Have you ever taken a Zumba class at the Rec Center? If so, chances are, you had Bridget Stafford as your instructor at some point. Bridget brings energy and charisma to each class that she teaches and inspires others with her positive attitude. Bridget is a student instructor, finishing her senior year at Miami with a double major in Mathematics and Integrated Mathematics Education and a minor in Spanish. After teaching at the REC Center since her freshman year (Zumba and BODYCOMBAT), Bridget says, “The REC Center was the first official gym where I began teaching, and it gave me the confidence to expand my horizons…being a fitness instructor has strengthened my own commitment to health and wellness. It has boosted my confidence, kept me consistent in my workouts, and encouraged me to live a lifestyle that makes me feel empowered, strong, and energized for the long term.”
How did Bridget get into the wonderful world of teaching group fitness classes? After being active in sports during her high school years, Bridget was looking for a new physical outlet to continue pursuing her passion for fitness and stepped into a Zumba class at her local gym in Columbus, OH. She was immediately welcomed and felt right at home, the instructors there referred to themselves as her “Zumba Mommies,” and encouraged Bridget to get her Zumba certification. After a year of teaching Zumba, Bridget was ready to expand her horizons again and pursued a certification in Les Mills BODYCOMBAT– a high-energy, non-contact workout that blends boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, and capoeira. Both styles of classes allowed Bridget to combine her, “love of fitness with the thrill of coaching others through challenging, dynamic classes.”
If you have ever been to one of Bridget’s classes, you can tell that she is someone who loves what she does. “One of the things I love most about teaching is the connections I’ve been able to build on campus. Since my very first class freshman year, I’ve had participants who have continued showing up almost all four years, and it’s been incredible to watch their confidence grow. My goal is always to help participants find that one Zumba song they love so much that they’re excited to come up front and lead it with me–just like my own Zumba mentors once encouraged me to do. Beyond that, I simply love the joy of taking a dance break with others on campus. It’s such a fun and energizing way to bring people together.”
During her four years teaching at the REC Center, Bridget has had the opportunity to lead private classes for clubs and organizations. One of Bridget’s favorite experiences has been leading the M.O.V.E. Bootcamps hosted by President Gregory Crawford and Dr. Renate Crawford in the backyard of their house. “These events are such a unique experience, bringing students and community members together to kick off a Saturday morning with a workout.” The first bootcamp of this year drew more than 500 participants, the largest turnout they’ve ever had. Bridget was honored to lead the workout and even had her mom as a surprise guest who helped jump in and lead the crowd. “Leading a workout for 500 people was such an unforgettable experience and truly one of the most rewarding moments of my journey as an instructor.”
When asked, what health advice do you live by? Bridget answered, “I live by the idea that health is all about balance and consistency. Fitness should never feel like a punishment–it should be something you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, lifting, or simply getting outside for a walk, the best workout is the one you’ll look forward to.” If you are on the search for a workout that you truly enjoy, I encourage you to stop by the REC Center for a Zumba class with Bridget. Your body, mind and spirit will thank you!
