By Crystal Lynn, Gary Crusader
A popular dance cardio class in Gary is breaking the mold in its approach to health. Hip Hop Cardio focuses not only on the physical aspect of health, but on the daily lifestyle changes that must be adopted to achieve overall wellness.
Hip Hop Cardio, instructed by Tiffany Dilworth, teaches women to love their bodies. Hip Hop Cardio creates a judgement free zone meant to “inspire women of all different body types to embrace their natural beauty” and to “aim for their own specific goals,” Dilworth emphasizes.
The class is exclusively for women, and bridges great music with a good time. Beyond the 500+ calories that women burn off during every class, participants gain self-confidence and a community of support.
Hip Hop Cardio moved from its Merrillville location in 2013 and was welcomed by the City of Gary with open arms.
Dilworth supports community events and causes through the Hip Hop Cardio classes. Over the last three years Hip Hop Cardio has been a featured class during the City of Gary’s Health and Wellness program, raising funds for breast cancer awareness, Crohn’s Disease and colitis, and Pop Warner football to name a few.
The unique aspect of the program is the partnerships and camaraderie that connects this small business with women owned businesses in the region.
Valarie King, the owner of King Nutrition, brings healthy shakes to the class as an alternative to fast food. King has faithfully attended Hip Hop Cardio since she was invited to a Glow Party they sponsored a year ago. When asked what makes Hip Hop Cardio different from any other class she supports, King says, “It’s the different backgrounds of everyone in the class, bringing different experiences and energy, and we should support that.”
Hip Hop Cardio also supports other cardio classes offered at the Hudson Campbell Sports and Fitness Center, occasionally offering discounts for attending the Keyed to Fit Bootcamp class offered by Kia Smith on Saturdays.
To encourage the bond between family and health, Hip Hop Cardio is offering a special Mommy and Me Glow Party on Friday, March 3, 2017 from 7-9 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children. Regular classes are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. at 455 Massachusetts, Gary, IN. The cost is $5 per class, no membership required.
