The 'K' in K:dancefitness...

...is me, Karen!

I started dancing when I was six years old, training in ISTD Tap, Modern and Ballet, performing in shows and taking part in competitions. Believe is or not I was a very shy child and was always asked why I didn't smile when I danced... the joy of dancing was inside but I was too busy concentrating to let it show on the outside! 

I went on to study Dance and Performing Arts at college where I studied Contemporary Dance with a little singing and acting thrown in for good measure! 

My first job as a dancer was as part of the Entertainments Team at holiday centres and hotels around the UK, where I danced many different styles of dance in the Production Shows. It was here I had my first taste of Latin and Ballroom dancing, as part of my job was to partner dance with the guests. Being twirled around the floor for a waltz or a quickstep is an incredible experience!

I was also lucky enough to be able to pursue my love of singing and music by becoming the lead singer in a resident band where we covered all genres for guests to listen and dance to. I should probably mention that it's best not to ask me for a tune these days!

It was when I 'retired' from performing that I found Dance Fitness. Having always danced I suddenly found myself not moving much and in need of regular exercise. I knew that the only thing that would hold my attention would be a dance based class and luckily at the time I lived locally to a ChaSamba Fitness class. The instructor of this class was Victoria, the creator of ChaSamba and when I realised I could go on to teach it myself I decided to do the training where I met Sue, who years later created Fit4Tap. The rest, as they say, is history!

I have been a certified Dance Fitness Instructor for nearly a decade now and I love everything about classes that I hope you do too. Meeting new people, enjoying exercise, dancing different styles and of course smiling, laughing and having fun! x