Zumba Dance Party for a cause!

Are you busy tomorrow night?

If not, join EMZ Instructor Satomi Biggs at a Zumba charity event she is participating in.

All the proceeds from this event will go to the Olive Osmond Hearing Fund, which is a foundation that helps educate and supplies hearing aids for those in need.

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

$5

Riverton High School

12476 S. Silverwolf Way

Riverton, UT

Class Schedule for the remainder of 2013

Here's a couple important dates to note:

December 20th (Friday)

Thank you to the wonderful class members who have put this together to raise funds to help cover the cost to attend the 2014 Zumba Conference held in Los Angeles, California.

December 23rd & 24th - CLASS @ regular time

December 25th & 26th - NO CLASS

December 27th - CLASS @ regular time & Holiday Party (more details to come)

December 30th & 31st - CLASS @ regular time

January 1st - NO CLASS

January 2nd - back to normal schedule

NeighborWorks Salt Lake - Outstanding Community Service Award

On November 20, 2013, we had the honor of attending NeighborWorks Salt Lake's 36th annual meeting where we were recipients of the Outstanding Community Service Award.  We received a beautifully framed award & $250.

Here are a few pictures from that evening.

Instructor Beti Tu'aefe with her family on the cover of the program.

Program.

Dinner catered by Frida Bistro.

Beti

Silia & Beti

Sela & Souna

Twig, Betsy & Lila

Liu

Receiving award.

 Maki San always goofing off.

Maki San being serious.

Instructors with the Director Maria.

Who does that?  After the dinner we stopped by Leatherby's for some ice cream.

Westview Media article that came out this week.

Thanksgiving Classes in Utah

We hope you can join us at ours...but in case you can not due to distance, here's a list of Zumba classes being offered in the state of Utah.

Next Week's Schedule

Hi guys!!!  I know...sounding like a broken record here.  We have so much to catch up on...and unfortunately, it's not going to happen in this post.  In fact, this will be a quick, short post.

A few have been asking about next week's schedule.  It is as follows:

There WILL BE class on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday ONLY (November 25 - 28).  We are thinking of possibly taking Thursday's class into overdrive and going an hour and a half.  We'll see.

NO CLASS on Friday, November 29th.

Also, we have something fun planned for y'all next month.  Stay tuned!!!

VIVA LA EMZ!!!

EMZ Crew Main Event - master class

This post is way over due.   Our apologies for not keeping our blog updated.

Here's what's happening at EMZ the next couple days.

Tomorrow - Halloween - October 31st -  you got it!  We are having a Halloween theme class.  Come dressed in a costume you can work out in.  Bring a treat to share.

Friday, November 1st

NO CLASS in the morning

We would however love for you to join us in the evening for our 1 1/2 hour MASTER CLASS!  Those who attended last year probably already know this -- it's not your ordinary Zumba Master Class.  You do not want to miss out.

If you buy your ticket(s) prior to event, cost is $20.  At the door, $25.

Here's a preview of last year's class:

We hope you are excited for this class.  We definitely are.  We have received some feedback from a few class members & concerned individuals.  Doing the best we can, we will try and address a few of the questions that were asked such as:

What is a master class?  A master class is a class longer than one hour, normally an hour and a half.

Is this event FREE?  No, it is not FREE.  It is our only event all year long we charge admission.  Our usual morning classes M-F, 52 weeks a year are FREE.

Are young children allowed at this event?  No due to no daycare available & safety reasons.  Children 12 years and older are welcome to join with a paid ticket $20 if purchased before event, $25 at the door.

I heard there will be raffle tickets available for purchase - how much & what are the items being raffled?  We will have two different prices for the raffle tickets - $1 tickets & $5 tickets.  The $1 tickets - different baskets containing different themes such as Zumba wear, laundry products, EMZ wear, and much more.  Our $5 tickets is a $300+ Jazz package for two that includes 2 game tickets, parking & dinner. Thank you to our wonderful sponsors/donors for your help with these items.  (Post coming soon with additional details.)

Will you be selling EMZ merchandise at the event?  We will have wristbands.  New EMZ gear will be available after the event.  We do however have vendors who will be there selling some merchandise.  Bring some extra cash if you are interested.  No ATM at event.

