Daily Inspiration: Meet Kyra Ruiz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyra Ruiz.

Hi Kyra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, dance has always been a constant in my life. Whether it was taking tiny tots classes at age 4, competing in jazz solos at age 9, or being captain of my high school’s varsity dance team – I’ve always relied on dance. I grew up at a competitive studio where I trained in a wide range of styles including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, and Contemporary. Being a versatile dancer has paved the way for so many incredible experiences. I’m beyond grateful that my family supported me to continue pursuing dance throughout college and thereafter, but never in my life did I dream of building a career through dancing for Disney, the NBA, and the NFL.

Without dance, I honestly don’t know where I would be. Dancers are athletes and with the sport comes cross-training. I had to strength train to keep my stamina up which led me to realize the similarities between dance and fitness. As a dancer, I am highly aware of how the body moves in space which translates well into everyday activities such as balance and coordination to move efficiently with the reduced risk of injury. Having a dance background gave me the discipline to further my career in becoming a fitness professional, and I now train full-time as a certified personal trainer while also coaching dancers wanting to go pro. I’ve learned so much from this art form beyond what meets the eye and it has given me the confidence to command the space in any room. It’s a testament to how the arts can shape not only your body but also your mind and interpersonal skills. What I love most about my passion for dance goes beyond just the movement itself. It’s the community and opportunities it has presented in my life, but most importantly, the relationships and connections I’ve cherished over the years that continue to keep dance close to my heart.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’m sure if you were to ask any creative pursuing their passion, they’d be equipped with a long list of trials and tribulations that led them to where they are today. For me – the pressure of the entertainment industry has always been an uphill battle. Building a healthy relationship with my body image, while feeling the stress to always appear “presentable,” is an ongoing conflict that many athletes, including myself, face daily. In my first few years of dancing professionally, understanding how to balance this high expectation of perfection was my greatest struggle.

One of the toughest challenges of being a dancer in the Pro Sports World is the annual requirement to re-audition and compete for your spot. The uncertainty makes it mentally demanding, as you’re aware of what’s at stake. Just like any athlete – you have to work just as hard in the off-season to perform your best. This has taught me to never get comfortable and there is always room for growth. Dancing for a career vs. dancing for fun is a love-hate relationship but the risk is well worth the reward. You just learn to accept rejection and use that fuel as fire for the next opportunity that comes your way.

After 3 years of dancing for the NBA, I suffered from a shoulder injury that meant a heartbreaking pause to my dance career. I went from denial to acceptance, to motivation, and back to denial once again. I moved back home and had to self-reflect to figure out what my next move was which led me to beginning rehab on my shoulder. I learned a new wave of patience through consistent training, and it gave me a sense of hope that I could continue doing what I love at a high-level injury free one day. The trainers and physical therapists I surrounded myself with were beyond supportive… and eventually, I felt motivated to use my experience and skills to be a trainer myself. I physically had to start from ground zero, but mentally, I had to put in even more effort to find the confidence to dance again. During this time of recovery, I began coaching other dancers for their auditions and when my shoulder was fully recovered, I was able to dive into my personal training career. Since pursuing my career in fitness, I’ve been able to form many beautiful connections with clients and take pride in helping others achieve their own fitness goals.

I still feel the pressure I used to feel in my early days as an NBA dancer and the thought of another injury continues to weigh on me as I move into my new role as an NFL Cheerleader… but I am extremely proud of my resilience and am looking forward to what this next chapter will hold.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Working in the entertainment industry is equal parts rewarding and challenging– and all of that comes with the fact that we often wear many hats! Professional dancers are often simultaneously balancing full-time work, school, families, and other dance projects. I’m proud to currently call myself a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and NFL Cheerleader. As a trainer by day and dancer by night, I’m happy to say that both roles help others to find more confidence in what they do. I specialize in getting dancers ready for their professional careers, along with functional strength training for the general population. I think what sets me apart is my ability to connect with people from so many different walks of life. In my career, I’ve consistently found great fulfillment in building authentic relationships, regardless of the diverse backgrounds and identities of those I work with or perform for.

After double-majoring in Public Health and Dance at UCI, I immediately began pursuing my dream to be an NBA dancer. Since then, I’ve had many accomplishments. Some of the most rewarding moments I’m proud of are:

Winning the NBA Championship in 2022

Traveling to China to represent the Laker Girls at the NBA 5v5 event

2018 NBA All Star Weekend

Coming out of retirement. Twice.

Hosting my first community event with Nike

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
My career as a Pro dancer has been the most fulfilling ride– and something that many people don’t know is that it took multiple no’s to get my first yes as a Laker Girl back in 2017. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel disappointed or discouraged through a few years of rejection, but it truly gave me the drive to continue working towards my goal of joining an impactful organization like the Los Angeles Lakers. I spent years preparing, sharpening up my interview skills, connecting with other pro-dancers, and on my third try I finally made the team. I guess that’s why they say “3rd times the charm!”.

Overall, I wouldn’t trade my journey for the world. My coaches have shaped me into who I am today by implementing a growth mindset in which I am forever grateful. I’ve learned how to carry myself as a professional and I know that whatever life throws at me, I’ll be able to handle it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyyyrrraaa/

Image Credits
Joshua Leung J Diaz