Meet Kathryn!

Meet Kathryn!

Power Lunch it with Kathryn!

Does your day need a shot of energy and good vibes?! Check out Kathryn's lunchtime and afternoon classes at South Loop! Awesome playlist, check! Fierce energy, check! We are ADDICTED to her classes. Get to know a little about Kathryn here:

How do you relax?

With a good book and a glass of red wine.

How do you rev up?

Put on an awesome playlist and by my own hype girl who spits positive affirmations.

What fashion item can you not live without?

A scarf!

Go to healthy snack?

Dry roasted almonds and dried cranberries

Fave indulgence?

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. The whole box.

What do you like about teaching at MaZi?

The positive culture and the dedication of our awesome students! Every day I am amazed at the drive and passion each person brings to the studio.

Song that keeps you going?

500 Miles - The Proclaimers. You can be in the worst possible mood, but once this song comes on you can't help but smile, and jauntily march around while singing along.

Fun fact?

I collect owl knick-knacks. I have mugs, salt & pepper shakers, cookie jars, plates, bowls... I even have an owl tattoo!

#1 fitness tip?

When you feel like you can't do anymore, do one more rep, because you can!

How your ballet background makes a difference!

The discipline from my background in ballet, and all dance, has really contributed to my drive and dedication today. Not only has it given me a strong technique base, it has also shown me that you must find it within yourself to push through any obstacle, be it a really tough workout or a complicated combination. That inner focus and determination will bring you success in any situation.

Kathryn mid-air like she does in Ballerina Fight Club!

See you at the studio!

- XO, Zi

A Homecoming- Returning to Dance

Katie, a MaZi Dance Chicago dancer, generously shares her experience of coming home to the studio, the stage and reconnecting with her passion! This was very touching to read as Marisol and I have both been in the place where dance haunts you like an unfinished love affair until you find a way to do it again! 

Katie comes home!

Overwhelmed with Gratitude for MaZi
By: Katie Lowes

It’s been five long years since I last performed on stage. Five years since “call time” related to an arrival and not a conference. Five years since “warm up” meant stretching and not thawing. Five years since wearing a costume outside of Halloween was both accepted and required. Five years since I felt like a dancer.

Being a dancer has always been part of my identity but I didn’t realize how deeply so until I joined MaZi Dance Chicago (MDC). It had been nearly a decade (ack!) since I’d taken formal classes and I had recently given away all of my dance clothes thinking (dramatically) that I’d never dance again. Adult classes were too easy. Professional classes were too hard. I was too old. Classes were too expensive. The list went on and on. When I found MDC about five months ago, the part of me that had “let go” of my dance dreams performed a grande jeté (couldn’t resist) for joy and the passion for dance I had always had was reignited. It’s one thing to take dance classes. It’s a complete other to learn choreography and perform. I couldn't believe this place existed and I couldn't believe I could be part of it.

After months of preparation, fast forward to the first week in November and not only had I spent an entire week dancing every day (every day!) but I was preparing for a real performance in front of my family, friends and strangers and beside amazingly talented women who were just like me. The choreography was beautiful. Our rehearsals were strong. The shows were sold out. Each of us were “on”. It was the first time my husband had seen me perform and the perma-grin on his face from the back of the audience told me everything I needed to know. It was an amazing night.

I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to perform in the MaZi Bold Fearless Beauty show and so thankful to Ziba and Marisol for creating this amazing space and place for “returning to dance” dancers. While age may mean my muscles take longer to warm and I seem to bruise like a peach these days, I’m amazed at the growth I’ve seen in my own abilities and how being older and wiser has made my dancing less inhibited. The creative outlet outside of work has encouraged me to be more expressive and creative within my work and I’m finding the disdain I had for “the gym” has been replaced with excitement for “the studio”. As someone who once called herself a former dancer, I proud to say I have returned. 

Katie, we're so happy you made it back home and look forward to your next accomplishments!
With Love, 
Zi & Ma
XOXO

Meet Mallory!

Glowing onstage!

Mallory has been dancing at MaZi for about 3 years and performing in the company, MaZi Dance Chicago, almost just as long! The lovely movement/dance therapist recently joined our instructor team and has begun teaching classes at our South Loop studio. Here, in her own words, she tells us a little about herself and shares some sisterly tips on motivation & fitness!

How do you relax?

Cuddle up on my comfy couch, practice deep breathing, and listen to a record, often accompanied by red wine and or my handsome gentleman. 

How do you rev up? 

Music and positive thinking! A good beat and encouraging thoughts always do the trick for me.

What fashion item can you not live without?

My glasses of course! Even though they are also necessary, they're my go to fashion accessory and help give me my distinctive look. 

Go to healthy snack?

