Zoe Fitness/ Zumba With Ivy, Southfield

After experiencing personal tragedy, Ivy Mitchell turned to Zumba Fitness and discovered more than a standard workout program. She was not only losing weight and getting in shape, but also found herself smiling more and feeling happier. She attributes this emotional windfall to Zumba's ever-changing routines, fun environment, and community atmosphere. After experiencing this personal change, Ivy decided to share her passion with others by becoming an instructor, and she now leads classes at two Detroit-area Zoe Fitness locations.

Ivy's Zumba sessions fuse the funky beats of international rhythms with easy-to-pick-up moves. This process can help students lose pounds and wiggle hips without wearing a salt-shaker costume and waiting to be shook by the giant living next door.