FiTMe Studio and ZUMBA!

Continuing my quest in showcasing the variety of fitness classes in Louisville, I recently tried my very first Zumba class with Jennifer O'Brien at FiTMe Studio.  From the Zumba website,  "Zumba^® exercise classes are "fitness-parties" that blend upbeat world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography, for a total-body workout that feels like a celebration."  That is definitely what I experienced at FITME Studio.

FiTMe Studio was easy to find - right off of Westport on Bayberry place. It is next to Jennifer's other business, Jennifer's Academy of Dance. I was greeted by the very friendly and energetic Jennifer when I arrived, still feeling a bit nervous.  The other students said I did not have anything to worry about to just have fun.  Her studio had everything it needed for her class to be successful - drinking fountain, bathrooms, towels, and the room temperature starting out brisk. Before we were done with the warm-up songs, however,  the fans in the room were turned on because it warms up that quick! Jennifer also mentioned at the beginning to take drinks as needed,  modify the moves as needed (which she showed throughout the class), and to have fun with hootin' and hollerin'.

Jennifer's Zumba is more fitness based, but with plenty of dancing. Being a non-dancer with my 2 left feet, I felt like I had a chance in the class. We did BURPEES! I love burpees, but she did show a modification for burpees so everyone still got a good workout either way. I enjoyed how there was a dance routine for each song. I can see how if you become a regular, you can be comfortable with the choreograph and push yourself a little harder. Jennifer did a great job leading the dance workout to know the next step coming.  I was able to watch a few of the regulars too, to stay with the group with the moves. Jennifer was also very enthusiast throughout the whole workout encouraging us to keep pushing ourselves. Before, I knew it, the lights were turned off for the cool-down songs.

 Jennifer adds a new song with the dance routine every few weeks to keep things interesting and to challenge her students. Her other instructors are more dance based versus fitness based. For instance, there would be more salsa moves which gives Zumba just a little bit different feel. So when you are trying out Zumba try a few different instructors to see what fits you best.

Zumba is for every fitness level, all ages and sizes. I definitely feel like I got a great workout and was sore from it. On the FitMe website, it describes itself as fun and laidback atmosphere. I definitely got this feel when I was there for the first time. It was almost like a Cheers feeling where everyone knew your name.

FitMe Studio also offers R.I.P.P.E.D., W.I.C.K.E.D, and Insanity classes.
The classes are very affordable with drop-in class for only $8 , buy a 5 class pass for $30, or a monthly pass for $45 - even discounts for students and military. There is also a Black Light Zumba class that is offered once a month for only $3! I would definitely be up for trying this class out with some friends. Follow FitMe Studio on Facebook to stay up to date on classes and reminded about the Black Light Zumba.

I highly recommend checking out FitMe Studio to try out the Zumba classes. I am checking out the Insanity class and will report back to you soon. As my journey to exploring all things fitness in the Louisville area continues.

Check out my reviews on B. You's B.silque class and Clayton Sallee's static trapeze class too.