"I love lost 20-25lbs, lowered my cholesterol & reduced my stress"

I recently celebrated a birthday and realized just how much I had improved in the last year, physically & emotionally.  I started doing Zumba once per week approximately 11 months ago.  I quickly became addicted and now attend approximately 3 times a week. It is said that in order to be successful at exercise & weight loss you have to find something you enjoy doing.  I have truly found my bliss with Zumba!  Linda is so inspirational!  Linda’s energy and enthusiastic personality never fail to motivate me.  I have met so many great women at Linda’s classes and truly feel that I have gained a “Zumba Family”.   I have lost approximately 20 – 25 pounds, lowered my cholesterol and reduced my stress.  Linda, I couldn’t have done it without you!  Nadine D.

"I lost 8 inches & my body is toning up"

"I started Zumba in April 2010 with my daughter and I love it.  Zumba has helped me get back into shape.  I have lost about 8 inches and my body is toning up.  I try to get out to Zumba 3 times a week and sometimes that isn't enough, always looking forward to the next class.  The class brings energy into your life which we all need.  Great people and fantastic instructor who makes us push ourselves to the limit.  Never sweat like this before, what a workout!" Ramona M

"I have tried many different fitness classes but this is something much more"

I can’t tell you the exact date I started Zumba with Linda Raponi but I can tell you the exact time in my life. In January 2008 my husband suffered serious injuries working as a paramedic when the ambulance in which he was treating a patient was t-boned by a transport truck. After months of supporting him through hospitals, rehab facilities and countless medical appointments I was feeling extremely burnt out and was feeling like a caregiver in need of care. My long time best friend thought I needed to do something for me and invited me to join her Zumba class. From the very first class, I knew I was hooked! Linda was, and continues to be more than an instructor to her clients. She has put together a wonderful group of women who support each other in their fitness and wellness goals. It is a community of caring, loving and giving. Linda not only ensures that those who attend her classes continually work on improving their fitness and wellness but also ensures that it is a community of people who care for each other and those around them. Linda’s unending energy and caring nature has led us to give back through different fundraisers and initiatives that makes the Pickering community and beyond, a better place. Linda has also put together the Pure Energy Team that continues to grow and supports all of us that attend Zumba, Pilates and Yoga classes. I can’t imagine my life without Linda and Zumba being a part of it. Linda is caring, encouraging, energetic, loving and kind beyond measure and has the expertise to lead the best fitness program on the planet! The entire team, consisting of Linda, Mika, Lily, Kat, Irene, Maria and Winel ensure there are well rounded classes and the support that each of these ladies provide is something that comes from their hearts. I’m old enough to have tried many different fitness classes but this is something much more. It is a community that supports and truly cares for each other. We are all truly friends and this is very much to do with who Linda is as a person and how she models community caring and support.

"Zumba has changed my life" 

must say that Zumba has changed my life too.  I have come to realize as I get older that exercise is very important for so many reasons.  I was never one to enjoy exercise and I hated Phys Ed in school.  Finding Zumba is the best thing that could happen!  It is one exercise that I love and I look forward to going to class.  For me there is no exercise that is more fun than Zumba.  It truly feels like you are gettin down at a party.  I love it!!!!!!!!!!!! 
Even though I have 2 left feet at times, I was and continue to be determined to learn those steps.  I also like that we have many fitness levels in our classes and you don't feel out of place if you are not the star athlete. Tracy L

"Transforming Lives"

