THE PRO BEAT
A FR K
Hey Pos
With sum future, heading fresh no resetting me to g pencils.
As a UCLA alumni, John Wooden, the famed basketball coach, author and all around phenomenal human, holds a special place in my heart. He had a lot of philosophies and methods for how he coached, but one that resonates with me during this season is his insistence on his team learning to properly tie their shoes. At a practical level, putting on your socks with precision and thoughtfully tightening your laces leads to greater stability and a lower chance of getting blisters, but it’s also a metaphor for the key to success lying in mastering the basics.
This season I’m encouraging you to reset your foundations. Whether you’re new to teaching or a seasoned pro, we wanted this issue to include some of the reminders of the basics–things like what it means to be a first-timer in class and how to launch at a new Venue.
Taking the time to remind yourself of the smaller details that lead to the greatest results can be a game changer. Spend a few minutes to poke through The Label and reorient yourself to the incredible resources in the Learning Center, or join one of our virtual workshops or courses that cover everything from building a Set List to promoting like a Pro. It will undoubtedly set you up for greater success heading into the new season. And lastly, get some R & R! We deserve it!
Wishing you a fantastic summer filled with sunshine, music, and a lot of noise
PEACE, LOVE + RIPSTIX, Kirsten Potenza
NOEL CHRISTOPHER SATOR SALARDA
POUND Pro, Philippines ⚡ Team Hukbong Habagat ⚡ IG: @Chris grindandpound
As a passionate POUND Pro and leader of team Hukbong Habagat during Tour, Chris truly made waves He hopped on board to ride the wave of fun and belonging, creating meaningful connections with his team through POUND+Pours, sharing recipes, and team outings His heartfelt responses caught our tide, highlighting the incredible community that he helped inspire Chris’ positivity had a ripple effect that spread far and wide We're stoked to award him with $1000 for his amazing efforts and contributions Thanks for all you do, Chris!
What was your favorite moment during Tour To Summer?
“The food was the most memorable It was a surprise for me to find out that some people I’m with in my POUND Posse were excellent culinary talents they got to proudly showcase and share their talents, I am grateful for that ”
How did participating in Tour To Summer impact your community after it ended?
“I believe we made a positive impact by enabling a healthier lifestyle and social support...Tour to Summer is just one chapter, our adventure isn’t over… I think good things take time to do, more than just one summer. So our mission has not finished… It is an infinite game a culture, a lifestyle that we want to build and then maintain. The mission of social fitness a healthy, inclusive, and cohesive society that continues So we continue ”
What tips do you have for others looking to get involved in future Tours?
“First, rebel with good cause…the prompts were like a travel guide book, they were suggestions and inspirations but it was up to us to decide how our journey would be. So we did our own things and created space, freedom, and a sense of ownership for people to participate. Second, rebel only with good cause. At the same time, discipline still mattered, we still did the workouts, the way they ought to be. It was fun and food and everything, yet we still stayed true to our project and purpose of fitness to help individuals be healthy and create a more resilient society.”
How do you plan to use your $1,000 prize?
“My surfside dream of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics is still a long-time away! Instead, I pledge to invest the $1,000 in more training and knowledge to improve as a fitness professional This benefits me and at the same time, allows me to better serve my community Tour to Summer 2024 was created to be a team-effort, and my Tour to Summer was only made possible together with lots of people I am grateful for the people who were with me By becoming a better fitness professional, I can support even more the people who were there for me I am only a part-time fitness professional, but it is something I am truly proud of because it makes me a better person, a better citizen by helping make our communities healthier, safer, more resilient places to live in Reinvesting the prize money means we can all be fit for the future, and be able to do more adventures ”
PRO JAM J
A K A R T A
History has been made! The first-ever Pro Jam Jakarta brought together 100+ Pros from Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Borneo, and the Philippines on July 19 at Raffles Hotel in Jakarta
The event featured a range of engaging sessions, including an Unplugged master class, a refresher on The Power of POUND, deep dives into Power, Precision, and Performance, Rockstar Coaching and Cues, and creating Set Lists for Success, all led by badass ICONs Amber, Daniel, and Tari
Connecting with so many Pros from across Southeast Asia was truly incredible We made SO much noise on social media, we're pretty sure everyone around the world heard it! The day wrapped up with an exciting POUND Rockout Workout master class and a lively party mixer where everyone bonded over cocktails and stories (not to mention, grabbing up that exclusive merch)
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event so special Your energy and presence made it an unforgettable day for the entire POUND community!
