Katherine Hughes

My name is Katherine Hughes. I am a licensed Zumba, Strong by Zumba, zumba Toning, Aqua Zumba as well as certified Pilates instructor in both Mat classes as well as reformer.  I began my training at the age of 6 in the field of ballet with the School of Cleveland Ballet. For the next eleven years, I studied classical ballet, pointe, flamenco, Pilates Modern, and Jazz. I was also accepted to many accredited ballet schools on scholarships for summer intensives.  Throughout my high school years, I performed with the Cleveland Ballet as a member of the pre professional division. Later, I went on to pursue a dance career and college education while attending the Butler University in Indianapolis.  Finally graduating at The Ohio State University, with a B.A. in Germanic Language and Linguistics and a Dance Minor, I started teaching ballet and other dance classes at Columbus Youth Ballet.  After just two year,s I was asked to assume the role of Artistic Director for the pre-professional ballet school. As artistic director, I organized the ballet department, taught weekly classes, as well as staged full length ballets including the Nutcracker for the studio.  My ballet students have won awards and accreditations from major ballet competitions throughout the United States as well have gone on to purse professional careers in the industry.

While at the Columbus Youth Ballet, I was introduced to Zumba in 2007. I immediately fell in love with the class format.  Less than 6 months later, I received my license to teach Zumba and taught this class alongside my regular ballet classes to both adults and children.  After 6 years at the studio, I left to pursue other ventures at other studios. I continued to instruct Zumba classes at Pilates of Arlington where i also received my  certification to teach both Pilates mat and reformer classes.  

In 2015, i joined my current studio, Century Body.  Here i was able to harness my Zumba choreography and teaching skills alongside teaching ballet for another local ballet studio. I was also able to find another passion in Strong by Zumba.  I never thought, especially coming from a dance background, that i would appreciate this format so much. i was completely surprised myself when I found a great respect and adoration for this class.  It helped me transform my body especially after having my first daughter. at Century Body, I have harnessed my skills by attending four Zumba conventions, master classes, and special Strong by Zumba Sync tech labs.  I have also received my AFAA in Group Fitness and hold my CPR/AED certification from the Red Cross.  

I adore teaching Zumba and Strong by Zumba the most.  I love bringing joy to individuals who participate in my classes.  In all my classes, I incorporate the classic rhythms of Zumba; Salsa, Cumbia, Reggeaton, and Merengue, along with other rhythms and fusions such Kpop, Trap, Soca,  US Pop, Swing, Flamenco, etc. Also i like to bring in fitness elements not just dance into classes for Zumba. For Strong by Zumba, I try to push my students to be the best that they can be and push the limits of their ideas of what they can do.   I love seeing the sweaty faces of my students and participants just light up during classes. I love seeing them have the time of their lives but also get a great workout. 

I currently teach 3 Zumba, 4 Strong by Zumba, 1 Zumba Toning, 1 Pilates, and 4 Ballet Classes a week.

I just adore teaching and seeing the faces light up back at me.  I love making fitness fun and exciting for everyone.