Stepping into Fly Dance Fitness for their “Throw Down” class is unlike any fitness experience you’ve encountered. Forget your preconceived notions of a typical workout – this is an immersive, high-energy dance party disguised as a fitness class. Imagine walking into a room pulsating with loud music, vibrant red and strobe lights flashing, all under the shimmer of a disco ball. Immediately, the welcoming atmosphere envelops you as women, ready to move, offer high-fives and words of encouragement. This isn’t just a class; it’s a community built on the joy of movement and the power of music. At the heart of it all is the exhilarating blend of Fly And Dance that makes Fly Dance Fitness truly unique.
Girls strike a pose during Throw Down at Fly Dance Fitness
Energetic women striking dynamic dance poses in a Fly Dance Fitness class, highlighting the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
Leigh Hix, the instructor who guided my first fly and dance journey, has been a cornerstone of Fly Dance Fitness since its inception in 2014. Her background in cheer and dance seamlessly transitioned into a decade-long passion for teaching dance-based fitness. “This is simply the best place to be in Sarasota,” Leigh shared, her enthusiasm contagious. “It’s the incredible energy and personalities of everyone here that make it so special. Seeing all those smiling, sweaty faces is what it’s all about.” Her words perfectly encapsulate the spirit of Fly Dance Fitness – it’s not just about the workout; it’s about the people and the shared experience.
As the music ignited the room, the class, predominantly women but welcoming to all, instantly shifted into dance-ready stances. Leigh started by introducing a fresh routine, designed to be learned and performed at both the beginning and end of the session. For the remaining 55 minutes, we were swept away through a series of familiar routines, each set to increasingly upbeat and fast-paced tracks. Even as a newcomer struggling to master every step, the sheer act of moving, grooving, and attempting to keep pace was an incredible workout in itself. This is where the ‘fly’ in fly and dance truly comes alive – it’s about letting loose, feeling the music, and enjoying the freedom of movement.
Forget the rigid structure of traditional dance classes. Leigh’s teaching style is refreshingly different from the drill-sergeant approach. There’s no shouting of counts or pressure to be perfect. Instead, she fosters an environment where students can absorb the choreography at their own rhythm. The focus required to follow the routines is a welcome distraction, cleverly diverting your mind from the fact that you’re engaged in a serious calorie-burning workout – and yes, plenty of booty shaking! Amy Buck, the owner of Fly Dance Fitness, confirmed the intensity, stating that a single class can torch up to 800 calories. This potent combination of fly and dance is not only fun but incredibly effective.
Fly Dance Fitness class participants burning calories and having fun during a high-energy dance routine.
A group of women energetically participating in a Fly Dance Fitness class, highlighting the calorie-burning potential and joyful atmosphere.
The sense of community extended beyond the workout itself. After class, the participants lingered, chatting and connecting, further solidifying the welcoming and supportive vibe. Having experienced various fitness classes, I’ve often found them to be competitive and isolating. Fly Dance Fitness was a refreshing contrast – a space brimming with positive energy and genuine camaraderie. This community aspect enhances the appeal of fly and dance, transforming it from just a workout into a social and emotional uplift.
Amy Buck’s vision for Fly Dance Fitness stemmed from her own experiences in conventional gyms. Recognizing the monotony and often intimidating atmosphere of traditional workout spaces, she sought to create something different. She understood that many women desired a workout environment that was fun, liberating, and free from judgment.
“I wanted to feel like I was going clubbing at 9 a.m. on a Monday, minus the alcohol, but with all the sweat and none of the judgment,” Amy explained. “We dim the lights, turn on the club lights and disco balls, crank up the music, and get our workout in!” And she’s right – there were moments during the class where I genuinely felt like I was dancing in a music video, embracing my inner “video vixen.” It’s safe to say I’ll be returning for more. Newcomers can experience the magic of fly and dance with a special offer: a free class within a week of their first visit. And who knows, maybe those newfound moves will even make their debut on the dance floor outside the studio!
Fly Dance Fitness is located at 999 Cattlemen Road, Unit F, Sarasota. Explore the fly and dance experience further by visiting their website to sign up for classes, or call (941) 378-1359. New clients can enjoy a class for $15, including a free follow-up class within a week.