The money from this event,  where is it going?  Not that it's anyone's business but the instructors, we don't mind sharing how the money is being used.  We have all agreed to take the money and put it towards covering cost for additional learning - in many of our cases, the plan is to attend the 3 day Zumba conference end of January 2014.  Each instructor is responsible for paying the $300+ registration fee & the cost of travel, room & food paid with money earned from event, merchandise sale & other fundraisers.  It would've been nice to have that covered, but with 14 instructors, that alone would equal 5 grand.  Also on our bucket list - attend the Florida Zumba convention...to be continued.

What is the Zumba conference?  It is a 3 day conference held in Los Angeles where licensed instructors from all over the world attend.  It is an opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors in the industry.  Classes range from teaching techniques, different dance rhythms,  and an opportunity to network with other instructors.  We attended the one this year and came home learning so much.

Hopefully we covered all questions?  If not, feel free to send us an email at theemzcrew@gmail.com.

Something a lot of class members may not know about these instructors -- they are all ZIN members - all licensed - all 14.  They each pay a monthly membership fee of $30 a month.  A few instructors teach elsewhere besides EMZ, however a few do not.  What's free for some, is not free for all.  Don't get me wrong and think that we are making a fuss over offering a free class - we aren't.  If it wasn't something we enjoyed doing for people we enjoy being around, classes would no longer exist.  We know we are fortunate to have the love & support that we do from our class.  They are definitely an inspiration to all of us instructors.  They make it worth it each morning with their smiling faces & positive energy.

We hope to see you all at our event!  And if not, hopefully at one of our morning classes.

Details below for Main Event.  Link to the right if you are interested in purchasing a ticket online.

Much love, alofa's, ofa's & amor!

Friday, September 20th

We did this last year and we've decided to do it again.

Next Friday, September 20th come dressed in your favorite team gear.

We know September 21st is the big rivalry game between the University of Utah Utes and the BYU Cougars.  We also know that some of you can care less about either team.  Hahaha!  So we are making it as generic as possible -- come in whatever team gear you wish.  Just make sure it's something you can work out in and won't injure others.  Lol.

Did you know it's Hunger Action Month?
Please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Utah Food Bank.

We are going to do a friendly competition and see which "team" brings in the most.  If you have any questions, please see any one of us instructors or email theemzcrew@gmail.com.

Here's a picture from last year.

A video from last year.

Also stay tuned, we have a few things coming up in the next couple weeks.

MANA 5K

This past Saturday (August 31st), a few of our class members participated in the 1st Annual MANA 5K.  We had a nice size group represent EMZ at this event.  A few of our class members placed in the top 5 finishers.  Thank you Queen's Center & all who were involved in putting this wonderful event together.

Satomi cutting up her shirt.

 MarySue, Jake & Satomi

 Miguel, Heidi, MarySue, Sarahi, Satomi & Jeff

 Sarahi, Cecilia, Jez & her husband

Cecilia (her first 5K)

Deseret News/KSL article about the MANA 5K.

Sad news :(

Sad to share the following news.  Please note that this event has been cancelled.  Please see the message from Doug & Lindsey.

Upcoming Schedule

September 2 (Monday - Labor Day) - YES we are having class!!!  Sadly, all of us instructors have no where fun to go or travel to this Labor Day weekend.  Plan on the whole team Monday morning!!!  And who knows we might just throw in a few extra songs...especially when we have a plate sale going on AFTER class, outside.  See flyer below for details:

September 3 (Tuesday) - Special Guest!!!  We'll announce soon!

September 6 (Friday) - This is an event put on by our good friends Doug & Lindsey!!!

THE PURPLE DRESS PARTY™ -

The Pool Deck at the iconic City Creek Center is this year's fabulous venue, with fantastic views of Downtown Salt Lake City and home of our proud partner THE GYM at City Creek.

Join Douglas Gόmez and Lindsey Taylor for a night of celebration and red carpet photography, along with our donors, sponsors, and volunteers; and — most importantly — celebrate the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort to achieve health and wellness. The Purple Dress Party™ is a cosmopolitan night for you to show off your fitness achievements by dressing up and feeling beautiful. – Raise your glass! BECAUSE YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!

PS - All 16+ are welcome. Cocktail attire required, but you better be wearing Purple and stilettos to celebrate and bring your own date.

Time:

7:00pm

Tickets available at www.dancewithlindsey.com. Requested minimum donation $20 online. Cash ONLY at the door. $15 with secret code online.

Location:

THE GYM at City Creek Center’s Pool Deck.

Above Brio Tuscan Grill.

