Reiko was born and raised in a beach town in Japan, where her love for the ocean and surfing became a central part of her life. She married her husband, a U.S. Navy serviceman, and together they have built a loving family with five beautiful daughters. After having four daughters back-to-back and stepping away from her active lifestyle, Reiko faced significant weight gain and felt desperate for change. In 2007, she took her first steps toward transformation by going to the gym on Yokosuka Naval Base, where she discovered Zumba Fitness. It was love at first dance, sparking a journey that has defined her life ever since.
Reiko became a certified Zumba instructor in 2008 in Japan and has been teaching non-stop since then, even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her classes have inspired countless individuals to embrace health and fitness through dance, building a sense of community and resilience. Her love for dance remains a central part of her life, and she cherishes every moment dancing with her daughters and sharing joyful experiences with them.
In July 2024, Reiko expanded her expertise by becoming a certified Tropixx coach, further broadening her fitness repertoire. Her dance background also includes performing Tahitian dance with Ote’a Kia Mana at Yokosuka Naval Base under the guidance of Uncle Dennis, showcasing her deep connection to movement, culture, and joy.
Reiko’s motto is: “Dance is the joy of movement and the heart of life.”