Basically, all my life I took dance lessons. When I moved to Louisville, I was hoping to find some group or studio where I could continue dancing as an adult. I have had a hard time finding a studio that is just classes. At my age (26), the last think I want to be a part of is a dance recital. I just want to take a weekly class to keep up my technique and get good exercise.
The average dance lesson is about $15. If you go weekly, that ends up being a good chunk of change at the end of the month. Since my husband and I just bought a house, we are trying to be more fiscal. Needless to say, $60 a month for dance lessons is not in our budget. Therefore, when I saw a Groupon for 2 months of unlimited Jazzercise for $29, I jumped on it.
Honestly, I have made fun of Jazzercise. However, my neighbor told me it was fun and beggers can't be choosers. So I mustard up the courage and went to my first class this past Wednesday evening in the MidCity Mall.
The facilities are limited; one long room with no mirrors. Each class is similar, but the instructors vary. To my surprise, there were women of all ages (no men were there) and the class was packed. The instructor was very fit which always helps. I could never understand going to a workout class where the instructor is chunkier than me. If they do this class a couple times a week, every week, then something is obviously not working (cough cough: YMCA downtown). The Jazzercise instructor was very enthusiastic and even though at one time she said, "Let's get out boogie on!" I couldn't help but like her and laugh at her jokes. The class got me sweating, but I was not sore at all the next day, which is a bad sign since I hadn't officially worked out in 2 weeks.
All in all, it was one of those activities that made me miss my girlfriends from home. If you're in your 20's, go to Jazzercise with a few friends and then walk to Avalon for a martini afterward. That is probably the only way it would be truly worth your time. If you're older and like dancing, go for it! Th music was uplifting, the instructor was great, and it is a good way to get moving. It is more aerobics than dance so if you have a decent dance background I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for your dance-fix.
Photo: Flickr Heatherink
Maggie moved to Louisville from Buffalo, NY in Dec. 2009. She has also lived in London, Chicago, and Louisiana. Find out more about her business Weekend Wedding Warrior, LLC and her private counseling practice.
