5 Years on From the Covid Pandemic - From Zoom to In person & Back to Online!

When COVID-19 changed our lives, many of us found ourselves stuck at home, searching for connection. As gyms closed and in-person gatherings became a thing of the past, I pivoted my passion for dance fitness into the virtual realm. I began teaching Zumba, Zumba Gold, and BollyX classes via Zoom. What began as a challenge transformed into a rewarding journey filled with connection, creativity, and community.

The Magic of Zoom Classes

The pandemic not only filled our lives with uncertainty but also created unexpected opportunities. Teaching dance fitness online expanded my reach to participants all around the globe. Instead of being confined to my local area, I connected with friends and strangers from countries including USA, Greece, Spain and I even had a participant from Nepal on a mountain top. It was truly remarkable.

With each class, we shared laughter and motivation. The diverse backgrounds of my participants added vibrant energy to each session. One memorable instance was a class of Bolly X instructors from around the world who joined simultaniously to bring a whole afternoon of live dance fitness on all time zones.

It was amazing!

These online classes also brought families closer. I watched grandparents dance alongside their grandchildren, and sisters dance with sisters, creating beautiful multigenerational experiences.

We laughed and enjoyed ourselves for an hour at a time, transcending geographical barriers while sharing common moments.

Staying active became a gift that I provided for myself and my students. Regular Zumba, Zumba Gold, and BollyX sessions made sure we remained fit both physically and mentally. Research has shown that engaging in regular dance exercise can improve mood and reduce stress. Our sessions became a comforting routine, giving us structure amid chaos.

What excited me even more was seeing how many participants tried dance fitness for the first time. According to a survey, 47% of new participants stated they were encouraged to try online classes because of the comfort of being at home. This surge of newcomers added fresh energy to my classes, and I thrived on helping them take their first steps.

Transitioning Back to In-Person Classes

As COVID restrictions eased, we faced a new turning point: shifting back to in-person classes. I was thrilled to reconnect with familiar faces and see everyone in person, but I also cherished the incredible online experience we had shared.

Being back in person brought an electric atmosphere filled with laughter and shared movement. The energy in the room was palpable, with the motivational buzz elevating our workouts. Participants were eager to dance, and the camaraderie created during class fostered stronger bonds.

During in-person sessions, I noted key advantages that truly enhanced the experience:

1. Instant Feedback: As a Zumba Gold instructor, I could see participants' immediate reactions to the choreography. This helped me make quick adjustments, ensuring everyone felt included.

   
   

2. Stronger Connections: Dancing side-by-side allowed us to share casual chats before and after class. This created an easy environment to catch up and share highlights from our week.

   
   

3. Energy Boost: The shared excitement of a room full of dancers inspired everyone. Research shows that working out in a group can lead to higher intensity workouts and better results.

   
   

4. Less Distraction: In a dedicated space, external home distractions faded away, (including the regular appearances from Rocket the cat!) allowing everyone to fully enjoy the movement and focus on the class.

   
   

Despite being back in person, some participants expressed nostalgia for the convenience of Zoom classes. They appreciated how online offerings fit easily into their busy lives.

This feedback sparked an idea: why not provide both in-person and online classes? By offering diverse options, I could reach everyone, no matter they choose to join from home or the studio.

The Best of Both Worlds: Online Exercise Classes

The perks of online exercise classes are invaluable. For those with tight schedules, online classes provide unmatched flexibility and comfort.

With Zumba Gold online as part of my virtual program, participants can fit a workout into any part of their day. They gain access to a library of the live classes, filmed and then uploaded, making it convenient to stay active whenever they have the time. Whether it's early morning or late at night, there's always an opportunity for a dance session that suits their schedule.

Additionally, these online classes can be a great starting point for those feeling shy about entering a crowded studio. From home, they can feel free to dance without the watchful eyes of others. It’s a gentle invitation into the dynamic world of fitness.

My virtual classes maintain a supportive community feel. With a lively Whatsapp Group for members, sharing their experiences and motivating one another just as we do when we are together in person.

Join the Zumba Gold Library!

If you're ready to embark on this dance fitness journey with me, I have an exciting offer! You can join the Zumba Gold library for half price for your first month.

This gives you access to a wide variety of on-demand classes, with a new class added every month.

To get your first month half price - just use the code GOLD50 in the checkout.

With no long-term commitment, you can cancel anytime, making this a low-risk chance to explore what our community has to offer.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back 5 years on, my journey from Zoom to the dance floor feels surreal. It has helped me grow not only as an instructor but also as a member of a wonderful global community that thrives on movement and togetherness.

In a world that often feels disorganised, dance fitness offers a joyful way to stay active. Whether you choose to join in person or from your living room, staying fit together is essential. So let’s keep dancing, keep connecting, and embrace the best of both worlds.

Let’s get moving today!

Visit the website for information on my IN PERSON & ONLINE classes