I want to tell you my story about how Zumba has made me a better person...you got a minute? 😉...you will likely be able to relate!👍
It began with a warm smile and an invite from Linda, to try out a class with her!... 
So, even though I basically hid in the very back row, trying not to screw up too much, for about a year, I stuck with it.... there was something so satisfying about what I was trying to do.
Then, I remember it, and will never forget when I got a personal email from her, asking how I was and she had invited me on her quest with a newly formed fitness group, Pure Energy Fitness. Well, how could I not! And that honestly felt wonderful that she wanted me to be part of the new adventure!!
So, I came out to her classes and as time went by I made some friends and people started using my nickname that Linda dearly called me, 'Smiley'!😊 I had never felt SO accepted and truly appreciated, from such a large group of women before, and that's honestly why I smiled so much!! I felt personal walls falling down around me that I had built up over the years...crumbling away these walls is what I needed for the next chapter that came...
About two years into going to Zumba and taking part in the zumba community events, I sort of had a personal transformation, over the course of about a year and a half I changed some things around in my life...
But one particular thing I did was what really got things moving and changing for me. I came to Linda, quietly and told her, (out of a bit of desperation), with tears in my eyes, that I needed to lose weight, and it was the last bit of wall I needed to break down, so I could set myself free! First of all, she hugged me tightly and said she would do whatever she could to help me achieve my goal...and then I came to every single Zumba class, as well as speed walking with a friend of mine, and over the course of a few months, I felt like I turned into a butterfly!🦋 It was crazy how good I felt about everything and how much I managed to challenge myself at times, but I didn't want to let myself or Linda down, so I kept at it...and I loved and still do love how I feel about myself! 
After the transformation happened, I started to gain close friendships with so many of you ladies, and some that I know in my heart will last a lifetime!!💕 One day I really thought about it and realized that out of all the things that I've done or been part of or believed in; this group, this Zumba community, is the best place that I have ever been part of! Because not only do I have happiness, good health, great friends who are supportive and uplifting, (in many ways!!), an awesome party always waiting to happen at every meeting (enter major endophin boost!), endless hugs and high fives...I have a second family and something always and infinitely positive in my life!💖 
So this is how Zumba (and Linda) has made me a better person! I had to go through the door, but I was so fortunate to come across it, like SO many that has opened for me since it all began! 
Happy 2018, let's see where we'll go on this journey!!😊💕 
💖-Smiley (Jennifer R)

 "When you're having a bad day, it's where u wanna be to lift your spirits"

I came to pure energy fitness because I heard so many good things about Linda and the ladies who join her to teach, to dance and have fun.  The atmosphere is non judgemental, everyone is so open, friendly and accepting of each other....warts and all!! It's a great workout and you always feel like your having fun.  When you're having a bad day, it's where u wanna be to lift your spirits, a hug and a dance and the mood is lifted.  PEF team is fabulous! Lynn C

"Best Cardio Workout & incredible people"

TThis Zumba class is by far the best cardio workout combined with great music and a community of incredible people. Linda has the most energy I have ever witnessed and positivity flows from her so freely its infectious. I feel honoured and humbled to be part of the incredible mix of people this class has introduced me to, all with the same goal of fun, fitness and support for one another. Jennifer S

"Loving, Caring Family"

​I​t was 7 years last summer that I first experienced Zumba; I had no idea it existed but I just knew I wanted to do something different besides riding a stationary bike and walking.  I also love to dance and  I just decided that once a year at some event was not enough any more!
The instructor (Linda) was very welcoming and I really didn't care that I couldn't move like some of the other women; it just felt so good to move and it gave me such joy, something that has continued to this day. My kids laughed at my Zumba dancing but it didn't matter to me.
Along the way, I met some wonderful women, of all ages (and a few good men!) From an exercise class, it has evolved, in my opinion to a place to be encouraged to grow, share good and bad times and to be supported. It is a testament to Linda's spirit and leadership that this group has grown to include Pilates, morning walks and now Yoga, as well as involve us in giving back to the community with fund raisers, toy drives etc.
I am a very quiet private person so its been a change for me to be more vocal, and try a few new things; I hope to be able to continue to grow and improve my fitness level, as well as share the warmth I have experienced in my new home.  I expected to enjoy the music and exercise; I never expected to feel such a closeness to those around me and to be so touched by them.
My advice to new people would be to let go and enjoy moving your body; there have been many studies showing how dance aids in movement and brain health as you age; as long as you feel like a Shakira, it doesn't matter what you look like!  Move at your own pace, doing low impact where necessary.  Linda and her team are professional, well trained in safety and first aid and are always looking after us  You may just sign up for the exercise but will find that you are part of a loving, caring family!  Jamie Megit

"Sisterhood through Strength"

As human beings we all want to belong and be accepted, and as women we want sisterhood through strength.
This is what “Pure Energy” brings to me. 
I have been the #1 fan of Linda Raponi’s for the past 7 or so years.
When I first joined I did so with the intent of getting physically fit.
I love to dance and Zumba gave me both.
However, through the years I have realized that Linda brings much more to Pure Energy.
I feel loved, accepted, never judged, always welcomed, uninhibited, encouraged and exhilarated with each class.
 
