I started dancing at Encore in December when it first opened. I was intrigued by the phrase “dance fitness.” I have always enjoyed dance but am far from a “dancer.” I’d never taken ballet, burlesque, vertical, or aerial. After looking at the different membership packages, I went with the unlimited package, and it has been well worth it. I often take more than one class a day…sometimes up to four!
Four months after joining Encore, I have transformed myself physically, mentally, and emotionally. As a school teacher and a full time grad student, I was constantly under a lot of stress.
All of the classes I have tried at Encore are fun yet challenging, but some really test your physical (and mental) strength. The first time I took vertical and aerial, I felt so weak compared to some of the other women. However, I kept going back, determined to become stronger. Every time I went to class I accomplished something I wasn’t able to do before. At first, I could barely hang from the silk tissu, but within weeks I was able to climb all the way to the top! I feel more empowered and confident in myself. My anxiety and stress levels are now much lower and my flexibility and physical strength have drastically improved. Ballet has toned up my legs and butt. Every class has contributed to muscle definition in my abs. My upper body and back have become so much stronger than I ever thought possible.
Since I’ve joined Encore, I’ve cancelled all but one of my gym memberships, and that’s only because that particular gym has a pool. I’ve been much happier and I feel like I have something to look forward to every day. The staff, instructors, and other members are so nice and encouraging. I was impressed with how quickly the talented instructors learned my name and would take note of my accomplishments. The facility itself is so beautiful and special. I’ve made new friends and have learned so much from dance. When I show up to class, the worries of my day-to-day just slip away. There’s no cattiness or pressure to do anything. Just show up, learn, and have fun. I’ve now committed to dance as my form of physical fitness and it has changed my attitude towards exercise. Before, I would do it because I felt I had to. Now, I exercise for fun.
For more information, please call 661-286-1136 and visit www.encoredancefitness.com. Encore Dance Fitness is located at 25834 McBean Parkway in Valencia.