Tanja - (RYT-200) - I moved to the US about 15 years ago where I decided to obtain a second degree in Communications and Psychology at Rutgers University.

Originally I was born and raised in Germany where I occupied my spare time with ballroom dancing and performing dance routines at social events.  I have always loved Latin American dances which is most definitely the reason for my passion for Zumba.

Since my Zumba Instructor Certification over 1 year ago I have been addicted just like so many other that have given Zumba just that one chance!

I have always been active in the Fitness Industry, in different disciplines including teaching swimming lessons at the YMCA and private Country Clubs.

In addition  to teaching Zumba and my full time job at a full service Trade Show and Event Management company in Fairfax, VA I have been working on my RYT200 - Yoga Teacher Certification in a new school of Yoga called Yava Yoga founded by Cynthia Bialek, which I completed in March 2008.

KIKI - Why I Zumba? Zumba changed my life. I had no dance background but loved to dance. I felt uncoordinated and clumsy.  After one Zumba class I was hooked. I felt sexy and confident and there was no pressure. It didn’t matter if I did the move just like the instructor. There was no one walking around the room correcting my form and best of all there is no talking or counting.

I love that you can actually hear and feel the music. Zumba music is always

upbeat and exotic. I listen to many cultural types of music like bhangra, reggeaton, and belly dancing because of Zumba.

Why Zumba is good for you? Over the past year I have lost over 40 pounds and 25 inches from my body. I went from a size 14 to a size 8. I have more energy and my body is tight and tone and I don’t spend hours in the gym.

I want to share Zumba and the positive results with everyone I meet and have the chance to teach.