I love, love, love Zumba and feel connected with the whacky group of women who love unconditionally.
I have made friends and a network of support.
 
Zumba is Love and Strength ;o) .  Doreen

"You have added to my life"

 I was a little skeptical when I started Zumba as I was out of my comfort zone. From the minute I met Linda all my skepticism left.  Linda was very welcoming and reassuring and continues to be just that.  She creates such a friendly and supportive atmosphere that makes you love to come and be a part of! Just last night I heard Linda say to a new client that we are all individuals, everyone works at their own ability and none of us move the same way.  Linda includes herself in this and I believe her attitude is infectious -we all love coming and exercising with her and our Zumba family! Thanks Linda you have added to my life and I will always love you for it!
Heather Vani

"She pushes me to improve & give us variation to meet our individual needs!"

She reason that I started Zumba was convenience because Zumba was next door to my kids’ gymnastics.  The reason that I stayed was due to Linda.  She makes exercise fun and that’s what keeps me coming back for more!  She is energetic, positive and entertaining (this helps to keep my mind off the fact that we are working hard!).  She is charismatic personality who keeps you on your toes and always off balance (sometimes literally)!  Unlike other instructors, Linda always adds new songs but brings back old ones to increase variety.  I have to concentrate so hard on the moves that my mind does not wander and think about all of the other “to do’s” in life. She pushes me to improve and gives us many variations to meet our individual needs!  Linda taught me to bend my knees and move my hips which I only discovered at Zumba!  Linda cares about every individual, brings us all together and gives us a greater purpose which always involves helping others during her totally awesome events (I believe that she really is an event planner at heart!!).  Linda is the “sun in the middle of our Zumba universe” - she’s hot, fiery and gives us energy every class (sorry for the geeky science analogy :)!!  Thanks for all you do!!
Jennifer Rueckert

"Laugh & Encourage each other"

Never has a fitness class been as much fun as Linda makes this one. We work hard and SWEAT but also laugh and encourage each other. Great music and routines though no-one ever feels awkward doing their own thing as long as we MOVE👯💃💕 Syliva G

"Best Zumba Instructor"

Linda is THE BEST Zumba instructor - so full of energy - not to mentioned the sincere love and devotion she has for all her Zumba Zistas. Linda's class is so full of energy you can't help perform to your fullest no matter how you feel! You look forward to going to every class. Also, all the beautiful ladies that help Linda every day are full of love and caring also - just a wonderful environment to be around. Ann C

"Kicked my ass" 

Love the atmosphere... Kicked my ass and I'm going back for more!! Let's Zumba!!! Annie W

"Extraordinary Group of People"

I thought it was time for me to write my review. Pure Energy Fitness isn't just a business. It's family. It sounds cliche but it's true. This extraordinary group of people come together each and every week to show their support, their commitment, their compassion and love of zumba. As an attendee, they never make you feel alone, you feel welcomed. If you have a problem medically, they look after you, assess the situation and if they believe you are unable to continue, they will send you to seek medical attention. Pure Energy Fitness cannot be duplicated or replicated.  Jackie S

"Met Amazing Friends Through Zumba"

Zumba makes me so happy and I have met the most amazing friends through Zumba, it's fun, high positive energy and very addictive! I love Zumba and Zumba Love at The Pickering Soccer Dome! Mika M

"Boundless Caring for all Your Students" 

Hi Linda. I just wanted to thank you for being you. Your boundless caring for all of your students - Zistas - and the community and your apparent endless energy. Without you, many, many woman would be unmotivated, feel lacklustre, have no energy...the list is endless. You give all your time to so many...you give your students a feeling of purpose...well, me at least. I am slowly starting to accept and like myself and it is because of you...and all the ladies I have the pleasure of dancing with. Not sure where I would be today without your classes and special events that you tirelessly organize. You are one very special person that I am proud to say I know.  Ann C

"I am on cloud nine whenever I come to your class" 

I thought I'd tell you "AGAIN" how much I enjoy your classes and I honestly look forward to coming every Tuesday and Friday.  I have been with you now for little over a year.  I can't believe how fast time has flown and I am still excited about Zumba !You are truly inspirational and I am on cloud nine whenever I come to your class.  If I could Zumba everyday, I would.Thank you for inspiring me and making me smile and for changing my life with Zumba. Your #1 fan, Doreen F

