Why We’re Adding Virtual-Only Classes to Our Schedule

Why We’re Adding Virtual-Only Classes to Our Schedule At Island Beats, we empower women through movement, connection, and a renewed outlook on life. We know how transformative it is to have a space where you can dance, sweat, and rediscover your joy and confidence. We’re taking things even further by adding virtual-only classes to our lineup. For us, virtual classes are more than an option—they’re our story. Virtual classes are at the heart of Island Beats. When the pandemic flipped the world upside down, we leaned into the power of connection through movement. We streamed our first class from my living room to bring joy during those tough times. From that experience, Island Beats was born. Reintroducing virtual-only classes feels like a return to our roots, and we are thrilled to share this new chapter with you. To give you a deeper look into why we’re shifting, here are a few key reasons why virtual classes are such an important part of our journey—and how they continue to bring value to our amazing Island Beats community: MEETING YOU WHERE YOU ARE.  Life can be unpredictable. Finding time to show up for yourself can feel like juggling busy work schedules, family responsibilities, and personal commitments. That’s why we’re interested in meeting you wherever you are—literally. Whether traveling or prefer the comfort of your own space, our virtual classes let you stay consistent with your wellness goals. ACCESS FOR EVERYONE. Not everyone can make it to our Cleveland studio, and we get it—life can get busy with kids, work, or unexpected plans. Virtual classes are so important. They make it easy for you to stay consistent with your goals on your terms without added stress. And you’ll have the same energy, love, and support that make Island Beats special. HELP US CREATE THE PERFECT VIRTUAL SCHEDULE. As we roll out this exciting update, we need your help. We want to make sure our virtual-only schedule works for you. To that end, we’ve created a quick survey to gather your input on class times, formats, and anything else you’d like to see. Your feedback is crucial, and we cannot wait to hear your ideas. Your voice will shape how we move forward—literally! Virtual is where Island Beats started, and it’s interesting to see it grow. Thank you for being part of this journey. Stay tuned for updates as we finalize our virtual schedule in February, and keep showing up for yourself—whether in person or on the screen. TAKE THE SURVEY HERE

How to Rock Your Virtual Island Beats® Class

How to Rock Your Virtual Island Beats® Class Joining an Island Beats® class virtually is a fantastic way to stay active, have fun, and connect with others from the comfort of your own space. To help you get the most out of your experience, here are some practical tips for success: BEFORE THE CLASS 1. Test Your Technology Ensure your device (computer, tablet, or phone) is fully charged and connected to a stable internet connection. Check your speakers or headphones to ensure you can hear the music and instructions. To avoid last-minute stress, familiarize yourself with Zoom and verify the meeting link beforehand. Disconnect devices you are not using from your wifi so you have a strong connection. 2. Create a Comfortable Space Clear enough room to move freely without bumping into furniture or walls. Use a non-slip surface to ensure safety while dancing. Be careful moving on carpet! Adjust your lighting to see your movements and follow the instructor easily. 3. Dress for Movement Wear breathable, comfortable workout clothes and supportive athletic shoes. Have a towel nearby for sweat and a water bottle to stay hydrated. 4. Log In Early Join the session 5–10 minutes before the start time to troubleshoot any technical issues and get comfortable. DURING THE CLASS 1. Adjust Your Camera Position your camera so the instructor can see you (if you’re comfortable with this) and provide feedback or encouragement. Make sure you’re visible from head to toe, if possible. 2. Set Audio Preferences Keep yourself muted to reduce background noise unless the instructor invites everyone to unmute. Ensure your volume is comfortable so you can hear the music and cues. 3. Listen to Your Body Modify movements to match your fitness level or if something feels uncomfortable. Focus on having fun and moving to the beat rather than perfecting every step. 4. Engage with the Community Smile, cheer, or use the chat feature to connect with fellow participants (if available). Sharing your energy virtually helps build that amazing Zumba vibe! AFTER CLASS 1. Cool Down & Stretch Follow the instructor’s cool-down routine to help your body recover and reduce muscle soreness. 2. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids. 3. Share Feedback Let us know how the class went and share suggestions for improving the virtual experience. 4. Celebrate Your Effort You showed up, moved, and had fun—that’s worth celebrating! Acknowledge your achievement and get ready for the next class. Virtual Island Beats® classes are an exciting way to stay fit and connected, no matter where you are. By preparing ahead of time and embracing the experience, you’ll enjoy the music and moves and feel energized and empowered. So, turn up the volume, find your groove, and let’s dance! Exciting News: Virtual-Only Class Schedule Launching in February! We’re thrilled to announce that starting in February, we’ll launch a dedicated virtual-only class schedule! This means more opportunities to dance, connect, and stay active anywhere worldwide. Whether you’re a Zumba regular or trying it out for the first time, these virtual classes are designed to fit into your lifestyle and bring the energy of an in-person class to your home. Stay tuned for more details and a full schedule coming soon. Let’s keep moving together—virtually!

