Yesterday was intense, but so inspiring. I woke up at 5:30 to drive 2 hours to take the American Aerobics and Fitness Association national exam to certify me as a group fitness instructor. When I originally signed up for the class, I had these idealistic visions of how easy it would probably be...

When the study materials arrived 6 months ago, I remember looking at the practice test, the thick text book and study guide and thinking to myself, "this is a way bigger project than I thought it would be!" I signed up to take the exam in May, but felt completely unprepared... so I put it off... until yesterday.

The class was all day and reviewed material from the study guide for the written test, as well as prepared us for the practical exam. It was so humbling to feel like a total beginner and all the nervousness that goes with being "tested".

I learned SO much! I am totally inspired! So many ideas about how to take this material and integrate it into the classes and HoopGirl Workout to create a more dynamic, safer and more professional environment. EVERYONE who teaches hoopdance should take this class! There is just so much basic material about the science of exercise. The bottom line is that dance is a form of exercise. Hiding behind the idea of being an "artist" while facilitating others in class as an excuse to avoid learning about the body and being a responsible professional teacher. As teachers, we must always be students ourselves, enriching our knowledge base and learning at every opportunity.

For me, hoopdance is all about being in and loving the body... that means knowing all about the heart beating, the muscles working, the breath working, how it responds to sounds and cues, how it communicates through the body's messages....and so much more! if you teach hoopdance, I really encourage you check out www.afaa.com and see if this class feels like a match for you. It will only give you more juiciness to share with others...

Thanks to the beautiful Universe for sending a steady stream of important people, experiences and learning my way to help me evolve to the next level!