Aerobics Instructor (Tie): Jaimi Ellison and Lee Pate
These leading aerobics ladies, Jaimi Ellison and Lee Pate, are renowned throughout the county for conducting challenging and satisfying routines in a fun and friendly environment. Jaimi Ellison founded Santa Cruz CORE Fitness + Rehab back in 2009. She plays upbeat and rhythmic music, truly in tune with her students, as she caters these playlists according to their age groups. Sensitive to every student’s needs, Ellison constantly modifies routines so that students of all fitness levels feel welcome. Miracle worker Lee Pate teaches dance techniques that work wonders at Lifestyle Fitness, Inc., DanceSynergy, and Coastal Vibe Dance Company, and has been teaching in the Kinesiology department at San Jose State University for nearly two decades. Take note: Pate learned Zumba from the founder of the Latin aerobic dance workout himself: Alberto Perez. A good duo, indeed. To see Ellison in action, visit her at Santa Cruz CORE Fitness + Rehab, located at 317 Potrero St Ste C, Santa Cruz, 425-9500. To learn even more about Lee, visit zumbasantacruz.com. | Cynthia E. Orgel
Runners-up Joy Smith, Gloria Walker
Personal Trainer: Jaimi Ellison
Ellison, who tied in a win for Best Aerobics Instructor, also nabbed the Personal Trainer
spot. An avid downhill mountain biker, swimmer, snowboarder, surfer, and cross-country skier, Ellison has tried and conquered just about every thrill-seeking and adrenaline-pumping sport. Incidentally, she gets her inspiration from indoors, admitting “I like to use my time in the gym to perform better outside.” Visit her at Santa Cruz CORE Fitness + Rehab, located at 317 Potrero St Ste C, Santa Cruz, 425-9500. | CEO
Runners-up Rocky Snyder, Demetreus Hunter