Real Rhythm Dance and Fitness — Attraction in Ridgefield

This review is so long overdue, but so much deserved. I anxiously attended my first class in January '21 after my cousin nudged me to try a class for the 50 eleventh time. I have ALWAYS loved to dance. Dance is my safe space. Dance is my peace. Dance is my freedom. But as much as I dance like I'm in a 2000s music video, I tend to get anxious and super self conscious dancing in front of other people. Anxiety has ruled much of my life, stunted my growth, and has pushed me to hide myself. I avoided dance classes for fear of judgement, but the community Marissa and her team provides has made this very anxious 6'1 woman, blossom into a more confident, comfortable, and joyous person. Never did I imagine, that in this lifetime I would choose to move closer to the front in class or freestyle during a water break while people with eyes are watching me lol. My mindset has changed, and with that, my life has changed. I went from dancing in the shadows to creating my own choreography and openly sharing it, and this confidence has trickled into every aspect of my life. There are so many things I love about this dance community, but above all it's how they focus on mental wellness in addition to our physical wellness. Honestly, truly, I have been seeking what Real Rhythm provides for a long time and I am so grateful to be a part of this growing community. I really want all my anxiety-riddled people out there to know there is a space for you to exhale here, no matter what your mind is convincing you of. It just takes practice. Join a class and watch yourself...

I only have ever been to Millenium or Playground in LA so I was excited to learn New Jersey had a dance studio near me.

Much to my demise, the website is confusing and I often would book a lesson that would end up being the instructor/CEO’s schedule in California. There should be an option to allow ONLY the east coast location or west coast location before allowing my payment to go through.

Then I couldn’t make it in time to attend my last lesson out of my 3 class package. I contacted the CEO/Marissa asking if I can come in on Friday, given my package expires on Thursday and there was no class running that day. It was crickets. There was no “no you can’t,” or “yes you can” kind of clarification. I understand it’s a self run business at the end of the day and operating 2 coasts must be hard, but at least be able to provide some response. I think I’ll just stick to the studios I know. I’m slightly sad I have not found something on the east coast up to bar with dance programs in the west.

P.S. I did check my email once more regarding fitting me in for a class one day after my pass would expire. I did not receive anything. Had I received any notice of accommodation or a courtesy admission for one class in the future, I would not have taken the time to write my reflection of this program. Best of luck to...

I have been dancing with Real Rhythm Dance and fitness for 4 years and what a journey it’s been. As a working mom and wife these classes are a fit for my ME time. I started with the Vixen workout and just fell in love with Marissa’s energy and charisma. Soon after that the choreography classes began growing I was learning so much from her and becoming a better dancer as an adult is very different from when you are a kid. Marissa was patient and supportive and always encouraging. Intensives were introduced which focused on more in depth techniques. And after those I could really tell my growth. I can’t wait to personal train with marissa too! Aside from the classes, there are get togethers and socials and events that we attend to network and support each other. Real Rhythm also hosted its very first dance retreat which I was so happy to be a part of. Everyone who has ever taken a class will tell you there is a special feeling you have when it’s over. It makes me happy, confident and all around a better person. Real Rhythm is not only a dance company, it’s...