IN the second week of the Fitbeat Challenge, Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation Chief Executive Officer Esther L. Muna was challenged to exercise through dance.
Challenge accepted.
The Zumba group is challenging officials to participate in one of their classes, or make a donation to the Saipan Fitbeat Lions Club or any charity of their choosing.
CHCC CEO Muna decided to not only join the Zumba class on Wednesday, but to also donate to a good cause, the Autism Society of the CNMI.
“I chose that group because we’re really seeing parents struggle with it, and most especially the kids, so whatever we can do to help,” she said.
After working out for half an hour with the Zumba group, Muna said, “There are always different ways to work out. I know that there are a lot of groups here in the CNMI that are doing everything possible to get healthy and get fit, including the governor.”
When she first received the invitation from the group, she was hesitant at first, Muna said.
“But then I thought, I have to walk the talk,” she said, noting her profession as a health official.
She said she was happy to also see other members of the CHCC team partake in the Zumba class.
“We have to do what we’re always telling everybody to do. What Covid-19 has taught us is that — or at least showed us — there is a need to get healthy, so that even with infectious diseases, with the right treatment, we can combat it,” she said.
“It was so cool because I’m in there my family. I’m glad that they’re taking some wellness time. It is necessary to take some time off for yourself. It’s good to do our part also, and I’m glad that this group is doing that, too.”
The chosen challengers can take on the challenge on a date of their choosing, joining either the core class at 5:30 p.m. or the Zumba class at 6:30 p.m.
Roughly 40 participants join each session every day.
Organizer Irene N. Holl encourages community members to join the group, or any Zumba group, and be active.
“This is a fun way to exercise, so please come and join us, any day of the week,” she said.
CHCC CEO Esther Muna joins Fitbeat for a Zumba class on Wednesday at Garapan Central Park.
CHCC CEO Esther Muna, third right, poses for a photo with CHCC staff and Fit-to-Lead representatives.
CHCC CEO Esther Muna, center, poses for a photo with CHCC staff.
