Student Spotlight on Angela Tan
Over the ten plus years that I’ve taught Zumba so much has changed. Classes have grown, studios have opened and closed, and many students have come and moved on to other places.
But some things have been constant— and some people have remained unbelievably committed and absolutely timeless in terms of the energy they bring to class.
Angela Tan, one of the co-chairs of the Welcome to Taiwan International Club’s Zumba Interest Group, is one of those stellar students!
For nearly a decade, Angela and the other women who hail from all over the world have joined me one or two times a week for our Zumba classes and wowed the entire WTIC with their annual Christmas dance performances.
Talk about commitment!
So what’s the secret to sticking with a fitness habit for so long? Fun + Friends!
Check out this Student Spotlight featuring Angela Tan to find out more!
K- We have been dancing together for so long now, but can you tell me, did you always have an interest in dance or fitness?
A- When I was very little I did a little ballet, dodgeball, basketball, and also tried to learn to swim. I joined WTIC in 1998 after participating in some activities. Then they added a salsa class. I had no idea what it was - I thought maybe it was a food! Haha! When our previous teacher became too busy she suggested we try Zumba. She said it’s perfect for us because it’s more like exercise, and we don’t have to remember the steps. So that’s how we met you!
K- Lucky for all of us! How does it feel to join class?
A - We have learned so much and we think it’s a great exercise for our age - actually any age ! When we hear the music we just follow you! The whole hour is very relaxing and we enjoy it so much.
K- What about it is so enjoyable?
A- Well, we like to try to have people go to class first, then we go have lunch or coffee together after. It’s a social club, and our main purpose is to make people from other countries, diplomatic representatives’ wives, and people that have lived abroad for many years know more about and feel welcome in Taiwan.
K- Do you feel any different physically or health-wise from taking the class?
A- Yes, of course. When I wake up in the morning , on the way to class I try to wake myself up . Well, my face is probably not too excited if anyone sees me, but being a chairperson I know I have to go! As soon as everyone walks in and the music is on, wow, in a second I’m awake and I feel really into it until the very last moment. I feel so good. Everything is brighter. My vision seems better. My brain is clearer, and I just feel much better. I’m energetic for the rest of the day . And I sleep much better at nighttime, too!
K- I think the hardest thing is to show up. What would your advice be on how to keep sticking with class?
A- Well, I would make up so many excuses to not go to the gym, but for this class I just follow the schedule. I’m the co-chair so I need to set the example. Because we are all friends and like to meet, we are just happy when we see each other. And everyone loves to see your cheerful face . You don’t push us too hard , so we feel free. You know, we want everyone to release the pressure, not add more.
K- One of the highlights of our group is our performance at the annual WTIC Christmas Luncheon. Can you tell me what it’s like to be on stage dancing at the event?
A- With other teachers we always had to memorize the moves and the teachers wouldn’t get on stage with us, but with you Zumba is very simple . I say if I can do it, then anyone can do it !
K- Yes, I always like to offer to be there so that everyone is more comfortable.
A- Yes, we are more confident because you are with us! It helps people feel like they don’t need to worry if they aren’t good enough ! Even if I miss some steps, no one notices.
K- And we always get such great feedback from other club members on the performance!
A- Yes, it really wakes everyone up! Last year at our big Biennial Conference, we had so many people tell us how much they loved our dance! Plus you got everyone in the audience to get up and dance with us for one song. Everyone went crazy! It really woke everyone up after all the sitting and eating!
K- Last question: Did you notice recently I have been talking more to lead the class, doing more balance work and simplifying more steps — this is because of the Zumba Gold training I did —what are your thoughts on this new style of class?
A- Yes, we noticed! We think it’s perfect. We can dance like this forever. Even our members in their 80s feel like they can have fun and keep up!
So there you have it: friendship, fun and freedom to follow at your own pace are some of the secrets to staying active far into the future! So, grab your best bud and add some physical activity to your next hangout!
Huge thanks to Angela for sitting down to share her Zumba story with us before our group hits the stage for our performance next week at the Christmas Luncheon!
To bring dance to your next special event, birthday party, or company gathering, don’t forget you can reach out here!
Keep moving!
xx,
Katie
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