Zolia Garcia knew at a young age that dance was her calling. At age 17, she knew being a Miami Heat dancer was her in future, and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. Now, you can dance with Garcia at Vixen Workout class or leading one of her own SoulMastery classes. We caught up with Garcia for a Quick 10 interview, but you can also follow her on Instagram - @Zoilagarcia_.
Tell us about yourself - where are you from and how did you find your way to the 305? How did you get your start in fitness and as an instructor?
I was born in Cuba and came to Miami at the age of three. All my life I loved dancing, singing, and acting at all the family barbecues. At age 17, I saw a Miami Heat game and went insane because I knew I wanted to become a Heat Dancer. At the age of 21 I became a Miami Heat dancer and was able to do that for one year. I am a working actress in Miami, I teach a dance-fitness class (VixenWorkout), and I am a fitness professional. About a month or two ago I created my own class — SoulMastery. It’s high intensity, yet self-reflective workout that makes you reflect on the way you deal with discomforts and negativity, learning how to push past these two things is critical. It merges the two things that helped me believe in myself, self-help and fitness.
What is your favorite part of being a fitnessinstructor?
Motivating others to strengthen their minds and spreading the idea that a sexy body is a fudging healthy one. Many people forget that and go on about how they don’t like this, or they have too much hips, or not enough legs. People are forgetful that health is a privilege and we must honor ourselves if we want to live a magnificent life.
What is one fitness myth you would like to bust?
Following societal diets. We are all different and should eat according to what makes us feel most alive. Food is fuel for us. So knowing what to eat is as easy as saying, “what gives me the most energy” - and I’m not talking about coffee - the answer to that question will guide you to the foods that you should be eating. Listen to your body not advertisement.
Other than where you teach, where is yourfavorite place in Miami to train?
At the beach, thewater has always given me energy and vitality.
Besides fitness, what’s one thing you’repassionate about?
Writing. I lovewriting on all things life and positivity.
What are you excited about right now?
My Soul-Mastery class. It’s my passion project and I have no idea how I will begin to spread it to my community but that while “figuring it out” excites me.
What is a long-term goal you are working towardsor would love to achieve?
Finish writing mybook.
What is the one thing you do every day to stayfit?
Stretch in the mornings and drink lots of water.
How do you practice mental health in youreveryday life?
I go for a run or dance while listening to a motivational video. Usually Oprah, Jim Carrey, or Denzel Washington.
What do you love about the South Floridafitness/health & wellness community?
How much it is growing and how the fitness and wellness community has opened up the door to self-help and spirituality - mainly through Yoga.
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