You may not be allowed to sing and dance on a patio this summer, but you can move and groove outdoors to the beat at Cathy’s Zumba in Da House.
Cathy McLean, owner of Cathy’s Zumba in Da House studio on Holland Street West and has been teaching Zumba dance classes since 2009.
When the province entered Stage 2 of reopening, McLean resumed her classes outdoors after receiving approval from the town and plaza landlord, and her faithful regulars have been coming out to support her since.
“We love the classes!” expressed Jill Wright, a member of the studio since 2011. “We need Cathy! She is inspiring and motivating!”
McLean’s infectious smile and energetic classes range from hip hop to Latino dance moves mixed with lunges, squats and stretches.
Since COVID, McLean has modified the classes and schedule, offering a free outdoor session for newcomers and a reduced class fee of just $6 for returning participants.
Her assistant and long-time friend, Anisa Bhayat, helps guide the dancers with McLean, providing step-by-step movements and encouragement.
“The unique thing about Cathy is she makes every single person feel good!” exclaims Bhayat. “People feel connected here.”
McLean has a background in bodybuilding and was a fitness instructor and personal trainer for 35 years. She started teaching Zumba classes out of her home before opening up her studio in 2011.
“I’m a boutique,” states McLean. “All these ladies come here because they want THIS Zumba.”
McLean’s followers come from all over the surrounding area including Schomberg, Aurora, and Tottenham, and when they were unable to attend due to COVID, McLean sent virtual lessons online to each member.
“She didn’t desert us,” explains member Joyce Cunningham. “She truly cares about each and every one of us.”
McLean was presented with the town’s Community Builder Civic Award in 2015 after donating her time and efforts to several fundraising projects within the community.
However, McLean hasn't always been full of energy and excitement; having overcome many personal struggles over the years.
In 2009, her mother passed away suddenly from an aneurysm, leaving McLean feeling lost and hopeless.
“I was really close with my mother,” shares McLean. “Zumba helped me get through losing her – [now] she dances with me everyday.”
In 2013, McLean was struck with another devastation after being diagnosed with breast cancer where she underwent a double mastectomy. The ordeal made her stronger and more passionate for her craft which is seen throughout her classes.
“We’re a family here,” shares McLean. “We’re about the love!”
McLean had the opportunity to move her classes indoors as part of the province's stage 3 of reopenings; however, after doing a poll with her members she made the decision to keep the classes outdoors to accommodate social distancing better.
“I would lose participants if I moved the classes back indoors,” explains McLean.
However, the studio is available to rent for those looking for a warm and inviting space to host classes in.
Currently, McLean holds her outdoor classes every Monday and Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. and Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10 a.m.
Stay connected with McLean on her Facebook page “Cathy-Zumba in da house” and stay tuned for details on her upcoming flash-mob performance.
