Zumba Pro Skills – A Review
So remember when I told you guys that I was starting to feel a little stagnant in my Zumba routine? I was really uninspired and everytime I went to go choreograph, it was the same stuff happening. I had hit a wall in my teaching so I decided to do something about it, I took Zumba Pro Skills.
When I woke up last Friday morning, I was SO excited. I got up and left the house with more than enough time to get all the way out to Long Island in time…unfortunately the commute turned out to be a nightmare that had me go from Brooklyn to Queens to Manhattan and finally to Great Neck, Long Island. It was a total mess and I was so frustrated but I would not let that get me down!
When I walked in the MasterClass was already underway. Our instructor for the day was the famous Jani Roberts, she is one of the original Zumba people, and she also taught my original Zumba class. I was so excited because I knew exactly what to expect, fun, high energy and a great personality.
When the masterclass was over we got a little break and I made a beeline to the Zumba wear that was available at discounted rates for us. I was in love. You put two of my favorite things together Zumba and shopping and we have got an explosive situation! I have an insane amount of Zumba clothes, like one day I will do a vlog on how much I have, I may need a separate closet.
Breaking It Down
After that we went through the technical aspects of instructing, it wasn’t just for Zumba but it really was for teaching in general. How to introduce yourself to your class, creating good energy and preparation techniques. We also broke out into groups throughout the day and learned one on one how to implement our new skills. I found this to be the coolest part because in the basic class we were focused in learning moves, this broke it right down to the nitty gritty.
I also had some real a-ha moments that will change the way I manage my class and also help my class to learn quicker while retaining the moves for next time.
Performer or Educator?
We had lunch, did some more drills and we came to a section where she asked us, “Are you more of a performer or educator?” I honestly wasn’t sure how to handle that question, I know I love to make sure my students are getting a good workout by doing the moves correctly but there are certainly times when the music is so good that I put a fancy twist on things. (I can’t help it!)
When it was all said and done I was beyond inspired, I was ready. I got new moves, new songs and I am so excited to implement them on September 14th, for the new session. I have since choreographed 5 new songs and I hope a can do a fully new set (12 songs) for the fall class. Here is one of the new songs that I adore and can’t wait to teach!
Here is one of my newly choreo’d songs:
httpv://youtu.be/NUMOdDx8fmM
What was the last thing you did that left you inspired?
Hi! I’m Nellie. I am a busy mama of three, wife to my high school sweetheart who loves to cook, workout and stay organized! I love to share helpful printables, the best recipes and fitness tips for the modern mom. I strongly believe that every mom can feed their family well, take proper care of themselves and have fun along the way! Read my story.
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My Very First Trip to Atlantic City + Tanya Beardsley's Dancing In The Light - Brooklyn Active Mama
Thursday 24th of October 2013
[...] I went to get my pro skills certification a couple of moths ago, I heard about an event that was being held in Atlantic City at the end of [...]
Patty
Friday 30th of August 2013
How exciting! I would love to try your class this Fall. Send me details :)
Nellie
Monday 2nd of September 2013
I will give you some when I see you next week!
Leslie
Thursday 29th of August 2013
I still maintain that Zumba with you would probably be better than the one I went to (the instructor never said a word to the class - which made it feel like he was disconnected). Though I did do a strength workout today that was TOUGH. There's nothing like trying a new workout that's above your skill level - totally motivating to improve and to be able to finish!
Nellie
Monday 2nd of September 2013
In Zumba training they teach you not to talk, just cue. BUT I often talk to my girls, its a really great way to create energy!
Tamara
Thursday 29th of August 2013
You want to hear something so funny? I had a dream last night that I became a Zumba instructor. I also had a dream that Des got up and walked. I think that second one will actually come true and the first one will just be me being your student one day!
Nellie
Monday 2nd of September 2013
I LOVE IT! Des will be walking (running) any day now!!
Stacie
Thursday 29th of August 2013
Congrats on your certification. I know you're going to rock your class!
Nellie
Monday 2nd of September 2013
Thank you so much Stacie!