I was pretty apprehensive about taking my first Jazzercise class. Like many people, my first thoughts were of leg warmers and leotards. And if I was going to squeeze in the time to exercise, I wanted it to be a good workout, where I felt like I burned off at least some of the calories from the M&Ms I was sure to eat later that day. Also, I have never taken a dance class, and have had some bad experiences with dance-type classes at regular gyms. Well, to my surprise, I was worried for no reason – I absolutely loved Jazzercise.
From the moment I walked into the Jacksonville Beach Jazzercise studio, I could feel the energy. Music was playing, and everyone was smiling and excited to get started. It was a very different vibe than when I arrive at my traditional gym, where there is a certain feeling of trepidation before a class begins. I found myself smiling and humming along as I took a spot towards the back of the class in the corner.
As I mentioned, dancing (without cocktails) isn’t exactly my thing, and I was worried about being self-conscious if people could see me. Once the class started, I had no time to think about who was watching me. Ladies, this is not your mother’s exercise class. I am a runner, a tennis player, and I spend 12+ hours a day chasing two small children, but after the first few minutes of Jazzercise, I was sweating. And loving it.
It took me a couple of minutes to get the hang of the moves, but the instructors were very clear and explained exactly what they were doing. There is a small stage in the studio for the instructor, making them easy to see and follow.
My first class was Dance Mixx, which is a high intensity workout that mixes dance-based cardio with strength training. The cardio portion of the class is first, followed by strength training using weights focusing on a full body workout. Running on the treadmill is my go-to cardio exercise, and even with my favorite playlist on my iPod, I am still counting the minutes and the miles until it is over. During Dance Mixx, the time flew by. I loved the modern music choices, including Taylor Swift and Jason Derulo (you can actually download the Jazzercise playlists – check it out!), and the dance moves were just fun.
When the class was finished, I was a little bummed instead of relieved, which is how I typically feel when I finish an exercise class. The rest of the day, I had a little extra pep in my step. It wasn’t just that good tired feeling you have after a tough workout, I felt a little lighter on my toes and more confident in my movements. Full disclosure – after a few classes, I actually found myself practicing some dance moves I learned in class in my bathroom mirror. For me, Jazzercise brought the joy back to exercise. I left each class feeling strong and happy.
I attended classes at the Jacksonville Beach location. They offer free childcare for their 9:15 am and 5:45 pm classes, and my kids loved spending time in the children’s room. They have both been asking to go back, and I loved having an hour of my day where they were cared for while I took care of myself.
Jax Beach Jazzercise is a family friendly community. They are offering a Parent’s Night Out on September 25 from 6-10 p.m., which will include games, dancing, craft time, pizza and a movie. They are also starting Junior Jazzercise classes beginning in October for children ages 5 and up, which includes exercise and games.
Jacksonville Beach Jazzercise and Jacksonville Moms Blog are excited to offer our readers the opportunity to attend a special Jazzercise first timers class on Tuesday, September 8 at 10:30 am. This class is free and exclusive to JMB attendees. Childcare will be provided. If the morning is not a good time, Jazzercise is also offering existing classes to JMB readers on September 9th at 4:30 and 5:45 pm. Childcare is provided during the 5:45 pm class.
To register for the FREE JMB Class on September 8 at 10:30am, please reserve your spot below:
Join us to find out how much fun exercising can really be! You may just find yourself dancing in front of your mirror at home!
Thank you to Jazzercise for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.