"A major stress reliever & I have been losing weight" 

"I love Zumba because I learned to dance!!! which was a big one. And I have made amazing friends, it makes me happy, a major stress reliever, and I have been losing weight! <3 yay zumba" - Jessy M

"You will not be sorry"

I could write a whole book about how awesome and positive life changing Pure Energy Fitness is...but instead, I invite anyone to see for themselves...you will not be sorry.  Teresa N

"Awesome Instructor"

"Awesome instructor!  You're the best Linda.  Zumba is SOOOO much fun and a great workout.  I feel fantastic after every class." Wendy D

"Best Group of Women" 

Best group of women I have ever been around ! Once you start going to Linda's Zumba classes it's just impossible to miss even one class ! Great Thanks to all the Beautiful and strong ladies in the group that have welcomed me with great smiles and support ! You Ladies Rock ! Elena N

"Prepare to have a blast" 

Linda is an amazing Zumba instructor. I always leave each class feeling happy from the choice of her songs and the routines are so inspiring. Prepare to have a blast with an amazing group of women.
Love me my Zumba class Lydia P

"Amazing Team" 

Amazing team led by Linda Raponi a fun but serious Zumba/Fitness guru who knows how to get the best out of you while having a fun time. The hour just flies by. Doug T

"It allows me to remember how I was before my depression" 

"Zumba makes me feel confident. It allows me to remember how I was before my depression.  Having joined Zumba definitely brings many positive effect on me physically and mentally. BUT I have to give tons of credit to Linda who also brings lots of positive & fun attitudes and it's contagious!!!"  BIG thank you to Linda! Ann L

"It is my happy hour workout" 

Best Zumba class ever. So much fun.. Linda is awesome and the people are so welcoming.
It is my happy hour workout ​ Sue K

"Very welcoming, fun, upbeat group of ladies" 

Just started class....very welcoming, fun, upbeat group of ladies. Loved it❤️  Elizabeth C

"Amazing Instructor" 

Linda an amazing instructor, with a HUGE HEART! One of the best! Mae H

"Grateful for your Friendship"

This year (2012) we are opening a woman's center in Cusco. The center will be for at risk girls, and girls from a variety of orphanages in Cusco, Peru. Most of those girls were removed from their homes because of horrible abuse. The center will offer computers, guitar classes, salsa classes, cosmetics workshops, artisan workshops and love and support to these girls. 
 
It will cost us roughly $4000 to operate the center from September to June of next year. That is the same amount of money more or less that we raised with your Zumba Night. We can do it so cheap because nobody is making any money here. 
 
So basically, because of you and your team, there will be almost one hundred girls from different institutions who will have a safe place to go and learn the same kind of things that every girl deserves to learn. 
 
That is why I find it so hard to express to you how grateful I am for your friendship.   Andrew McLaughlin, Learning For Hope

"There is always an opportunity to push yourself or not, no pressure or competitiveness...just do you."

Linda strives for excellence and the classes offered have also transformed over time, there is always an opportunity to push yourself or not, no pressure or competitiveness...just do you.  After watching the introductory videos for Strong by Zumba, it was something I never expected to do.  I tried it and still do it.  Strong kicks your butt, but the sense of accomplishment everyone feels at the end is worth it.
 
My friends call it a cult J, and I am so very grateful for belonging to such a wonderful community of people.  I have two brothers in my family and now I have a whole community of Zistas who are the sisters I never had.  During bad times they've listened to my woes, we've had bitch sessions, we've laughed, provided positive vibes and have had many memorable moments together.  Taken soooo many pictures. They are supportive, funny, accepting, beautiful, uplifting souls…free with hugs & kisses, a bit raunchy at times, classy and so much more.
 
I went from wearing track pants to wearing tights and shredded t-shirts (I even bought my own pink fabric sheers!).  If you start off a class not feeling great, you feel so much better afterwards.  I go up and dance at the front or on the stage, do things that were outside of my comfort zone (finished the obstacle race Mud Hero, where I almost drowned on the slide).  I've made new friends, gotten fitter and the endorphin effect after classes are addictive.  I was inspired to look into the practice of yoga, completed 200 hours of teacher training and now am a certified RYT. 
 
