Do I need to pre-register before taking a class? No you don’t—either download the registration form from this website (click here) and drop it off at the front desk, or simply show up 10 minutes before a scheduled class to fill out the form in our lobby.

What do I wear to class? Whatever workout attire is comfortable for you and will allow you to have freedom of movement. For some people that means leotards; for others, sweats …or shorts …or even jeans.

Is Nia for someone who is out of shape? What about overweight? Definitely! The beauty of Nia is that it’s adaptable to all level of fitness. In a Nia class the instructor demonstrates how to do Nia movements at different levels of exertion from least exertive to most exertive. You are then invited to do the movement in the way that feels best to you, given where you’re at with your fitness level.

I really need an intense, cardio workout. Will Nia be enough for me? As just mentioned, there are three exertion levels to which Nia moves can be performed. Therefore, a Nia class can be as intense an exercise cardio-wise as you want it to be. Make no mistake about it Nia was designed to be a workout.

Can I do Nia if I’m pregnant? As with any form of exercise during pregnancy, we’d advise careful consultation with your primary care provider. However, Nia is inherently a low-impact form of exercise where you can self-regulate your exertion level. Because of that, many women practice Nia well into their pregnancies.

I am not very coordinated and don’t know how to dance. Can I still do Nia? Are there classes for beginners? You do not have to have a dance background or any training in dance probably 99% of our students don’t have such a background. Similarly, there isn’t a minimum ability level when it comes to Nia, either. Most people feel like they’re klutzes when they start their Nia practice but soon easily learn the moves. There is no right or wrong way to do Nia, and as with any sport or exercise regimen, the joy grows rapidly as you “get” the movements.

Is there a warm up in a Nia class? Yes. Similarly, there’s a cool down period at the end of each class.

Is it required to do Nia barefoot? Required… no. Preferred… absolutely yes! Sometimes there are physical reasons not to practice Nia barefoot. If you have any concerns, discuss your personal situation with the instructor. However, doing Nia barefoot will significantly help you strengthen the muscles, tendons and ligaments of your feet, legs and trunk. As a result, practicing Nia barefoot helps you with body stability; reducing the likelihood of a fall and injury. There’s also an intangible and yet unmistakable connection with the Earth a grounding that happens when you’re barefoot.

I’m 50. Am I too old for Nia? The majority of our students are “Moms” in their 30s, 40s and 50s. These women typically have children in school and desire a sustainable exercise program that’s fun and doesn’t have the repetitive injury risk of running, biking, tennis, “high-impact” aerobics and so on. However, we also have a sizable number of students in their 20s and some in their 60s. There is no age limit on the ability to practice (or enjoy) Nia.

Is Nia for kids? Nia is generally for adults. However, “young” adults (at least 14-years old) can and do enjoy Nia occasionally becoming “regulars.”

Does JoyMoves offer childcare? Unfortunately, no we don’t have the space or required licenses to offer that service. Please do not bring your very young children, babies or toddlers to class.

Is Nia for men and women? Nia is for both men and women, although the majority of the students tend to be women; probably 5% of our students are men. Nia students follow the instructor’s lead on what movements to perform Nia is not a “couples dancing” experience. And always, the energy in the class is respectful and sacred towards oneself, towards the instructor and towards one’s fellow students.

Can someone with “bad” knees do Nia? One of the guiding ideals of Nia is what we call “the pleasure principle” using comfort and ease as a way to move and get fit. Nia is taught in such a way you’re you are guided and empowered to make your own movement choices moment to moment. As such, you’ll probably find Nia to be gentler on your joints than exercises which feature repetition such as jogging, tennis, aerobics and so on.

So, please come to a Nia class. Trust us you’ll have a blast. But, take it easy on yourself the first time, too. Nia is about self-love …and joy.