Bananas! I try to eat one every day especially before class. They are my super food power booster. 

Fave indulgence? Oh so many to choose, but I'd probably have to say pizza! Preferably thin crust, NY style with at least 2 veggies! :)

What do you like about teaching at MaZi!?

I LOVE the idea of making both dance and fitness accessible to everyone! Moreover, it is the smiles and transformations that I witness each week, the confidence it brings, and the holistic health benefits it provides to both the body and mind. I love being part of a community where you feel welcomed and encouraged daily both by our instructors and our students! Lastly, it is the radiating energy and drive of our dancers that keeps me addicted!

Song that keeps you going?

I need your love (feat. Ellie Goulding) - Calvin Harris. It may be an oldie at this point but every time it comes on in a class I punch harder, jump higher, and feel that unexplainable burst of energy!

Fun fact?

In high school I was a cheerleading captain and a vocalist for a metal band! 

 #1 Fitness tip?

Always tune into your core throughout the entire class. It helps with so many things: gives you a stronger work out, more stable posture, and truly initiates your inner confidence! Even while your walking down the street, using mindfulness about this on a daily basis will help you feel more connected as a mover and as a person! 

Mallory getting ready to kick bum!

How your ballet background makes a difference?

Growing up in a very traditional studio since I was 3, ballet was always required - it is the backbone to form, strength, and posture that bleeds into all other styles of dance including exercise. Even though as an adult I gravitate toward other dance forms more intently, ballet will always be in my bones. It taught me about discipline, passion, and increased my work ethic, all of which have helped mold me into who I am today as an instructor, dance/movement therapist, and overall person.  

Don't miss her bold and fearless classes at South Loop 5:30 PM on Fridays with Ballerina Fight Club, perfect way to start the weekend!

- XO, Zi

Lessons from an Icon- Wendy Whelan

Wendy in rehearsal
Photo: Erin Biano

The One and Only Wendy

Last night Wendy Whelan (think the Michael Jordan of ballet), retired from the New York City Ballet after 3 decades of dancing at the age of 47.  Marisol and I grew up watching videos of her dancing on repeat and I think it was watching her that I realized how athletic ballet is. She encompassed the very first post-Balanchine era at the NYCB, where she helped define what it was to forge ahead  after the death of the founder, George Balanchine.

I got to meet her the first time I took class at Steps on Broadway, where I now usually take a ballet class when I'm visiting NYC. As we started our plies Wendy rushed in late with her hair down, dressed in all black, and took a corner spot at the barre.  I could hardly believe she was there and it actually ruined my class as I was too distracted to focus on what I was doing. Since then, when I take class there I know to just take barre and then sit down and watch her for centre work. After class I somehow mustered the courage to go up to her and ask her for an autograph (2004, pre-selfies) for my friend, Sarah. Sarah was my ballet BFF and she loved Wendy since they both had significant scoliosis that required wearing a back brace nightly. I will never forget how gracious she was to me and while I have never approached her again (playing it cool like any other New Yorker would), this encounter along with following her career for 20 years have made an impact on me. These are the lessons:

Wendy in Wheeldon's After the Rain, a role created for her and performed last night
.Photo: Unknown source

1. Humility-
When I stopped her that day after class I can't imagine she had time in the middle of her busy day, but she sat there and looked at me with her huge, wise eyes and gave me time. She was kind and listened to me talk about my sister, my friend Sarah,  my own ballet career and even the banking interview I was headed to. She was world famous, and I was clearly just a star-struck fan but she found the time to make me feel special.

2. No Ego-
Biggest thing that struck me while I observed her in class is how hard she was working. Probably harder than anyone. When the teacher went up to her to correct her, she applied the correction immediately, would bow her head in respect and was clearly trying to learn as much as possible. Oftentimes, when we feel we've "made it", we stop listening, stop taking feedback, stop growing. Not Wendy!

3. Mind over Matter- 
She could have let her scoliosis stop her dancing dreams as a child, and most recently, a labrum tear injury, but she didn't! These were setbacks that she worked through with notable humor (ref. Instagram posts) and you could literally see her focusing on small improvements. Some improvements which arguably may have just been in her head.

4. Finding YOUR Beauty-
Early in her career she declined the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Nutcracker because she didn't feel pretty enough. Yup, you read that right; SHE DIDN'T FEEL PRETTY ENOUGH. It wasn't until she was cast in roles that highlighted her strengths that she started to feel beautiful. The lesson here is that your beauty looks different than others' beauty, but we all have it!

5. Passing it On-
Another striking quality that I have taken away in following her career, is that almost every NYCB company dancer that is interviewed brings up Wendy as an unofficial mentor. From showing new apprentices where to stand in their first company class, to passing on a role of hers, to how to fit pointe shoes, she has helped new ballerinas feel at home in an intimidating place. One would think that you wouldn't want to help competition that's younger and a potential threat to your spotlight........but not her, not an icon.

