VIDA Instructor Profile: Tami DeVitis

Our Instructor profile this month is Tami DeVitis who currently teaches Barre and cycle on Saturdays and will be adding teaching an additional Barre class on Mondays starting in January.

1. Why did you decide to become Barre and group exercise instructor?

I love dance and movement! After seeing so many amazing changes and results in my personal physical fitness and how this was a positive outlet for me due to a high stress career, I wanted to share this passion with class participants and show them that group fitness is truly effective. Working out in a group environment forces individuals to work harder and encourage each other to achieve goals. I received my first group exercise certification in 2003 and have been nonstop ever since.

I took my first barre class years ago and was immediately hooked. Growing up a dancer, barre brought me back to where it all started for me, ballet at the barre (minus the tutu). After taking a few classes in NYC and DC, I wanted to take segments from the workout I loved and combine with challenging fitness intervals, Pilates exercises and upbeat music and VIDA Barre was born! VIDA gave me the opportunity to bring this program to life, with the launch of Vida Barre in 2011. VIDA Barre is the perfect combination of what I love- ballet inspired movements, core work, flexibility and balance and overall full body strength.

2. What’s one thing you want all your first-time class participants to know?

Just like yoga or any other inner fitness program, come to the studio with an open mind and allow your body to experience something new. I am a firm believer- if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you!

3. When you’re not teaching in the Studio, where can they find you?

At home. I Love to cook, relax and enjoy my downtime! This is what I call recharging my battery.

4. How are your classes different from other instructors’?

Barre with a side of sarcasm! I try to make every class fun and a unique experience. What I personally offer is variety of my music, try to offer a new playlist and choreography every 2 weeks.

5. Which superpower would you like to have for a day?

Read people’s minds, see what they are really thinking.