Feel like moving your body, getting fit and meeting new people all in an awesome environment? Not to mention boosting your resume way above your peers? Read on, we've interviewed UCLA Philosophy and Political Science Double Major Maribel Garcia all about her time as a Zumba instructor whilst studying. Plus, you can now grab 15% off Zumba instructor training with your UNiDAYS® college discount!
UNiDAYS®: Why did you decide to become a Zumba instructor?
I have always loved to dance, I took my first dance class at 3 years old. Since then, music and dancing have been a part of me. Once I got to UCLA I wanted to be able to express this passion that I felt for dance while also championing for health and wellness across campus, something that has always been important to me. Zumba was and continues to be the perfect way for me to express who I am as an individual, share my passions with others and also affect very positive change for the thousands of students across campus who have attended my Zumba classes.
UNiDAYS®: How long have you been taking and teaching Zumba classes?
I took my very first Zumba class at my local YMCA back in 2010. It took just one class to get me hooked and so literally the day after my 18th birthday in 2012 I attended my first ever Instructor Training session. This is my 4th year as a Zumba Instructor and every year I discover something new about Zumba that excites me!
UNiDAYS®: Would you recommend being a Zumba instructor to other college students? If yes, why?
YES. YES. YES! I have loved every moment as a Zumba Instructor, it really has changed my life. Zumba is my time to enjoy myself and share my passion with every student who comes through the door. I am sure that other college students will love the thrill of being an instructor and will benefit from it just as much as I have. It is a different experience from just taking a Zumba class but it is incredibly rewarding and really exciting!
UNiDAYS®: What's your favorite move to use in your Zumba classes?
It's so hard to pick a favorite move but I do love to do "single, single, double" because it's a great way to make a simple move in any rhythm look super complicated! It makes everyone feel like they are dance superstars!
UNiDAYS®: Is there a particular song you love to feature in your Zumba classes?
Right now my Zumba classes and I am loving Jennifer Lopez's "Booty". It has such a great beat and vibe, it gets everyone pumped up and ready to werk!
UNiDAYS®: What is the best thing about Zumba?
The best thing about Zumba is that everyone can do it! Often, people tell me that they don't think they will like Zumba because they aren't dancers and every single time I tell them they only have to come willing to have a great time and sweat! Zumba is a fun and invigorating workout for anyone who is ready to get moving. Anyone who has the heart and motivation can enjoy Zumba and even be a Zumba Instructor. I love this because we can reach so many different people and bring them together in new and exciting ways!
A massive thank you to Maribel for this interview, it's been so insightful and we hope we've inspired you to either try Zumba as a class or even as an instructor Don't forget that with UNiDAYS® you can save an awesome 15% on Zumba instructor training!
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