The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) recognized Zumba and Strong Nation with its first Spirit of Fitness Award during their annual Optima Fitness and Wellness Conference.
Laurie McCartney, president of Global Fitness & Wellness Solutions for Ascend Learning, the parent company of NASM and AFAA, presented the award to the Zumba and Strong Nation communities as part of Optima’s welcome keynote address.
Outside of its fitness platform, Zumba’s network of instructors and customers participants are actively involved in outreach campaigns. This year, Zumba partnered with The Global FoodBanking Network to deliver more than one million free meals to families impacted by COVID-19. Zumba also raised over $5.7 million to support philanthropic causes including the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Augie’s Quest for the cure of ALS.
Alberto Perlman, CEO and co-founder of Zumba, accepted the award and said, “When stay-at-home orders were first put into effect in March, we made it our mission to keep people moving, not only for a physical release but as a way to help with the stress and anxiety due to the Pandemic,” said Perlman. “Our incredible instructors around the world never missed a beat, learning the ins and outs of technology so they could deliver amazing virtual classes and eventually teaching outdoor classes to keep their communities moving and connected, continuing to create joy in a time where we all have needed it the most.”
As part of the Spirit of Fitness award, NASM and AFAA will provide 20 scholarships that Zumba will share with its instructors to support its commitment to continuing education.
