Fitness Roadtest: Subsdance

Posted on 30 July, 2014

Last time I hit the dance floor, it prompted the DJ of the club to film it and upload my efforts to Facebook, in a charming short film entitled “white girl wasted”. I’d had two wines. Seriously. Safe to say, I needed all the help I could get.

Luckily, I was blessed with the opportunity to get help from some of the best in the business – the energetic and talented team at Subsdance. I happily agreed to trial their “Fit Fun Fiesta” – a four week term, consisting of three different classes: Reggaeton Fit, Dancehall Fit & Core and Zumba.

The classes are held at Monkeybar, which is great for two reasons. Firstly, it’s a nightclub so you feel like you’re in a Beyonce or Britney music video. Secondly, there are no mirrors. Not only does that help you to indulge in the aforementioned fantasy, but it also means that you don’t have to look at yourself in the mirror. Now, if you’re like me and you’re feeling a bit self conscious, this is a blessing.

Instead, what’s in front of you is the beautiful instructors. My goodness, are they talented. Alyson and Kirstie taught the Reggaeton and Dancehall classes respectively, and although I unfortunately missed out on the Zumba class because of a cold, I’ve had the pleasure of watching Julia, the instructor, and can attest to the fact that she’s incredible (Editor’s note: me too!) The ladies have contagious energy and are really good at getting the class moving.

To my surprise (and relief) I found that the classes were less about mastering a specific dance, and more about fitness in general. While it’s clear that the routines are carefully choreographed (and to awesome music, might I add), there’s a big focus on resistance. Reggaeton Fit had an arms track that left my limbs feeling like limp noodles, and a tough tush track with squats and leg lifts. Dancehall Fit & Core, on the other hand, had a big focus on abs, incorporating toe touches, crunches, Russian twists… you name it. I was sore for days – in the best way possible.

There was only a small group of girls in each class, and most of them seemed to be new to the classes. That’s the benefit of enrolling in a four-week term – you’re more than likely to be in a class with other beginners. Everyone seemed just a nervous as me, but after five minutes were well into the swing of things. The way that the instructors teach is so friendly and encouraging that you feel comfortable enough to let loose and have some fun.

Subsdance’s instructors are all friendly, talented and encouraging.

I’ve never been much of a dancer, and was a bit nervous about my ability. But most of the moves were fairly simple and didn’t require too much coordination – trust me, if I can do it then you can. And don’t be afraid to go it alone! There’s something liberating about not knowing anyone and being able to relax and do your thing, plus it’s an excellent way to meet new friends.

I had such a fun time at Subsdance. Whether you’re a dancer or not, you’re bound to have a ball and gain some fitness in the process. I left feeling confident and dare I say it, a little bit sexy!

YOUR SPECIAL OFFER

Subsdance is happy to offer HerCanberra readers one free Fun Fit Fiesta class of their choice. To be eligible, you must mention HerCanberra when you book by emailing info@subsdance.com.au.

the essentials

What: Subsdance Dance Studio’s Fun Fit Fiesta
Where: Monkeybar, 128 Bunda Street, Civic
When: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights: check the timetable for details.
How much: Monthly Challenge $150 (3 dance fitness classes per week for a month)
Web: www.subsdance.com.au