SNEWS Qs: Zumba founder Beto Perez ahead of his special IHRSA appearance

Zumba founder Beto Perez, who started the Latin dance-infused cardio workout, is gearing up for a Zumbathon fundraising event at IHRSA next week to raise money for Augie’s Quest, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, March 16. To pre-register (donation required) visit www.zumba.com.

What do you hope to accomplish at IHRSA?

I am really looking forward to the Zumbathon Charity event we are holding for United We Dance to Cure ALS. Last year we held the same event and the response was amazing. I hope to have people dancing, singing, sweating and feeling good (inside and out) knowing that 100 percent of their ticket price for this event will help beat ALS (also known as Lou Gherig’s disease).

What is your favorite part of IHRSA? 

One of my favorite things about IHRSA is showing the Fitness World what Zumba can offer, from our regular Zumba program and our specialties like Zumba Gold, Zumba Toning and Aqua Zumba. Additionally, I am really excited to lead our Zumbathon charity event this year to help beat ALS. IHRSA is the perfect channel to do this. Our Zumbathon is the leading IHRSA charity event and it’s sold out with nearly 1,000 people. I think it is important to unite and support this important cause.



What makes Zumba so popular? 

Zumba Fitness has proven that it bridges an important gap — a dance fitness workout that is appealing to both fitness advocates who lead active lifestyles and people that have never stepped foot into a gym but are attracted to a fun and energizing workout. Everyone has a basic human need to express themselves and Zumba fitness provides a judgment-free platform to do so. This need is universal and as long as that basic human need exists, Zumba fitness will continue to be a safe haven for people who want to have a blast and express themselves through movement. That’s why we have such a strong global community of supporters in over 125 countries. When a person takes a Zumba class they don’t just see a change in fitness level and body shape — their happiness, self-esteem and confidence are also affected in a really positive way. It becomes a part of people’s lives and something that they look forward to every week. This is why people keep coming back.

What is the motto you live by?

My motto is, “If you doubt, you die.” This has helped boost my confidence over the years and pushed me to strive for success.

–Ana Trujilloatrujillo@aimmedia.com