The Who, What, When, Where, Why, & How

Four years ago, Lauren Brady was a 21-year-old student at the University of Florida and a member of the UF Dazzlers. She was introduced to a new craze called Zumba and before long she was hooked! Lauren adapted her Dazzler moves and became a Zumba instructor at Southwest Recreational Center just like our friend Gina Castano. By combining her favorite halftime moves with Reggaeton beatz, Lauren created her own Zumba sizzling style.

Dazzler Lauren and Albert

Lauren’s dancing skills as a Zumba instructor and as a UF Dazzler led her to a bigger stage. After graduating, she continued to teach Zumba at Gainesville Health and Fitness in addition to landing a full-time job as Coordinator/Coach of the UF Dazzlers and Mascots.

The Dazzler Zumba instructor who dazzles…I like it, and I like her more.

Want to know more about her?

Yes. Good because ask and a you shall receive…

What is your favorite style of dance? 

I love hip hop because it is so fun, energetic, and sassy!  It is a way to escape the mundane of the everyday and find your inner Beyonce!

Were you nervous to teach Zumba classes?

I taught “Gator Funk” and other dance classes back in the day (2005).  I was so nervous when I began teaching that I would write out my routines and practice in my dorm room. I would tape them on the mirror in case I needed to reference them.  I started a binder with a bunch of dances “flirty flick”, “sassy walk”, “shimmy”, “pop and drop”, and “The Britney” from all my classes.  When I started Zumba I had already been teaching for 3 years, but was still nervous! But, I memorized my music and practiced, practiced, practiced. Though I didn’t understand the lyrics (I do not know Spanish), I knew every beat and tempo, and knew the counts of each bridge, verse, and chorus change.

What is your all-time favorite Zumba song? 

Probably Waka Waka by Shakira or Prrum by Cosculluela

How do you come up with new songs and dances? 

I check the top songs on iTtunes under Latino, Google “the best Zumba Songs” or “new Zumba songs”, check for new songs from my favorite artists, visit other classes, trade ideas with other instructors. The ZIN program will send you new music and choreography, but I personally like to create my own “routines” because I like the creative aspect of it.

How do you stay motivated to teach class after class after class? 

The people! I feel like it is impossible NOT to be motivated when you have a crowd of people who look like they are having a blast.

Have you thought about opening your own studio?

I haven’t YET, but just wait!

Why should men do Zumba? 

Guys who want to learn to dance should come because they will get better each time! You can learn rhythm, style, and plus, women love when a guy can dance

Why should anyone do Zumba? 

It is a work out that you will actually enjoy and look forward to doing. You do different moves so you are always working different areas of your body. Plus, it is a full hour of cardio! How many people can stay on a cardio machine for an hour? You become a better dancer and gain confidence. I see smiles in the crowd during Zumba, which is not common in a fitness class!

Urban Active Gym & Georgia Force Cheerleader

Lauren - Georgia Force Cheerleader

If you are in Atlanta, GA you can take a Zumba class with Lauren out at Urban Active. Oh and you can check Lauren out in Arena Football as a Georgia Force Cheerleader.

I told you this chick is talented!

Come back on Monday to get my personal experience with Lauren’s class and get her current rock’n Zumba playlist.