About
Re: You Dance Fitness aims to make fitness fun with dance inspired classes designed to nurture the heart, mind, & body. The supportive Re: You community is here to inspire and empower you to live a happier, healthier & fuller life.
As part of the Re: You team, I bring a wealth of dance experience to my classes. I trained with the Russian Ballet school of New York for several years and then switched to the Ballroom and Latin Ballroom dance world. I have additionally studied and trained in most genres including HipHop, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, etc. Currently I am a certified LaBlast Ballroom Fitness Instructor (dance fitness program created by Dancing with the Stars pro Louis van Amstel using ballroom and latin dance moves without a partner). I also continue to train and perform in HipHop and Latin Ballroom. I have performed and competed in multiple venues in Kansas City, New York, and Providence, Rhode Island.
One thing about me, I am always willing to help out and go the extra mile for the love of dance and others. Three words to describe me are caring, optimistic, and creative. My goal for classes is that my students will learn the true skill of dance and in the process become more fit, more flexible, more agile, more graceful, and more confident.
I love dancing because it is my way of expressing myself and using my creativity. I love teaching because I can share my passion with others and help them build confidence to learn how to express themselves in their own way. The most satisfying thing is when a student finally gets a move that they have been working ages on. I love when people ask questions because then they are getting what they are coming to class for: learning!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When working with a new student, I like to talk with them to find out what their goals are for taking dance classes. The first class I generally give them a sampling of what is possible and base the rest of the classes based on how they react. In my fitness classes, I break down the basic moves more if there is a new student and also discuss more about the different dance styles.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been taking dance for over 20 years. I have trained at the Russian Ballet School in New York. I then found Ballroom and Latin Dance and fell in love with it and started training and competing. I have also studied various genres including HipHop, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, and Musical Theatre.
I became a certified LaBlast Ballroom Fitness Instructor in January of 2017 and continue to keep my certification updated.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I am very flexible and willing to work with students regarding pricing. I have a drop in price for private classes and also offer a session rate that will save you some money.
In terms of fitness classes or group classes those prices are set by Re: You Dance Fitness. There are punchcards and memberships available to save money on the drop in price.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching Ballroom dance lessons to fill in for my competitive dance partner due to his work schedule. I am a high school teacher, so teaching is a natural part of who I am. After he returned, I wanted to continue to teach, but also wanted to expand what I teach. That is when I decided to become a certified LaBlast instructor so that way I could share my love of dance with more people. I love LaBlast because you get the joy of the ballroom and latin dance steps, without worrying about whether or not you have a good partner. Don't get me wrong I still love the ballroom and latin world too!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with various types of students ranging in ages from 7- 70, both male and female. I have worked with experienced dancers as well as those who have never danced before.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am very fond of how much progress one of my students has made. She comes to class every time with a huge smile on her face. She now asks questions about improving her technique, whereas when she first started she would just walk around to the music. She has become a leader in the class and she is always willing to give people advice. This makes me extremely happy because it is my goal as an instructor to empower people to take dance and make it their own and to be confident in what they do.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't be afraid to shop around. If you are not happy with how you are doing, do not feel like you are hurting someone's feelings because you stop taking their classes. It just means it isn't the right fit and that is okay!
Don't be afraid to try new styles. If you've been doing the same style all throughout your life, it's time to open your mind to a new style to dive in.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is your goal for taking dance classes?
What kind of learner are you?
Where do you want to be 6 months from now in terms of your dancing?
How much are you willing to practice outside of the class?