New Year, New You? Why Every Day Is a Chance to Reset

New Year, New You? Why Every Day Is a Chance to Reset As the new year approaches, we feel inspired to start fresh. However, the truth is that you don’t have to wait for January 1st to embrace new beginnings. Milestones such as your birthday, the change of a season, or even a random Monday can provide the perfect opportunity to hit the reset button. The Fresh Start Effect is a psychological phenomenon that makes these moments feel like a mental “clean slate.” Your Reset Button Like the beginning of a new year, you can apply the Fresh Start Effect whenever you feel ready to realign your wellness journey. These moments are your chance to pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What do I want my life to feel like? What small steps can I take toward feeling stronger, calmer, or more energized? How can I make this commitment sustainable and joyful? 3 Steps to Use the Fresh Start Effect for Wellness Reflect on the Past: Take a moment to evaluate what’s working and what isn’t. This is not about judgment but an exercise in self-awareness. Consider asking yourself, “What habits have supported my health and happiness? What can I let go of?” Start Small and Stay Consistent: Instead of overwhelming yourself with lofty goals, focus on one or two small actions you can take daily. Consistency is key to building lasting habits, Whether drinking more water, dancing for ten minutes, or going to bed earlier. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Understand that your wellness journey isn’t a straight line; it’s a winding growth path. Acknowledge every small victory, whether you try a new workout, choose nourishing foods, or allow yourself time to rest.   New Year Reset or Any Day Reset? Your reset isn’t limited to the calendar; it can happen anytime you prioritize your well-being. Let today — right now — be the moment you decide to refresh, reset, and realign with the person you’re becoming.

When You Can’t Find Your Motivation

When You Can’t Find Your Motivation We’ve all been there—you’re hyped about those workouts one minute, and then bam, life happens, and that motivation ghosts you! Whether you’re too busy, tired, or need a fresh vibe, here’s how to get back on track with tips to help you fall in love with fitness again—Island Beats-style, baby! 1. Find the Fun Again, Boo! Let’s be real: fitness ain’t just about sweating like a beast; it’s about feeling good and having fun! Remember that vibe that got you hooked? That high-energy, dance-all-night kinda feel? That’s what Island Beats is all about. We bring the heat with salsa, soca, and bachata so you can let loose, feel the music, and let that joy flow. Girl, you’ll be vibin’ so hard you’ll forget you’re even workin’ out! Don’t even stress about “getting fit”—just come through, dance it out, and let the joy of it remind you why you started! 2. Start Small, Sis, and Build That Flow Listen, you don’t gotta dive into a full-on sweat session right away. Nah. Just ease back into it. Set aside 10, maybe 15 minutes to move around. Maybe it’s a little dance break in your living room or a quick walk outside. That little bit? It’s like a spark. Once you start, trust me, you’ll find the energy to keep going. At Island Beats, we see it all the time. Folks come in like, “I’m just gonna try a lil’ bit.” Then the music hits, and next thing you know, they’re out there sweatin’, smilin’, and killin’ it on the dance floor. Don’t overthink it. Start with a lil’ somethin’, and watch that energy grow. 3. Stay Connected to Your Crew Let’s be honest—doing it solo can get real hard, real quick. That’s why having a crew to keep you accountable is everything! It makes all the difference when you’ve got people who show up with you, cheer you on, and maybe even hit you with that “Where you at, girl?” when you start slippin’. Accountability isn’t just about showing up; it’s about knowing your people got you and you got them. A crew keeps you motivated, focused, and on that grind even when you don’t feel like it. And trust me, that vibe is contagious. When y’all are out there together, it’s like you’re feeding off each other’s energy, pushing each other to go harder, and having a blast while you’re at it. Find that accountability crew and let them hold you down. It’s way easier to stay motivated when you’ve got people in your corner! Ready to Get Your Groove Back? When it comes down to it, getting back to fitness is all about keeping it fun, goin’ easy on yourself, and staying connected. Island Beats is all that and more. So come through, shake it out, and get back to sweatin’, smilin’, and SHININ’ together. Check the schedule and join the SHINE fam today. We got a spot on the dance floor just waitin’ for you, sis!

