instructors

Steph trained as a dance teacher with the I.D.T.A. in 1998, qualifying in both Freestyle Dance and Linedance.

For 20 years, she ran Hotsteps Dance, a popular children’s dance school in Havering and Hatfield Peverel, Essex.

The ethos at Hotsteps was simple: to give children who only wanted to dance once a week the chance to shine on stage once a year in front of their friends and family. The classes were always about fun, inclusion, and enjoyment for all – values Steph has carried forward into her Zumba Gold classes today.

Although she taught Freestyle and Linedance for many years, Steph discovered her true passion in Zumba in 2011. Drawn to the uplifting music, simple choreography, and chorus–verse format, she even trained as a Zumba Instructor before ever attending a class herself!

As she grew older, Steph realised that the over-50s were often overlooked in mainstream fitness spaces. After two decades of teaching children and training other dance teachers, she decided to focus on creating classes where this generation could feel included, celebrated, and confident.

Today, through Zumba with Steph, she combines 30+ years of teaching experience with her love of dance and community – helping women stay active, healthy, and connected, all while having fun.

Sarah provides cover

Sarah first joined Steph's Fitness class in Hatfield Peverel back in 2015. She quickly caught the Zumba bug and impressed us all with how easily she remembered the routines. Steph invited her to help choreograph some new dances and to join her at her Zumba Gold classes, where she soon discovered a real passion for supporting the over-50s with their fitness.

From there, Sarah stepped up to the front of the class, relearning the routines the other way round so everything flowed seamlessly. Her energy, enthusiasm, and commitment made her a natural fit.

In 2021, Sarah obtained her Zumba license and now runs her own Zumba Gold classes. She has also taken over the Steph's Fitness class in Hatfield Peverel where her journey began – a true full circle!

Sarah also covers Steph's classes whenever she's away. Because they share so much choreography, her sessions feel consistent, familiar, and full of the same fun energy that our participants know and love.

Sarah is not only a fantastic instructor but also a wonderful part of our Zumba family. Steph is proud to have her as both a colleague and a friend.

Steph Gunn

Member of the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) and Qualified Zumba Instructor (ZIN Member) with over 30 years of teaching experience.

When Steph is away.......

Sarah provides cover