March 1, 2017 | Feature Features
When a sick Beyoncé beat starts blasting across the dance studio’s floor, every newcomer knows they’re in the right place. Dance instructor Jenny Sanchez, née Yevgeniya Aleksandrova Mayants, knows she’s in the right place too. After years working in oil and gas, and teaching exercise classes on the side, the 5-foot-6 spitfire has finally opened her own Montrose dance studio, Dance House Fitness.
“Dance was always my outlet of creativity,” she says, noting that back in the day she even tried out for the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squads. What began last April with a small group of three is now a full-on dance exercise concept. On offer: an inspired set of classes—like Strut, a stiletto-heel dance class, and Booty Werk, a high-intensity lower body workout—that focus on empowering clients through strength and confidence. “I like to call my clients my squadpack.”
In addition to the new studio, Sanchez is also partnering with organizations like CAMH and Hermann Park Conservancy, and athletic stores for community outreach classes. It may seem like a lot, but this is only the beginning. “Oh, girl, I got goals. I want people to realize this is what they’ve been looking for.”
SANCHEZ'S HOTS
Sushi, hair flips, Beyoncé beats, Chanel lip gloss, Clarisonic, day planners
SANCHEZ'S NOTS
Uncultured people, laziness, humidity, ponytail holders, unmanicured nails
Originally published in the March issue of Houston
Photography by:
