Instructor Award for Promoting Positive Change 2018

EMD UK has a mission to increase participation in group exercise by supporting teachers and organisations to deliver excellence. We recognise the hard work and passion that instructors across the nation put into getting communities moving and the Instructor Award for: Promoting Positive Change is a way to reward that dedication.

We had an overwhelming amount of entries and it was extremely hard for our judging panel to pick the top three. After much deliberation, the top three were finally decided.

Toni McGlone

Toni is based in Teesside and is regularly involved in many charity events. She has raised money for Remembering Rebecca and Vision Aid Overseas, and also leads the warm-ups for  all Teesside Hospice’s sponsored walks and runs.

For the 2nd birthday of her Clubbercise® classes, Toni organised a special class, with cakes, drinks and presents for all of her participants. For Toni, it’s important to give back to her classes and build a strong community. She makes each of her classes accessible for all; layering her teaching, giving options and ensuring participants can exercise at their own pace.  Toni also runs chair-based sessions for elderly/lower-mobility groups.

Toni sees her participants as part of her extended family. Her inbox is filled with emails about their lives, always wanting Toni to know their news.

Toni is a great instructor from the minute you make contact with her, she is positive, engaging and really encouraged me to try something new! From the warm welcome to a new clubber, the encouragement to start small and build u, she really does make you feel like you got this! The way she shouts “squat!” makes me laugh every time! Without Toni as my class instructor I’m sure I wouldn’t be attending” – Sarah, class participant

Tracey Raikes

Tracey is based in South Wales and teaches a variety of classes. She holds regular charity events for organisations such as Alzheimer’s Society and Cancer Research UK. She works closely with Age UK and has set up older adults groups to encourage better health and mental wellbeing, along with friendship building. She also arranges outings, meals and special occasions, regularly checking in with people who need extra support and offering her assistance.

As a Zumba Kids instructor, Tracey arranges kids parties and special occasions to keep the local children interested in physical activity. She also holds taster sessions at local events, encouraging the community to come together and be a part of something great.

I never thought that I would still be dancing like an idiot and enjoying every minute, in my seventies! This is in no small measure due to the skill,enthusiasm and encouragement of our lovely Tracey. When we are all going in different directions it’s a grin and a shake of the head,as long as we are enjoying ourselves she is happy. Love that girl.” – Ann, Zumba participant

Kathryn Williams

Kathryn is the owner and founder of Zestfit, based in Derby. Kathryn opened her own boutique studio in April 2017, with the aim to offer the local community a safe environment where they could exercise with feeling judgement or intimidation.

Every six weeks, Kathryn holds Prosecco Fridays. The class consists of a live DJ and an active session, followed by a glass of fizz. Members can bring a friend to this for free, experiencing the class and leaving uplifted. Kathryn brings her passion to every class and ensures her participants are rewarded for their determination. Each week a class goer is chosen to receive a present, encouraging them to keep up the good work. In her own words, Kathryn is “driven by making people feel awesome!”

I remember my first ever Insanity Class with Kat, I was incredibly nervous. I told Kat how I felt and she promised that she would look after me. She was true to that promise and has looked after me and every other Zestie since. That was 3 years ago and I’m still hooked on classes with her and Zestfit. Thankyou Zestfit for your encouragement and support and for pushing me to be a better and  stronger version of myself.” – Rach, regular Zestie

And the winner is…

Dance the Distance®

Dance the Distance® is an inspirational dance fitness event that takes participants on a journey through fun and motivating moves and tracks. The event is approximately equivalent to running 5km in steps and calories and gives participants the chance to take part in a fun and social alternative event and raise money for a chosen charity.

We rocked the infamous Spanish Hall at Winter Gardens and got some fantastic feedback from both instructors and participants! Check out some of our highlights!

Interested in teaching Dance the Distance®? Of course you are! Register your interest now!

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