Jackie Arista here. I am a licensed ZUMBA and STRONGNation fitness instructor. I truly enjoy teaching both workouts individually and together as I see its benefits to the body, mind, and soul. Since I was young, I became aware of the importance of a healthier lifestyle. The reason being my family has a history of diabetes. Unfortunately, a family member passed due to it. Since then, I knew I had to quickly adopt a healthier lifestyle by eating better and staying active. From high school to University, I was a part of either a sports or a dance team. 

 

After completing my Bachelor's at the University of Albany, I was introduced to ZUMBA Fitness at a gym in Yonkers, NY. It was one of my favorite exercises after work. I remember taking the class as a participant, and one day the Zumba instructor mentioned I should go for my Zumba certification because she saw something in me. Later that year, I decided to go for it and acquired my Zumba certification. Thankfully, I listened as now it's one of my biggest passions and happy places when I teach. In addition, making my participants' day brighter and happier and incorporating fitness into their life is priceless. 

 

I have been teaching Zumba for over eight years but I wanted to provide more to my participants. I decided to pursue a STRONGNation certification. I love teaching STRONGNation because it combines body weight and muscle conditioning. Every squat, every lunge, and every burpee is driven by the music, helping you make it to that last rep and even five more.

 

Most recently, I have also added Circl Mobility to my repertoire of classes. Circl Mobility is a mobility and flexibility program designed to help the body move the way it's intended to. 

 

It brings me joy that now I can provide my participants with fun, dynamic, and engaging classes. My mission is when participants step into my classes, I provide a space they can de-stress, sweat, smile, and have more energy once they are done with my workout. Every time I teach, it refuels me and reminds me this is one of my purposes on this earth, as serving others is like serving God!