Instructor spotlight: Meet Cat Darby

Meet instructor Cat Darby. Cat tells us a bit about herself, her motivations and top tips.

“I fell in love with Zumba fitness 12 years ago and became an instructor, it’s been one of the best things I’ve ever done. I mainly teach Zumba and circuit classes using resistance bands or free weights. These classes are usually at Eccles Leisure or Rainbow Community Centre but you may see me pop up covering classes at other centres from time to time.

Teaching group exercise not only keeps me accountable, but it’s also led to many friendships with SCL class participants over the years. The one thing I will always try to emphasise is that your only competition is yourself, so please don’t be put off from coming. Nobody is judging you. Everyone is just showing up as the best versions of themselves (whatever that is, on a particular day).

My classes are welcoming and you will be greeted with a smile from both me and other participants. They cater to all fitness levels whether you come for the social aspect or to challenge yourself; I have had young teenagers to people up to 84, and complete novices to avid gym-goers attend my sessions over the years and everything in between.

I’ve continued my development in the fitness space, gaining my level 2 qualifications in Exercise to Music and Gym Instruction, as well as most recently the L3 Award in Pre and Post Natal Exercise, which was so valuable as I was pregnant with my baby girl at the time. I now feel much more knowledgeable about how to adapt exercises for this demographic too.

My tip… would be try everything at least once! There are many varied classes and instructors on the SCL timetable. Have a go at different types of classes and see what you think. Attending different styles of class will help you to keep your ticker in good working order, keep strong enough to continue to do every day things with ease as you get older, and supple enough to touch your toes which seems like a good skill to have if you ask me :) and let’s not forget the mental benefits. I defy anyone to attend a class and not feel better for it afterwards.”

Join me on the days and times below:

And if these classes aren’t your cup of tea I’m more than happy to suggest other class styles and instructors to check out.

You can also keep up to date with my classes on Facebook or Instagram @findyourfitwithcat.