HOW WE MAKING
CANFITPRO
WWe are back at CanFit Pro this year! Opperman and Melanie-Anne Bousquet an Pro! Use the code SOAR24 during ch discount! Register Here
CanFitPro with ICON Michelle Opperman Aug 9-10 �� Metro Toronto Convention Center
SESSION SCHEDULE:
Aug. 9 // Lecture
Workout Rebellion with POUND Rockout W
1:30PM- 3:00PM
Aug. 9 // Class
Master Class (Activity Stage) - POUND Rock
4:50PM- 5:20PM
Aug. 10 // Lecture
A Focus on Fun
8:15AM-9:30AM
Aug. 10 // Lecture + Class POUND Unplugged 1:00 PM-2:30 PM
BIBIONEBEACHFITNESS
We are also making noise in Italy! Join our global ICONS Magda Franceschino, Daniela Borzetti, Pia Thiemann, Eszter Mezei and Nadine Karam for an incredible POUND weekend at the Bibione Beach Fitness 2024. For more information, visit the events site!
Sept 21 ⚡ 13:00 - 13:50 Stage 3
Sept 22 ⚡ 15:00 - 15:50 Stage 3
Sept 20 ⚡ 17:00 - 17:50 Stage 3
FUNDRAISINGEVENTS
Sept 7
POUND OUT Drugs in the Park
Organized by Shauna Argento
Conway Sports and Fitness Center
Mill Pond Road, Conway, SC, USA
Sept 14
POUND OUT Childhood Cancer
Organized by Karon Boatwright
280 Recreation Lane, Walterboro, SC, USA
LAUNCHIN POUNDAT NEWVENU
We caught up with Michael Chow to get insights on how he sets himself up for success when heading to a new Venue. Michael shared his strategies on the importance of doing your homework and getting prepped in advance, ensuring that every new class he teaches is a hit.
Preparation: I first think about who it is that I’m teaching to. With a new Venue, I don’t necessarily know who it is, however, I have visited the Venue several times and connected with members and staff there to get a sense of the community. With a fairly mixed demographic, my choice will be to lead a 45-minute beginner Set List because it will meet the needs of the majority of the class.
My Set List + Track Selection: I will construct class in a strategic and safe way thinking of the order, and the differences that even a Set 1 has with another Set 1. For instance, the Set 1 track I put in after my Warm Up will be different from the Set 1 after my T&A track when it comes to vibe, progressions, and techniques. My goal for the first Set 1 is to continuing the physiological ‘warm up’ for my students (especially if it’s a new Venue with a new group of Posse members) and setting them up for success for the rest of class. I choose tracks that I know inside + out for my first class at a new Venue, aiding in my ability to provide on-the-spot coaching for unique participant needs. Whether a Venue and the Posse there have experienced a POUND classes before or not, they are still new to me and my style of instruction.
Practice: Using the tools in The Label, I will practice the Set List I’ve created. For a brand new Set List, I will start with my Warm Up, getting to a place where I feel good (I know drum solos are welcome), then move to my next track - the Set 1. When I feel good about that I will practice my Warm Up and my Set 1 together and keep doing this progression so that eventually I am practicing the entire Set List with transition times inbetween. I like to physically practice choreography, rehearsing Movement Spectrum options (that may look different for the Warm Up and first Set 1 vs. the finale track) and verbal + visual cueing. I like to actually picture my students in front of me!
Before class: I arrive early! For the Venue itself being new, even though I’ve visited, it gives me time to set up the music + mats (and hand out Ripstix). It also gives me an opportunity to ask about injuries (or anything I need to be concerned about) person by person…I know in my scope of practice, I cannot diagnose, but it helps me manage what options I will show for them during class. I also ask if it’s their first time taking POUND. This will help me motivate anyone that may be feeling timid or unsure and continue to encourage those who may immediately feel that it’s the right class for them.
During class: Nail your class intro! This is your big first impression with your Posse and a great opportunity to add some extra inspiration and motivation, as well as prepare class for what’s to come! Show Movement Spectrum options so participants know right off the bat that they can move in a way that honors their body. If you didn’t get the chance to speak to each person in the room about pre-existing injuries, take a moment to ask the group. You can make this more anonymous by asking the class to close their eyes, and if they have an injury or an area that doesn’t feel great, to point to that place on their body with their Ripstix. Take note of what’s been shared and make sure you are showing alternative options throughout the class that honors the bodies in the room.