80 S. Regent Street

Salt Lake City, UT 84111

September 7 (Saturday) -  The ZUMBATHON® - 

Join Lindsey Taylor at a Special Zumbathon® Event. Take Part in the American Cancer Society Zumbathon® Charity Event 2013 – MAKE IT PERSONAL!

Last year, over 300 Zumba® fans joined Lindsey Taylor as part of the nationwide campaign that raised Cancer awareness. This year, we want to see at least 400 of you!

For 90 minutes, Lindsey Taylor will have you dancing, singing, sweating and feeling fabulous – in body and soul – knowing that portion of your ticket price will help beat Cancer in our community.

Time:

10:30am

Doors open: 9:30am 

Tickets:

***General Access: $15 with secret code, $20 in advance ONLINE, and $30 at the door. Available at www.dancewithlindsey.com

- One General Access to Utah's greatest Zumba Fitness Party.

***Premium Class - VIP: $50

- One reserved premium spot at the Zumba Fitness Concert

- One Admission to THE PURPLE DRESS PARTY™ on September 6th

- Exclusive access to the FUEGO lounge for registration

- Complimentary Premium Hydration station

- Swag bag

- Meet and greet reception

- Professional Photo with Lindsey Taylor. By Alex Valente Photography

- Complimentary pass to the exclusive The GYM at City Creek

Location:

THE GYM at City Creek Center.

FUEGO’s Stage, above the CheeseCake Factory.

51 South Main Street

Salt Lake City , UT 84111

EMZ Crew Master Class

Wow!  It's been some time since our last post.  Since the 4th of July, we've celebrated our 3rd year anniversary.  Nothing big, just a potluck during our Friday class.  We had a great turnout - roughly around 200 people showed up that morning.  We are always grateful for the love & support always shown.  Thank you!

Next on the agenda - we are doing a Master Class November 1st.  Save the date!!!  Tickets will officially go on sale Monday, August 26th AFTER CLASS.

VIP tickets - $40 (total of 35 spots)

General Admission - $20 (at the door $25 if it's not sold out)

We have some great things planned for our Master Class.  Do not miss out!!!

Here's the video from last year's Master Class

July 4th Video & what's up ahead for EMZ

Thank you to all who stop by our blog and check it on a daily basis.  Our apologies for not updating more often.  Let's see...where did we last leave off?  July 4th.  Unlike last year, we cancelled our 4th of July class due to the South Salt Lake parade we participated in.

Due to our BBQ the month before and plans for a master class in August, we felt like we needed to have someone else plan and organize the parade we were participating in.  Lucky for us we had a few volunteer.  The lucky job went to Jez Garcia.  She and her family organized everything from the truck pulling a boat with our sound system in it to providing breakfast for everyone who participated.  As with any EMZ event, it's not always a simple task.  Thank you Jez and everyone involved who helped make it a fun and successful event.

If you weren't able to attend, here's the video from that day.

It was fun to see people get up out of their seats and dance along as we passed.  At the end of the parade, we decided to do a little mini class.  Yup, that's how diehard this group is.  This is definitely another EMZ event to remember.  

Please note the following:

July 24th - NO CLASS

A few of us instructors are participating in the 5K that morning.  If you would like to join, sign up HERE.  If you sign up, please let us know on our Facebook page. 

August Master Class - due to conflict with building scheduling, we are postponing our Master Class.  Details to come in the near future.

Speaking of August...August 2nd during our Friday morning class, we are going to celebrate EMZ's 3rd birthday...of course in the usual EMZ style - dress up party & potluck.  Details to come...soon!!!  So stay posted. 

July 4th, 2013

Flashback from last year:

July 4th, 2012

As you can see in the video above, we had a class on the 4th of July.  

This year, NO CLASS.  

Instead, this is what we'll be doing:

Yup, we will be participating in South Salt Lake's 4th of July Parade.  It is their 75th anniversary and parade will feature a "Diamond Anniversary" theme.

All are welcome to join us!

See flier above for details on what to wear.

For parade route, go HERE.

Message from Jez (class member in charge of coordinating everything):

There's only 6 days left to get your outfit together. Don't forget to make it shiny! 

Please be mindful that this is a family event and the meaning behind the the Fourth of July. No tasteless clothing or anything that may be perceived offensive (ei..use .U.S. flag as clothing etc).

If any questions, email us at theemzcrew@gmail.com or see Jez Garcia for more info.

EMZ BBQ

Our EMZ BBQ...wow is an understatement.  We are so grateful for the donation & support we received.  Beyond anything we imagined!

