decided to start.

After getting licensed to teach Zumba Fitness I got my primary group exercise certification from the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) along with my CPR and first aid certs. I started teaching in November 2008. I’ve also taught step, hi-lo aerobics, and kickboxing, but Zumba Fitness is my absolute favorite format to teach. It makes people happier and stronger.

ACF: Can anyone join the class?

Shannon: Of course! Zumba is suitable for all levels of fitness. In my classes I show variations of intensity and you can pick what level feels good for you. We also repeat routines a lot. The repetition makes you familiar with the routine, and once you’re comfortable you can make the moves bigger and add your own flavor and style. And that’s when Zumba becomes really fun!

Some of my students have told me on their first day, before we even started class, that they were nervous and worried they might be a little out of their comfort zone. But after trying it once and coming back a few times they forgot all about being self-conscious. They were having too much fun!

ACF: How much is a class?

Shannon: We meet Monday and Wednesday nights at 8:30 pm. $5/class or $20/month. You can pay in advance for several months and save 10%. Family discount: First person is $20/month, each additional is $10/month.

I offer my students a bonus: I also teach Zumba at Charisma Dance in Springville (1170 S 900 E) on Saturday morning at 8 am. They can attend that, or any other Zumba Fitness class taught at Charisma during the week, for just $2/class.

443 So. 200 E. (just east of the Art Museum)

Mondays & Wednesdays at 8:30pn

ACF: What is your website/blog?

Shannon: My blog is zumbawithshannon.blogspot.com.

My Facebook page is www.facebook.com/utahzumba (or you can search for “Zumba with Shannon”).

My Zumba.com profile page is http://www.zumba.com/profiles/23786.

People can also contact me by email: zumba2fitness@gmail.com.

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Thank you, Shannon, so much!

You've got a great, energetic, fun class!!