REMINDEROFTHE PERMISSIONTO ROCK!THEREARE NOMISTAKESIN POUND!
We just call them drum solos, so keep moving and have fun! Rockstars in class may be new to POUND and, in this example, are all new to you – share that we’re going to let loose and have some fun!
After class: Try to take a few moments to deepen your new relationships + the connections that you made that day. This can look like Ripstix high-fives at the end of class or standing by the door as your new Posse exits. I love to ask how they feel and remind them that they are rockstars!
POV: MYFIRST POUNDCLASS
We asked a first-time POUND Rockout Workout Emma's journey highlights the challenges and trium
“IPROBABLYMADE ABOUT2,992ERRORS PERSONG,BUTIWAS SWEATING,TRYING TOKEEPUP,AND WHENIDIDNAILIT,I FELTLIKEIWAS BASICALLYTRAVIS BARKER’S…DISTANT COUSIN”
I love shaking m up any party w long. When I h pretend rockst supportive com energizing work
Navigating the
The initial step of signing up for the class was a bit confusing. The class posting on the POUND website left me wondering: Do I need to reserve a spot in the class? Where exactly do I go?
The Beat Drop
With Ripstix in hand, the nerves started to kick in, and I was ready to unleash my inner rockstar. Then, the music started. I'm not a pro dancer by ANY means, but I like to think I can keep a beat. I probably made about 2,992 errors per song, but I was sweating, trying to keep up, and when I did nail it, I felt like I was basically Travis Barker’s… distant cousin �� I was nervous, and I swear people were
looking at me! I appreciated it when the instructor nodded at me and smiled (I must have been doing something right, right?).
The Pro’s enthusiasm was contagious, making it easier to immerse myself in the workout I never felt insecure about making mistakes The atmosphere was inclusive, and the workout was just the right length long enough to get a good exercise session in but not so long that it was exhausting.
Picking Up the Moves
Being completely new to POUND, I was worried about keeping up. However, the moves were easy to pick up after a couple of repeated rounds. I appreciated the cues and signals, although it would have been helpful if they had been explained more clearly like what the arm circles and side switches meant (cueing)
Finding My Groove
As the class progressed, I found myself getting lost in the music and I started to feel the burn in my muscles. The Pro’s encouragement and the collective energy of the group kept me motivated. There were moments of challenge where I was not drumming to ANY beat, but each one was met with a sense of accomplishment The sweat pouring down my face was a testament to the effort I was putting in
A Community of Support
What truly set POUND apart was the sense of community. Every person in the room was on their own journey, yet we were united by a common goal – to push ourselves and support each other. The high-fives, smiles, and words of encouragement created an atmosphere of positivity and empowerment. I do wish that the instructor had introduced themselves at the beginning of the class. I think I would have connected with them a little more, and I know I would have looked her up for future classes or even followed them on Instagram.
As the class came to an end, I was exhausted yet exhilarated. I knew I would likely be sore the next day, but I felt an incredible sense of achievement The endorphin rush was real, and I couldn’t help but smile I had conquered my first POUND class!
Persistence is Key
It's important to acknowledge that many people, including myself, can feel challenged and somewhat defeated after their first class with anything new. I think the key is to give it a few tries. The moves and routines become easier to follow with practice, and the sense of accomplishment grows with each session. As an instructor, it might be helpful to remember this and plan for ways to encourage newcomers to keep going.
LABELLEARNING
ALL ABOUT COURSES
We are dedicated to providing our Pros with a comprehensive learning experience through a combination of free workshops and paid series (courses at a discounted rate). We believe that continuous education is key to resetting and enhancing our instructional future. By offering educational content through paid courses, we aim to allow our instructors to delve deeper into their career, fostering more interaction and practical application. This approach ensures that Pros leave with tangible tools that support their continued growth and success. The Label serves as a Pro’s one-stop shop for official POUND continued education.
1
PROmote Like a Pro Series (2Courses) - Elevate Your Marketing Game
AUG 27 + SEPT 24 • 4:00PM-5:30PM PACIFIC
Back by popular demand, PROmote Like a Pro is a comprehensive two-part marketing course designed to provide education and tools to elevate your class and event promotion efforts to PRO STATUS! Whether you're a seasoned marketer or a newbie looking to make your mark, this course is tailored to equip you with the skills and insights needed to stand out.