Advice for the newbies to remember:
There is no judgement
Support is available in abundance
You are part of a welcoming community
Go to the events, you will have a good time
No one is focusing on how you look - we are all in it for the dancing and the sweat
Just do you…no one else can be you except you and you don't need to be anyone else
You might not get every move…so what?
Someone may try to hump you…just roll with it
You will learn to love sweaty hugs
Smile often
Feel the beat
Have FUN
Embrace the experience, there's nothing like it!  

I love my PEF family and the community of awesome people that comprise it.
Winel H.

"No one is judging me" 

I started Zumba back in January 2010. I initially wanted to just try it out. Well after my first class I was addicted. Believe it or not, I am actually a really shy person. I always hated being in front of the class. Now, that's that first place I go. I have made great new friends and although I am still a little shy I can be crazy in the class and feel like NO ONE is judging me it's FABULOUS. I have to thank Linda for her great enthusiasm and energy. She makes me want to shake my bootie harder and she definitely keeps me coming back for more.
Who would have thought that working out could be soooooo much fun!"  Julie

"Not you average fitness centre"

Pure Energy Fitness is not your average fitness centre. It is a community of individuals who genuinely support, encourage and care about each other. The PEF team helps everyone work towards their fitness goals and they truly care about the whole person. It feels like family. Nancy

"Welcoming and inspirational"

Linda and crew are so welcoming and inspirational❣️ Such a great atmosphere, always a lot of fun. No pressure, everyone works out at their own comfort level. I also admire all of the year round charity work this club has organized over the years. There are also a lot of amazing social events in addition to the classes to enjoy. 😀 Elizabeth R

"Amazing class"

Amazing class. Great instructor. Beautiful individuals. love them all. Carol D

"Positive leaders with awesome music"

Fantastic, inspiring, positive leaders with awesome music and a great group of friends that know how to have fun. 😁🤗 Kerri Lynn

"We are a family supporting one another"

Amazing classes, wonderful instructors and we are a family supporting one another. Judy M

"Amazing and wonderful group"

An amazing and wonderful group of Fitness promoters!
Always coming up with fun activities to keep us motivated! Etelka

"A whole of sanity during the pandemic"

Fantastic team, during the pandemic offering to essential workers free yoga on Monday March 23 and free Pilates on Friday this week. A whole lot of sanity during these challenging time. Awesome Pure Energy’s Fitness crew stepping it up a notch and doing the goodwill for essential workers! Ingrid
 


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"No judgement"

Great place to be yourself. No judgement, great energy and movement. No experience required, just the desire to be active and make new friends along the way. Lyne C

"Love this class"

Love this class. Awesome instructors, great people. ❤️ Josie M


 
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"Dripping wet workout"

I recommend it all from the ladies’ smiles to the dripping wet workout...I love it👍Zumba became my Vitamin for every week! Tina M

"Awesome classes"

Awesome classes. High energy & Linda is on Fire!!! Great music .... Franca M

"Linda and her team made me feel so welcome from day one! I have made lots of life long friends as it is not just a fitness class, it is a real community."

When I moved from downtown Toronto to Pickering a year ago, I really wanted to find another Zumba class that I really loved and lucky me, I found Pure Energy Fitness.
Linda and her team made me feel so welcome from day one! I have made lots of life long friends as it is not just a fitness class, it is a real community . This class is high energy and you will, I guarantee, leave with a smile on your face , and you will look forward to the next class.
This is not just a zumba class, there is toning , and also Pilates with Mika and Yoga with Kathia. I started Pilates in the new year and my core and I are feeling so thankful!
Throughout this pandemic and crazy world Pure Energy Fitness has switched to zoom classes and we are all so grateful for the opportunity to keep up our fitness levels and connect with our fitness family and this is what we are a FAMILY!
I think that is enough from me and I invite you to come along and give it a try... you won't regret it 😎
Anna R

Thank you, thank you, thank you for offering such a great workouts in the park!

I just found Pure Energy Fitness as I’m not ready to return to indoor fitness centres yet and I was searching for something new! I am soooo happy to have found this group- I LOVE their outside park option. They have a great energy and are very welcoming. Pure Energy Fitness is exactly what I needed after months of closed gyms! Thank you, thank you, thank you for offering such a great workouts in the park! If you have considered joining them for a class- don’t wait - just do it- you won’t regret it! Lisa P T

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