The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

KIM Kikivarakis, a local dance studio owner, is hoping to introduce some of the latest and hottest Zumba moves to the Bahamian public after attending an international convention in Orlando, Florida last week.

The Zumba Instructor’s Convention is for certified Zumba instructors from around the world to come together to learn, share, be creative and party together.

Ms Kikivarakis, who is the owner of Jubilee Dance Studio, is always represented at the convention.

The Zumba Convention included over 200 sessions, 100 learning capsules, 40 different flavours to ramp up style and over 90 presenters from across the globe.

In order to stay on top of trends and at the cutting edge of exercise, Ms Kikivarakis said attending such conventions is a must.

“It’s definitely not mandatory to attend conventions, but if you want the very best, newest moves and freshest music then why wouldn’t you go every year. I’m the only Bahamian that is certified to teach all 10 of the Zumba specialities,” she told Tribune Health.

At Jubilee Dance Studio, Ms Kikvarakis teaches Zumba Basic, Zumba Gold, Zumba Sentao, Zumba Toning., Zumbatamic, Zumba Kids, Aqua Zumba, Zumba Step, Zumba B2, and even Zumbini for babies.

“I love to go and educate myself to benefit my students. They deserve the very best and it’s my joy to bring it for them,” she said.

Zumba has taken off over the past few years, becoming one of the most popular and exciting fitness activities.

Ms Kikivarakis said Zumba’s easy to learn routines and its benefits are what makes it a great form of exercise.

“Zumba is a fun, easy to follow, calorie-burning exercise that’s more of a party with friends and a social activity than working out at a conventional gym. It is fun, people stick with it. It’s sassy, sexy, boosts energy and shows results,” she said. “Many of our ladies say their husbands love for them to come. It spices up your self-esteem, your outlook on life and you gain new friends and a new body. The music is also catchy. We keep it fresh. We keep it fun. We make it a family feeling.”

Jubilee Dance is a modern dance school that specialises in ballet, jazz, and choreography for formal dance, and recently introduced the Latin-inspired Zumba fitness exercise programme.

For more information, visit www.jublieedancestudio.com, the studio’s Facebook page or e-mail kim@jubileedancestudio.com.