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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Septuagenarian Zumba® Fitness Instructor Calera, AL (September 2010) When 3500 Zumba® Fitness instructors from all over the world gathered in Orlando, FL last month for their annual convention, Calera’s Suanne Ferguson was amongst them. “Out of 100,000 teachers, I may well be the oldest active Zumba® instructor in the world,” says Ferguson. At seventy-four, Suanne teaches eight Zumba® Fitness classes a week, four of them basic classes for all ages, and four Zumba® Gold classes especially for seniors. CEO and Co-founder of Zumba® Fitness L.L.C., Alberto Perlman was recently asked, “What is this whole thing called Zumba®?” He replied, “Well, Zumba® is a dance fitness program that has created a revolution in the fitness industry, broken all the rules of the fitness industry and ultimately came out with the largest fitness program in the world now. And it's really about having fun, it's really about letting go, and there are 7.5 million people that are taking Zumba® classes around the world now. Zumba® is in 105 countries.” In discussing her recent experience, Suanne said, “It was clear to see at the convention that Zumba® Fitness really is for everyone. People of all sizes, shapes and ages were dancing together in a huge fitness party. The atmosphere was electric!” During the convention, Ferguson was interviewed for the new infomercial for Zumba® Fitness stressing the wide appeal of this dance fitness format for all ages. “Though Zumba® is for everyone and I love teaching basic Zumba®, at 74 years of age, I have a special interest in enhancing the lives and health of seniors. My current Gold classes are open classes at two churches, a class at a senior center, and a class that serves one of the large retirement communities in this area. Students range in age from 55 to 94 years of age. Abilities are varied ranging from one student who is limited to his chair and has mobility in only one arm to those who can still move easily with confidence. Regardless of level of ability or age, they love Zumba® Gold, and so do I!” By the year 2030, more than 70 million Americans will be over the age of 65. The most rapid population increase over the next decade will be of those over 85 years of age. It is estimated that in 2011, 8 thousand people a day will turn 65 years of age. People used to grow old and die. Now, we grow old and live. Zumba® Gold improves the quality of life. The most important new discoveries about dance fitness confirm that it offers benefits across a wide range of health conditions, and that it has a positive impact on aging. In August of 2007, the ACSM and AHA issued physical activity level recommendations for older adults (age 65 and older). The guidelines recommend: Minimum of 5 days a week of cardiovascular conditioning at moderate intensity (5 to 6, on a 10-point scale), or a minimum of three days a week at vigorous intensity (7 to 8). What better way to get that cardio than Zumba® Gold? It is a proven fact that people who stay connected to others live longer and happier lives. Zumba® Gold provides a setting for dancing, laughing, and learning together… all great ways to stay connected. Find more information on fitness for all ages at www.suanneferguson.com. Contact: Suanne Ferguson Ferguson.suanne@yahoo.com Home phone: 205-668-0083 Cell phone: 205-602-1097 |
| UNSUNG HERO AWARDS From: Zumba Fitness Newsletter - Jul 05, 2011 Recognizing ZIN™ Members who are making a difference in our communities Each month, a group of ZIN Members nominated from around the world will receive recognition for actions that lift, inspire and bring increased success to their fellow ZIN Members. This month’s Unsung Heroes are … Suanne Ferguson — Going strong at any age is the message, and nobody delivers it quite like Suanne. This year, her outreach included effective television coverage on the NBC network that brought attention to the Zumba Gold® program and fellow ZIN Members in her region. Suanne, you are a true professional in every way. Kim Stover — Kim sets the bar very high by instructing 20 classes a week and an additional 10 classes with fellow ZIN Members. Meanwhile, she also keeps a watchful and loving eye on her family, including her 11-year-old son, Andrew. Andrew is challenged by mitochondrial disease, but that doesn’t keep him from enjoying Zumba® fitness music and occasionally busting a move. Kim, your values, heart and team- building skills inspire us all. Dennis Thomsen — Hats off to this successful community leader in Denmark for taking the time to learn about proper Zumba® brand usage, especially when approval is needed for events and flyers. Dennis has become a role model when it comes to proper use and protection of the brand and sharing the message that the ZIN™ License helps all ZIN Members succeed. Keep up the good work, Dennis! |