Course 1 - All About Canva join former Learning Designer for Canva, POUND ICON, and HQ Events Manager, Em, as she dives deep into the Canva platform. Pros in attendance will receive access to an EXCLUSIVE POUND Canva brand kit and assets, giving you a unique edge in your promotional efforts.
Course 2 - All About Social join social media guru and Brand Manager, Savannah, as she demystifies how influencers achieve traction, visibility, and creativity with their social media posts.
Registration is for both (2) courses. Pros must sign up by 8/27/2024 to take advantage of series pricing. Each course earns 1 POUND Education Hour when taken live.
2
Cueing to Safe Joint Action Series (3-Courses)
SEPT 5, OCT 3 + NOV 14 • 12:00PM-1:30PM
PACIFIC
This comprehensive 3-part course is designed to elevate the coaching skills of POUND instructors, enabling them to cue safe, effective, and engaging classes for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Together, participants will delve into the movement mechanics of the body's joints and their various ranges of motion, applying this deeper understanding to POUND's four positions and frequently used techniques.
Course 1 - All About Upper Body will equip Pros with the knowledge to analyze and improve upper body mechanics, ensuring that participants perform movements safely and effectively.
Course 2 - All About Lower Body will provide insights into the complexities of lower body movements, helping Pros understand and address issues such as knee and hip alignment, balance, and strength.
Course 3 - Put It Together will combine new learnings from the previous sessions and put their skills to the test.
Pros must sign up by course 1 (09/05/2024) to take advantage of series pricing. Each course earns 1 POUND Education Hour when taken live.
Sign Me Up→
Leading the Unplugged Experience Series (3-Courses)
SEPT 27, OCT 25 + NOV 22 • 9:00AM-10:30AM
PACIFIC
POUND Unplugged was designed to seamlessly transition from the dynamic energy of the ROCK portion of class to the calming, restorative elements of the RESET portion. This ensures participants leave each class feeling both challenged and nourished and enables students to experience a holistic workout that not only engages their bodies but also rejuvenates their minds. In this 3-course Series, ICON and Sr. Manager of Education + Training, Joyce Wong, teaches the intricacies of leading the ROCKto-RESET transition as well as how to bring the class experience full circle through purposeful meditation leadership. ICON and breath work coach, Michelle Opperman, joins the series for course 2 to discuss the importance and science behind breath work.
Course 1: How to Lead Class Transitions and Ground Tracks with Confidence focuses on applying thoughtful transitions to Unplugged class instruction and teaches Pros to lead ground tracks standing with confidence.
Course 2: The Science of Breathing + the Why Behind Unplugged Rhythmic Breathing Tracks provides continued education on how breathing to the beat in different ways can influence how one feels and its many applications in class and life.
Course 3: Create and Lead Meditations with Purpose provides guidance on writing your own guided meditations, and insight on how to lead meditations with authenticity.
Registration is for all three courses. Pros must register by course 1 by 09/27/2024 to take advantage of series pricing. Each course earns 1 POUND Education Hour when taken live.
Sign Me Up→
MORE CHANCES TO ROCK (AND RESET)
Download the BINGO card and track your learning to be entered to WIN! Once you complete a line vertically, horizontally or diagonally, take a snapshot of your Bingo card, tag us @poundfit AND email us at prosuccess@poundfit.com with the subject line ‘POUND Bingo’ and be entered to win $50 towards the POUND shop! Contest ends September 30, 2024.
WITH
L I N D A W O Z N I A K
During POUND’s 2024 Rock The Boat (RTB) Pro Camp, we hosted an exciting Cruise Quest where participants were tasked with completing a social bingo card filled with challenges and activities. These activities were designed to help Pros connect with other Pros, Posse members, ICONS, and HQ, while also encouraging them to step outside of their comfort zones. Out of the nine Cruise Quest finishers, one stood out and was selected as the winner Linda Wozniak. An energetic POUND Pro making noise from New Jersey, Linda shares her exhilarating experience on the RTB Cruise and the highlights of her journey through the Cruise Quest
POUND HQ: Can you tell us about your overall experience on the cruise?
