As an avid long distance runner and cyclist I found working out in the gym to be boring and uninspiring. In the winter of 2006, my co-worker had recommended salsa as a means to keep me fit and get me excited about exercise during the winter months. I balked at the idea, thinking there was no way I'd be coordinated enough to even break a sweat. I decided to give it a try. That is, once he told me that girls out number guys at least 3 to 1.

Even though I never heard or danced to salsa before, I was entranced by the awesome beats. Having Joe as an instructor didn’t hurt either, he made the steps that much easier. Not only did I find myself more confident on the dance floor, but my footwork became faster. I found myself salsa-ing during my races.

On January 2008, I joined PCD recital team. Since then, salsa is no longer my past time but, my passion. Practices twice a week were tough but, I learned so much and being with the other performers of the dance company gave me a great sense of camaraderie. There is nothing greater than the rush that comes after dedicating nights to practicing, performing step after step, and then finally dancing with the best, performing in front of hundreds of strangers. Every experience is worthwhile but, it doesn’t compare, not even to running the New York City Marathon. That’s why I’m a Piel Caneal Dancer!