To the trio (Mama Ruby, Aunty Moni & Nane) who handled the food portion of it - thank you so much.  It was a relief for us instructors to worry about the Zumba class portion of the BBQ only. We are indeed grateful for you and your helpers (so many who to name, but you know who you are).

To Uncle Phil who lent us his trailer for a stage.  Thank you, thank you!  As if the trailer wasn't enough, he built us some steps to make it easier for us to climb on and off the trailer. He basically set it up for us.  Yeah, we're a bit spoiled.

To Maia, thank you for letting us use your sound system.  The system rocked!!!  To Omar and the other gentleman who made sure we were all hooked and connected, your help is much appreciated.  Without a sound system, we wouldn't have a class at all.

To Natural Roots,  thank you for taking time to come out and play a few songs.  We realize you have a lot of paid gigs, so we appreciate your willingness to give back to the community.  We enjoyed the music & the skankin'.

To the wonderful group of supporters we have, nothing but heartfelt thanks for your never ending love and support.  We truly have the best class ever!

There were so many videos and pictures from the event and unfortunately, I don't have the patience to load every one on to this blog.  However, thank you Hector Dehesa and crew for capturing still shots of our BBQ and putting it together into a video - let's say they took hundreds of pictures.

Here's the videos he put together:

(25 minute)

(10 minute)

(10 minute)

Be sure to stop by his YouTube channel and check out other videos he's done for our EMZ Crew.

Enjoy!

Love,

Your EMZ Instructors

EMZ BBQ

EMZ BBQ

June 19th, 2013

Jordan Park SW Pavilion

1060 S. 900 W.

SLC

Begins at 6 pm with a one hour outdoor Zumba class on the tennis court.

And in our usual EMZ style, come dressed in your Western attire.

It is a potluck BBQ.  If you attend our classes, there is a sign up sheet.  See Mama Ruby, Aunty Moni or Nane if you would like to sign up.  If you have never attended a class but would like to join us at our BBQ, bring something to share (such as chips, salad, or dessert).

All are welcome, so bring the whole family.

After the Zumba class, we will have Reggae band Natural Roots performing.  This is definitely a treat for us to have them as guests due to their busy schedule.  Thank you to the Tua'tonga boys for making this happen!!!

Please note the schedule for class next week.

We will have EMZ on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (two times...morning and then evening class at BBQ) and Friday.

NO CLASS on Thursday, June 20th.

Up close and personal 2...

It's high school graduation time here in Utah.  Our "baby" of the group graduated yesterday from Taylorsville High School.  We are so proud of her!!!  Congratulations Souna!!!

Here's a few pictures from her graduation.

Up close and personal...

Sharing a few up close and personal moments...

Last weekend, one of our instructors lost her father...

Here we are paying "Suka" a visit at her home.

Here we are posing for a group picture.  Missing:  Sela, Silia & Billie.

After the services.

The beautiful flower arrangement sent on our behalf courtesy of Twig & Spencer Larkin - Larkin Mortuary.

Much love to the Mohi family!

Upcoming Events

May 27th - Monday:  

NO CLASS!  

Sleep in, take a break...

...OR you can visit

ZAS (Zumba All-Stars).  Zumba class begins at 5:30 am.  One hour.  FREE.

Where?

5000 Pavant St. (3725 S.)

WVC, UT

...OR for a cross-fit / bootcamp style workout

Fit Mamas WVC (all - not just women - are welcome to this special Memorial Day edition)

*visit their blog - HERE for more info*

Class begins at 8 am.  It's FREE.  Bring water & a good attitude and be ready to do some work.

Where?

Hunter Park

5710 W. 3500 S.

WVC

We did it last year...and we are doing it again...

June 19th - Wednesday:

EMZ 2nd Annual BBQ

6:00 pm

Jordan Park SW Pavilion

1060 S. 900 W.

SLC

More details to come.  Save the date.

June 20th - Thursday: 

NO CLASS.

Friday, May 10th

Just a heads up, Liu will be teaching the entire hour.

 

There's talk about dressing up.  No theme yet.  Check our Facebook page to see what theme is decided. 

 

Thank you!

Tuesday Tip of the Day

Again...better late than never right? 

Tuesday's tip:

Why we incorporate stretching at the end of our workout.
Stretching after working out is a highly recommended practice. The benefits of stretching before a workout are often discussed, emphasizing its role in injury prevention. When you stretch after a workout, you benefit from both physiological and psychological effects.