“My overall experience on the cruise was exhilarating, I must say. The Valiant Lady was a great choice and a beautiful ship with so many things to do. There were many places to snack, drink, and eat, with the pizza place being a must! The shows were good, and I loved the pools and walking track. Our destination in the Dominican Republic had so many options for excursions in Taino Bay. A bunch of us just stayed right at the port and checked out the pools, local food, surfing, and shopping. I loved the themed nights, especially Scarlet Night. That is where I met so many Pros from all over the country and a few from across the ocean. Fancy Night was a blast, and I loved seeing all the outfits. Hanging with friends there's nothing better than that and dancing in the water.”
POUND HQ: What was your favorite part of the cruise? Was there a particular activity or moment that stood out to you?
“The best part was that headquarters made group dinner reservations for all of us, which allowed so many of us to meet for the first time. I’m so glad that ICONS joined us to be a part of our experience. The restaurants were fabulous, and the food was delicious. I enjoyed meeting friends that I didn't get to see regularly. The training that headquarters offered was fantastic and different. They included themed classes like the '80s and a 'game' class, which was a blast.”
POUND HQ: What was your strategy for the RTB Quest, and did you face any unexpected challenges along the way?
“My favorite part was winning the Quest! OMG... I've never done anything like this before. I'm usually the person who says, "Nah, I'm good," but on the cruise, this came up, and I looked at the challenges and said, "What the heck, I'll do it." I thought I'd only get a few completed, but then I actually completed the entire quest. I have to say, if it wasn't for ICON Melanie-Anne Bousquet encouraging me, I might not have even done it. So thank you, Melanie-Anne, for being my trainer, my inspiration, and most of all, my dear friend. One of the prizes was a photo shoot. I've never had one, so I really wanted it, and when I won, I was so excited about the experience.”
POUND HQ: What is your favorite thing about being a POUND Pro, and how has it impacted your life both personally and professionally?
“Becoming a POUND Pro was a tough decision to make, actually. I was introduced to POUND in 2020 when Lisa Pepper came to my recreation center in town and offered classes. I really needed to get in shape. I retired back in 2019 and was just lying around doing nothing and gaining weight. So I said to myself, I needed to make a change. I had to add something to my life to make a difference in myself. So I signed up to take Lisa's class. I can honestly say that her Warm Up, "Pour Some Sugar on Me," made me smile, and I was hooked. Then the songs got better and better. I was squatting and sweating, and not in a gym! This is great, and I never stopped. I've been doing POUND since that first strike and have loved it ever since. As time went on, Lisa Pepper said to me, "You need to get licensed." So I signed up with ICON MelanieAnne Bousquet’s virtual training on December 12, 2022. I'm an in-person learner, but I anxiously did it anyway. I knew when I moved to Florida that there were no POUND classes where I live, so getting licensed was always a plan.
This is when my life totally changed. I can actually say it saved my life, as I tell people. I went from being very introverted, with no friends, no work, and nothing to do with my life. Now I have so many friends from all over the country and the world. I cannot thank Lisa Pepper enough for coming to my town and showing me I can be someone positive and I can motivate others as she did me. This is the best decision I have ever made. Now I teach with Lisa at the senior center in town and in class just to keep me ready. I haven't started my own classes yet but plan to.”
POUND HQ: Did you have any memorable interactions or make any new friends during the cruise?
“Meeting other Pros on the cruise was great. I met new Pros who had just been licensed, to those who have been doing this for years. I made new friends and became closer to the ones I already had, which is so heartwarming and humbling at the same time, and I love every one of them. It was great seeing all my friends at our concert up on the pool or around the pool, teaching all of us the new tracks and having a blast, jumping in the pool at the end and dancing in the water.”
y g
who aspire to participate in future Pro Camps?
“My advice to other Pros who aren't sure if it's worth the investment of going on the cruise for the training is... DO IT! You won't regret a minute of it. The training is phenomenal, and you'll meet the best people in your life. We are a family like no other. We are there for each other no matter what. Just do it, and then come look for me, because I'll be there and then you can say, "You were right."
POUND HQ: Is there anything else you'd like to share about your experience or your journey with POUND?
“One last thing, I was on last year's cruise where I met two lovely ladies, Sabrina Schwenke and Candy Zavala. You two ladies have changed my life totally. You inspired me this past year to go on a weight loss journey, and it's because of you that I am healthier and in better shape than I have ever been. I am so glad I went last year and humbled to have you both as my friends.”
