After several unsuccessful attempts at a gym membership, I decided I needed to exercise in a way that I knew I would enjoy, instead of feeling like a gerbil on a wheel. I have always loved to dance and had decent training all the way through my teenage years, but I hadn't stepped into a dance studio in 15 years and let's just say I'm pretty out of shape! But I thought, this is New York, right? There must be a million dance studios where an adult semi-beginner can have a myriad of choices. In a city where professionals abound and dance studios seem geared toward producing future Broadway or Radio City performers, however, I had a hard time finding a studio that was truly a non-intimidating environment for adult beginners who just wanted to enjoy dancing for some exercise and self-expression. Then I stumbled upon SHOCKra Studios. I was so relieved that everyone else was just like me - regular people with regular jobs who just wanted to try something different. Not only did I feel 100% comfortable from the moment I stepped in, and not only was I impressed with how easy-going yet professional the instructors were, and not only is it everything I wanted in a dance studio, but I've also lost weight since I started class! The instructor (and owner), Jessica, is so engaging and energetic. She's really good at helping you improve your technique, no matter what level you're at. Our classes have a mix of people, from zero dance experience to former dancers like myself who just haven't done it in ages. Everybody loves it and everybody improves. It's non-intimidating and tons of fun, and it's the highlight of my week!
Pros: Class size, professional instruction, comfortable environment
Cons: haven't found any yet!
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