Instructor Highlight: Jane Zien

Elite Instructor Highlight - Jane Zien

Here’s another Elite instructor who you should definitely get to know (and try her classes!) Meet Jane Zien from Elite Sports Club – River Glen. Although she also teaches at Elite Sports Club – Mequon too!

What classes do you currently teach?

I teach Zumba, Zumba Step and Step (elsewhere)

How long have you been teaching group exercise?

…..almost 30 years (gulp!)

What made you want to start teaching group exercise?

Actually, I was recruited by the YMCA because I was always in their classes, but really, I felt I had the natural leadership ability and wanted to be able to share my knowledge and abilities to my participants through Group Fitness.

What is your favorite part about teaching your class(es)?

Generally, the positive impact it has on the participants. More specifically, I feel I have the responsibility of being a good role model and a positive influence on their lifestyle, and a catalyst to help them achieve their personal goals be it through fitness, or even just to help them feel more confident, or to lose weight, etc.

What’s your favorite song or style of music to teach to?

Well I would be lying if I said anything other than Latin influenced music! I love dance music, but certainly love current popular club music as well.

What is your favorite exercise to do in your class?

The most popular is Zumba Salsas and Merengue’s. Those are the easiest as well.

How do you stay active outside of your own classes?

Practice, Practice, Practice! And of course lots of running to prepare me for the 3-4 half marathons I run a year.

What else do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I do actually like sitting still and reading books for my Book Club. Keeps me grounded.

What advice do you give people who are coming into your classes for the first time?

HAVE FUN! Don’t think you can do it all, and when you can’t just move yourself in your comfort zone. Make it fun so you come back.

What personal advice do you give someone who is looking to get to a healthier point in their life?

Don’t overwhelm yourself with planning to get from point A to point B in a short amount of time. Start with reasonable and attainable goals. Take it one day at a time and stay determined and focused. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small you may think they are. They are big to you. Margaret Zitzer started in my class with no fitness background and lost 70 pounds. Those success stories abound!


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