World Dance Fusion: It's More than Dance, It's Family Tradition!

Why did you become a fitness instructor? Becoming a World Dance Fusion fitness instructor was an evolution for me. I was already into dance and fitness as well as a professional educator, so this was a logical next step.

What are the traits you look for in an excellent instructor  Someone who has excellent technique, breaks things down clearly, knows modifications, and makes things fun!

...and how does that influence your teaching style? I come from a background in Physical Therapy, so I approach every class with "do no harm" mindset. I feel my participants become better aware of body mechanics and hence get a healthier workout.

What motivates you to get out there and exercise yourself? I love to walk, and that is my first choice for physical activity, followed by dance. I love the feeling of being awake and renewed that a good workout brings me.

Favorite dance step, why? It is what my favorite teacher, mentor and friend Kukuwa calls moving your "boomsbey". Simple circular rotation of the hips down one direction and back up the other. I love the core workout and the toning benefits. It is just simply pure fun! 

Inspirational Quote: "I have just got to do a better job at getting them to play better." John Harbaugh, coach of the Baltimore Ravens. My philosophy on teaching, if I stay on top of my fitness game, my participants will too.

Exercise: My "Drug" of Choice - Robin Jackson, Joy of Fitness Instructor

Why did you become a fitness instructor?

I always say I was thrown into teaching group exercise classes and I'm glad I was.  I enjoy the positive energy that flows throughout class.  Besides that, I love to see people working out and benefiting from it.

What are the traits you look for 

in an excellent instructor and 

how does that influence your teaching style? 

I look for high energy and how well engaged an instructor is with their participants.  I've been around numerous instructors from various backgrounds and these two traits have proven to be the most important for success in teaching.

What motivates you to get out there and exercise yourself?

I just love the feeling I get when I workout!  It's a huge part of my life.  Outside of the benefits one gets from exercising, it just makes me feel good.  It's a natural stress reducer and if I go too long without it I can feel my body getting lazy and tense.  Exercise is my "drug" of choice :)

Favorite exercise, why?

It's a toss up between a Walkout and a Turkish Get Up.  Both demand major core strength which of course is the powerhouse of the body!

Inspirational Quote:

"The quality of strength lined with tenderness is an unbeatable combination." ~ Maya Angelou