5 Ways to Get Class-Ready at Island Beats

5 Ways to Get Class-Ready at Island Beats Whether you’re joining us for the first time or are a regular at Island Beats, being prepared can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy your class! Here’s a quick guide to ensure you walk in ready to feel the rhythm and maximize the energy. Register & Check-In: The first step is simple but essential: use the PushPress app to register for your class and check in when you arrive. The app makes it easy to see our class schedule, reserve your spot, and breeze through the check-in process once you arrive. It’s your go-to tool for managing your Island Beats experience, so make sure you’ve got it downloaded and ready. Dress for Comfort: Comfort is key when moving to island rhythms. Wear lightweight, breathable clothes that allow you to move freely without feeling restricted. A tank, leggings, or shorts will give you room to groove. Supportive sneakers are also essential—you want to feel grounded but light on your feet. Choose shoes that offer a good mix of cushioning and support so you can move easily without worrying about aches and pains later. Stay Hydrated: It’s amazing how much energy movement takes, and staying hydrated is crucial to keep your energy up throughout the class. Start drinking water about an hour before class to get a head start. Bring a water bottle to take sips between songs and keep that energy flowing. Hydration helps with endurance, so the more you drink, the more you’ll be able to move and groove without feeling exhausted. Pack the Essentials: Besides water, a small towel is helpful, especially if you plan to get sweaty (trust us, you will!). This isn’t one of those classes where you’re just standing around – Island Beats is all about movement and energy! A small towel will keep you feeling fresh and focused on your moves. And don’t forget that positive energy – it’s the best “essential” you can bring! Get Familiar with the Rhythms: We play a blend of island music, from merengue to reggae to salsa. Each rhythm brings a unique energy to our sessions. Want a little preview of what you’ll hear in class? Check out our Island Beats Party playlist. It’s a perfect way to get in the mood and ready to move!  With these tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy an incredible experience at Island Beats.

Don’t Sleep on Activate Your Mojo

Don’t Sleep on Activate Your Mojo You’ve been thinking about it, so let’s cut to the chase: you NEED to join us for Activate Your Mojo 2025. On November 18 and December 9 we’re spilling all the details about a memorable experience in 2025 that covers all this and more. Sisterhood: Imagine spending 5 days with a crew of strong, unapologetic women who get you. This is your tribe—a space where you’re celebrated, uplifted, and supported, no questions asked. Growth: It’s about digging deep and leveling up. Expect real talk, honest reflection, and breakthroughs that’ll have you stepping into your power like never before. Adventure: You deserve more than just another routine. We’re talking about pushing boundaries and saying yes to new experiences. It’s time to shake things up in your life. Movement: This isn’t about workouts—it’s about feeling your body. Dancing the night away, flowing with your own rhythm, and joining an Island Beats class. It’s pure joy in motion.   And all of this against the backdrop of the Dominican Republic.  Activate Your Mojo is so worth it, and we’ll talk about how you can make it happen by investing in yourself.  Ready to learn more? Sign up for a Zoom call to get all the deets and secure your spot for an unforgettable wellness adventure. November 19 – 8:00 pm December 9 – 8:00 pm   Don’t miss out—this is your time. Your mojo is calling.

Your Next Move

Your Next Move Let’s be real—life can get heavy sometimes. Between work, family, and trying to keep it all together, taking time for yourself can feel like an afterthought. But girl, trust me, self-care is a game-changer—and not in that cutesy Instagram way. We’re talking about staying on top of your mental, physical, and emotional wellness so you can thrive, not just survive. That’s where Island Beats comes in. We’re not just another fitness brand or another Zumba class. Nah, we’re your support system, your girl gang, and your motivation all rolled into one.  Picture this: a community of women who get it. We’re here for the real you, no filters necessary. Through movement, sisterhood, and self-development activities, we’re giving you a place to let your guard down and shine. Our mission? We embolden women navigating life changes to transform through movement, sisterhood, and self-discovery. And girl, we live that mission every single day. At Island Beats, we don’t just want you to move—we want you to transform. We’re here to fill you with joy, energy, and confidence because that’s what fuels the best version of you. Our SHINE membership is where this magic happens. Think of SHINE as your all-access pass to the best parts of Island Beats and so much more: Unlimited Movement Classes: From high-energy Zumba to Body Pump, our classes give you the freedom to move. Exclusive Member Portal: Dive into our wellness portal, packed with wellness resources tailored is your go-to spot for keeping the glow-up going. Glow Up Gatherings:  We through regular special events engage our members in activities that foster joy, energy, and confidence. Whether it’s a creative workshop, a self-care circle, a line dance party, or an inspirational speaker, each gathering leaves you feeling uplifted, recharged, and ready to shine. Private WhatsApp Group: Imagine a supportive chat with meaningful engagement. That’s our WhatsApp community where you’ll share tips, ask for advice, and celebrate wins with your sisters in real-time. Special Rewards: SHINE isn’t just a membership—it’s a celebration of your journey. Hit milestones? You’ll get rewards. Refer a friend? More perks. We’re all about making sure you feel valued every step of the way.  At Island Beats, every woman deserves to feel the joy of moving her body, the energy from being part of a community, and the confidence to take on whatever life throws her way. So if you’re ready to level up your self-care game and do it with a crew that’s all about lifting each other, consider joining SHINE. Let’s make this glow-up a group effort, sis. You in?

