Today we’d like to introduce you to Kerry Oldham.
Kerry, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My love of fitness started as early as middle & high school but it was not until after graduating high school that I stepped into Group Fitness.
I attended my local gym in Arkansas daily and did group fitness classes. Soon, I was asked to assist in leading classes and before I knew it, I became a certified Aerobics Instructor. My husband’s job took us to San Antonio and later to North Dallas. It is here where I walked into a Zumba class about 2007-08 to see what it was all about. I loved it the minute the music started. It was a dance fitness class with Latin Inspired songs and dances. The music is electric and motivating, not like anything I had ever heard or danced to for that matter. I became a licensed Zumba instructor in 2009 and have been teaching since.
There are so many fun and amazing avenues that Zumba Fitness can take an instructor or participant. I’ve had the great opportunity along with many local instructors to help families in need, whether it’s an illness, hurricane efforts, medical bills. I’ve had the privilege of teaching to middle eastern refugees and youth groups, but my favorite is teaching Zumba Kids at my son’s elementary school. I lead a group of kids in dances for each nine weeks assembly and end of the year celebration. The kids are so genuine and joyful.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
For the most part, it has been quite smooth. I can only speak from my experiences so I would say to take care of your body. Don’t try to teach multiple times a day at every gym/studio you can. I have suffered from some minor injuries over the years like Plantar Fasciitis, some hip and back pain. Fortunately, our kid’s activity schedules have helped me to know when to let go of a hectic teaching schedule which I feel has saved my body and continued to have longevity in the Fitness Industry.
I encourage those just stepping into the industry to make sure they get the suggested amount of sleep, rest on those rest days, have a sensible healthy diet.
We’d love to hear more about Zumba Fitness.
I absolutely love what I do, teaching Zumba Fitness and motivating others to enjoy exercising. I am licensed in Zumba, Zumba Kids, Zumba Toning, Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, Zumba Sentao, Pro Skills and Strong by Zumba.
I specialize in Zumba and Strong by Zumba. Strong by Zumba is the most recently added format. It is a HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) class, no dancing in this class but helps the participants find their inner warrior.
Among my students and fellow instructors, I am known for having amazing energy, personality, and sharp skillful cues. I also feel those skills set me apart from others along with my passion for helping others find their way through health journey.
I am so proud of the Zumba Community in our area, always ready to help each other and those in our communities.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
First, to always have fun and passion for your craft. Secondly, to take care of your body. It’s great to have a full class schedule but it can take a toll on the body very quickly. My advice is to have a rest day in the middle of your week and actually rest. Get enough sleep and eat a sensible healthy diet.
Meet your fellow instructors and network. It makes for a great community bond.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kerryo.zumba.com
- Instagram: @livelifedancing22
- Facebook: Kerry Oldham Zumba
Image Credit:
Roy Brookshire Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
