Daily Archives: May 10, 2012

Zumba Fitness News: Like Mother, Like Daughter

Like Mother, Like Daughter: Hilary and Alena Groopman

By Z-LIFE in Community, Fitness, Interviews, Learn, Look with 4 comments  Tags: , 
01
MAY
2012

Alena Groopman, 28 & Hilary Groopman, 57

 

Living on opposite coasts — about 3,000 miles apart — doesn’t stop these two from sharing music and choreography ideas on an almost hourly basis. And whenever they can, the two team up to teach master classes and Zumbathon events all over the country  — even during a family trip to Thailand. “Zumba events, classes and ZIN Jam sessions are opportunities for my mom and I to spend some incredible quality time together,” says Alena, a Zumba Jammer. “She will tell me the truth about my routines and cueing and is one of the main reasons I have grown into a successful Zumba Instructor.”

 

Mom Hilary, a passionate Zumba Fitness fan, “literally dragged” Alena to a Zumba Basic 1 Instructor Training in 2008. But Alena’s initial reluctance disappeared at the first few notes of those international rhythms. “The music started and I was hooked,” she recalls. “Aren’t moms always right?” Says Hilary: “She was a natural from the first beat!”

 

Over the past few Zumba-packed years, their mutual respect and admiration has grown. “She has made me so proud to call her my Mom,” says Alena. “Her students truly love her style, grace, presence and personality. She makes them successful in their personal and fitness journeys. I respect her teaching style, advice and musicality. She is truly an inspiration!” Adds Hilary: “Alena is my joy! She lights up the room when she is there and I know her students feel it, too! I am totally in awe of her creativity, her energy and her moves!” Now Alena could be the one doing the dragging. “I think that my three brothers, dad and boyfriend secretly want to give Zumba Fitness a try,” she says. “With Beto gracing the cover of Men’s Fitness, I think we may have a shot!”