Physical Benefits of Stretching after Working Out

When you work out, lactic acid builds up in your muscles. This often leads to muscle soreness and fatigue. Stretching after a workout helps to reduce muscle fatigue. When you stretch after a workout, your muscles are warm and you benefit from increased blood circulation.
Stretching will help your muscles to recover faster from a tough workout. Muscle soreness is one of the reasons that many people skip exercising. When you stretch, the likelihood is much higher that you will proceed with your next workout and prevent future injury.

Psychological Benefits of Stretching after Working Out

When you stretch after working out, your mind has a chance to tune into how your body is feeling. You breathe through a stretch and pay attention to any aches and pains in your body. The mind-body connection is important for relaxation and stress relief. Stretching is known to calm the nerves and relax the mind.
Stretching in the cool down portion of your workout is a very healthy practice for both the body and the mind.

Article courtesy of www.fitday.com

Cindo de Mayo Party

 

Cinco de Mayo Party

 

May 3rd, 2013

 

5:30 am

 

at our usual spot

 

Stake Center off of 900 W & approx 1100 S

SLC

 

Come dressed in your festive Latin attire (make sure it's something you can work out in) or wear the colors red, white & green.

Also bring a Mexican/Spanish treat/dish to share with everyone!

 

A Zumba Party you don't want to miss out on!

 

Tuesday Tip of the Day

 

It's that simple!

Tuesday Tip of the Day

It's been a good while since we've shared a tip.  The tip for today is very simple. 

 

Pay it forward.

 

Give back.

 

Many ask why we teach for FREE, well there you go.  We enjoy what we do and it's our opportunity to give back to the community.

 

With that being said, there is an event this weekend that Liu Vakapuna, a couple other EMZ instructors and myself are helping out with.  It's a fundraiser to help 14 year old Naomi Soifua get to the qualifying golf rounds of the U.S. Women's Open.  Come out and join us for 2 hours of Zumba, Hot Hula & Hot Fusion.  If you can't make it but would like to donate, click on this LINK to do so.

 

Hope to see you there!!!

 

 

Challenge Results

Wow, this morning was an amazing sight!!!  Thank you to all who came out!!!  

Many thanks to Mafi Misinale (Mama Ruby), Heamoni Filimoe'atu (Aunty Moni), Ongo Lapuaho and all who helped out in the kitchen with today's breakfast.

Also many thanks to our building keepers Caralee Hand & Melini Tukuafu for getting there early to let everyone in...every day Monday to Friday.

Results are in for our Attendance Challenge as well as our Weight Loss Challenge.

Side note:  entry for both challenges - FREE.

Each participant that turned in their Attendance Card received the following:

Water bottle, cd with "EMZ" song & two "I love EMZ" wristbands.

Participants:  Daniela Alva, Maria Aguayo-Lopez, Mele Halaeua, Marisela Rodriguez, Alma Ruza, Cecy Andrade & Caralee Hand.

We had an 8-way tie for 100% attendance.  They received the following:

A towel, two "I love EMZ" wristbands, one FREE class to our Studio Azul class, cd with "EMZ" song, water bottle, $5 gift certificate towards EMZ Wear, Fiber One bar & an "emz crew" t-shirt.

Winners:  Maria Moreno, Martha Loera, Daniel Flores, Paula Avelar, Miguel Gonzalez, Jeff Curry, MarySue Floisand & Luseane Taufui.

Due to the tie, we thought it would only be fair to have a raffle for a grand prize (a Zumba bag & $25 gift certificate for www.zumba.com).

For our Weight Loss Challenge, we had two groups (male & female).  Two winners from each.  One winner for the highest percentage loss & another for highest weight loss = a possibility of 4 winners.

For the men's, only one came back to weigh in.  Congratulations to Daniel Flores!!!

For the women's, we had several come back and weigh in.  It was pretty close.  Congratulations to Heidi Haas!!!

*If any of you want the stats from the weight loss challenge, please email us at theemzcrew@gmail.com.*

Both winners received everything the 100% attendee's received and instead of a $5 gift certificate, they received a $25 gift certificate & a 4 FREE pass to Studio Azul's night class instead of the single pass.....AND they received this:

Without the instructor's knowledge, there was a prize for the instructor with the most days attending.

The winner:  Dana Rossi

She received a gift card to Target.

Again, many thanks to all who help make EMZ possible & keep it going.

Until next week...ciao!!! 

Have a good weekend!