Embrace Imperfection

Embrace Imperfection At some point in my journey to become a licensed Zumba® instructor, I refused to post video clips of us messing up because I was obsessed with looking perfect. One day, I decided to stop that nonsense and stop practicing a routine like crazy before teaching it because I didn’t want to look stupid in the video later. I learned that it was okay for others to see my development process, with all its missteps, wrong turns, and awkward movements. What if you decided to step away from your obsession with being perfect? What if the fear of making a mistake or looking stupid no longer mattered? Girl, stop putting all that pressure on yourself and use these simple tips to embrace imperfection instead.   👍STOP JUDGING You can now stop analyzing other people and looking for what’s wrong with their faces, bodies, or life choices. Refocus your attitude so you stop seeing a difference as a flaw and instead see it as something that makes that person unique. If you let go of the urge to criticize others, you’ll notice a flow-on effect on how you see yourself. 👍ACCEPT YOUR IMPERFECTION Wanting to be the best version of yourself isn’t the same as being a perfectionist. A perfectionist is never happy with who they are, how they look, or how they’re doing, and being your best means working hard, trying, and not giving up. But it doesn’t mean you blame yourself when things aren’t perfect, and don’t take failure personally. 👍ENJOY THE PROCESS Perfectionists tend to trip over every little detail and allow imperfections to spoil their lives. When you embrace imperfection as a natural part of life, it frees you up to enjoy the ride. Obstacles become challenges that make life more enjoyable. Slow down and notice all the good things in your life. 👍ADOPT A NEW MINDSET Once you make peace with imperfection, you can be a lot more objective about life. Your perspectives change, and what once seemed overwhelmingly important suddenly doesn’t matter so much. All experiences become just another aspect of a life lived richly, that builds the person you are continually becoming. When you join us for class,  it’s a judgment-free zone that embraces imperfection. We won’t stare, snicker, or joke about you. We’ll hype you up because you deserve to hear how great it is to see you moving your body with joy, energy, and confidence.RIO

It’s Totally Doable: 4 Tips to Learn Zumba®

It’s Totally Doable: 4 Tips to Learn Zumba® We want you to have a good time with us, whether virtual or in-person. Having a good time might feel challenging because you’re trying hard to learn the moves. You might feel awkward and uncoordinated, and that’s no fun! And if you’re following us on Zoom, technology issues can sometimes make things a little tricky.  When taking an Island Beats® class, don’t let a good time escape you. Learning our style of Zumba® is totally doable when you consider these four tips.  1. Commit to joining us regularly for at least four classes monthly. One class isn’t enough time to learn our style or routines, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Latin rhythms. It took me months to get comfortable moving my hips to merengue and bachata. You’ll see those different rhythms have their own moves, which we often repeat. The more you come, the more your muscles will remember the moves because they have a memory.  On another note: We’re offering Basic Rhythms monthly starting on February 25 (register here) for those who want to learn basic moves to merengue, salsa, reggaeton, and bachata. 2. Keep moving as you watch. Learning by doing is one of the best ways to adapt to Island Beats. Don’t let your mind trick you into thinking you’re doing it wrong or look stupid. This is key! If you miss a step, it’s okay. Go with the flow, and don’t stop, wiggle! Sooner or later, you’ll get it because most steps in our routines are on repeat.  And for those joining us on Zoom, it’s best to watch on a bigger screen than a mobile device. If you have a laptop or tablet, try them instead. 3. Follow our non-verbal and verbal cues. As Zumba® instructors, we use non-verbal cues to help you learn the moves. These hand gestures tell you where to go, how many moves to make, or what body part to use. We sometimes mix it with quick verbal cues, but they can be hard to hear because we aren’t mic’d. My favorite verbal cue in Me Cansé when we make that hip turn to the side is “wiggle, wiggle, wiggle.” So when you see us doing something with our hands, or we yell out, “Wakanda forever,” it’s a cue and not part of the routine. 4. Listen to the music we play in class. When you become familiar with the various rhythms we use in our choreo routines, your experience will improve. It also helps to learn the distinction between the different rhythms. Merengue, salsa, and bachata are different, as are the moves, including how you move your hips in all three.  We are all about you experiencing joy, energy, and confidence. These tips should help you stop the “I can’t dance narrative.” It’s dulling your shine.❤️ Join us for class and an upcoming event to feel the Island Beats vibe for yourself.