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What Is LaBlast? Interview With Vivien Chilton.

We decided to ask one of our all-star LaBlast instructors to tell us a little more about this class and give us some insight on what you can expect. Read more here!

Published: 2/4/19

Instructor Vivien Chilton Answers All Of Your Questions About LaBlast

LaBlast has been called “The Most Fun Dance Workout You’ll Ever Do” by Daily Burn because of its high energy, fun, heart-pumping structure. So, we decided to ask one of our all-star LaBlast instructors to tell us a little more about this class and give us some insight on what you can expect.

1 | We are so excited to get to know you, Vivien! Could you let everyone know what you do at Chuze Fitness, how long you have worked here, and how you ended up on the team?

I teach BodyPump, Barre, Silver Sneakers and LaBlast at Chuze gyms in Denver and Littleton, Colorado locations. I am passionate about group fitness.  As my kids got older, I decided to pursue my group exercise certification through AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America). From that point and on, it has been one format after another. It has been about four years since I started teaching, and I am happy to say that I love it more than ever! A friend of mine told me about Chuze and encouraged me to apply for an instructor opening. So I got the job after communicating with PJ through email back and forth for months… yes MONTHS. Finally, we got to talk on the phone about Chuze and the culture and set up the audition. The rest is history. I had never had such a lengthy process when getting a group exercise instructor job. I am amazed by how Chuze Fitness and PJ made such an effort to find the right fit. It is very rare among most other gyms.

Chuze Fitness Instructor Vivien Chilton headshot in a black shirt with gray and yellow background

 

2 | What exactly is LaBlast?

LaBlast is a ballroom dance inspired dance fitness program created by Louis Von Amstel – former Dancing with the Stars pro and world champion.  It is partner-free and accessible for all levels of participants. You can be a seasoned ballroom dancer or an absolute newbie. It is important to know that you can modify up or down according to your own fitness level.

3 | Can you take us through a class? What exercises will we do and what should we expect?

The typical LaBlast class is about 55 minutes long. We start out with warmup as with every GroupX class. Then we dance through Cha Cha, Jive, Waltz, Foxtrot, Salsa and so on. We use a mix of music genres from hip-hop, jazz, country, and even classical sometimes! I have to say that the best part of LaBlast is the music. As an instructor, I get to work all the music into different styles of dance just like magic. It is so versatile, and yet the interchangeable patterns make it accessible to participants. As you can imagine, cardio is huge, and we also incorporate weight training and plyometrics.  Every dance takes you through a different journey physically and emotionally. We are highly focused on the mind and body connection.

4 | Do you have to have dance experience to have a blast in LaBlast?

As I mentioned above, NO! It is normal to feel intimidated for the newbies, but I want you to always remember this — have fun and keep moving! Even for me, it is still a learning curve. We are on this journey together! We are not competing in Dancing with the Stars after all 😉

5 | What are your three main tips for someone who is new to LaBlast?

Move freely, feel the music, and have fun!

LaBlast instructor Vivien Chilton teaching a class in green leggings and a black shirt

6 | How often do you suggest that members take the LaBlast class?

Twice a week is the ultimate goal! Most of us lead an active and busy life; therefore, incorporating other formats such as Barre, Yoga or any weight training is the key to achieve your overall fitness goal.

7 | This music is so fun! Can members suggest a song to groove to?

Yes, absolutely! Though I will have to listen to it and see if its appropriate for a certain dance. I love hearing new song suggestions!

8 | Do you have any hobbies outside of the gym that keep you happy and healthy?

I have three school-age children that keep me from sitting down. At this point in my life, I spend most of the weekends attending soccer games, lacrosse games and swim meets for my children. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends!

9 | Is there anything else that you would like to share with the Chuze Family?   

I just love teaching and coming to Chuze! The members are so fun and motivating to work with.  It is such a wonderful environment and really is the best part of the day for many!

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