I only watched her perform live 3 times and each time she went onstage you could feel the thickness in the auditorium air. It was almost as if no one wanted to breathe as to not disrupt the magic she was creating. Wendy has influenced the energy and movement integrity that I seek for MaZi Dance Fitness, along with the supportive community that Marisol and I wish to foster as these lessons all play a role. I can't wait to see what she does next! Cheers to a wonderful human, dancer and career!

- XO, Zi

MaZi Dance Chicago*: Spotlight on Karen!

MaZi Dance Chicago*: Spotlight on Karen!

Karen really CAN fly! We've seen it. :)

       

Karen is a complete tour de force! I first noticed her when she would take my Zi-Cardio class and would be in the back of the room dancing SOOO BIG that she could've been performing at Madison Square Garden and been seen by all. She dances the way people do when they not only love to move, but NEED to move. One of my favorite dance quotes is from New York City Ballet founder, George Balanchine, "What are you saving yourself for? There is only today." This quote reminds me of her approach to classes and the choreography we do in MDC, she does it with ALL of her being and doesn't hold anything back. Marisol and I's dance teacher growing up, would tell us that great dancers never mark (marking is a half-assed way of dancing to save energy but still go through the motions and is very common, ahem). Karen never marks, even when I ask her to. She doesn't want to waste a moment! A little clip of her dancing here: 

Aside from her joyous dancing, she is a joyful person and has a wonderful quiet confidence to her in the studio. Outside of the studio she is a walking party, we look forward to taking her classes as she is currently training to be a MaZi instructor staring with Zi-Cardio!  Karen is also an environmental educator and works on a nature preserve teaching people (mostly kids) about ecology and helping them foster a lifelong meaningful connection to nature! How cool is she?! 

Why I Dance

I love to dance because I love the escape that dancing offers. It requires all of your physical and mental energy. It forces you to be in the moment. You literally can not dance and think or worry about anything else. For me dancing is pure joy!

What MaZi Means To Me 

 MaZi is such a unique place. It is such a welcoming environment and a community of people encouraging and cheering each other on – in and out of the studio. It has allowed me to meet so many people and make so many friends that I never would have met otherwise. I am so grateful that I discovered MaZi!

Mother Earth meets Water Dancer! 

Watch for her in tomorrow at the Anniversary Party! She will bring a smile to your face. :)

-Zi

*MaZi Dance Chicago is a performing group made up MaZi Dance Fitness students that wish to learn & perform choreography. Their strong commitment and passionate work ethic makes them a joy to work with and a treat to watch. They represent MaZi's core values of: INSPIRE DANCE ACHIEVE & LOVE DANCE LIVE!

#Studio2Street LookBook Fall 2014

#Studio2Street Fall 2014
THE
BOLD.FEARLESS.BEAUTY.
Season

Dancer chic!

We designed key items to take you seamlessly from the studio to wherever the day will take you! We've tested these items for the ultimate comfort, cuteness and practicality that will make a statement. We're excited to share the following items with you:

Ballerina Fight Club Muscle Tank - $32 
 Grab this muscle tank that is perfect with jeans, leggings and always a conversation starter!
Available in S, M, L
Heather Gray or Black

Bold.Fearless.Beauty. Headband 
Pull your hair back and look put together in an instant!

Gray, Red Bandana print
$20

Boyfriend Sweatpants
Baggy Dancer Fit for the coolness factor, super cozy for Fall!
Available in S, M, L, runs big
Black/White & Gray/White
$55


It Girl Dance Cardio Jersey Dress
Perfect Fall layer to and from the studio and a surefire way to STOP TRAFFIC!
Gray, Black
S, M, L, XL
$55

V-neck, back view shown

Limited Edition- EST. 2009 Anniversary Flowy Cut-Out Back

Cool, flowy top with an extra breezy, flattering feel thanks to a cut-out in the back!
S,M,L 
Black, Marbled Black Berry
$35

The Classics:
MaZi Sexy Tank  (pictured above on Shelley)
Black, Coral, Red, Gray, Hot Pink
$28

Flashdance Top 
Black, Red, Gray, Hot Pink (not pictured)
$38
Order 2 items or more and get 10% off!

MaZi Dance Chicago*: Spotlight on Natalie!

             MaZi Dance Chicago*: Spotlight on Natalie! 

BOLD FEARLESS BEAUTY!

Natalie is very special because when she dances you see the LOVE coming right through and it's transmitted to the audience immediately. She is so naturally gifted, it's almost not fair! Choreographing on her is a guilty pleasure for me as it's as if I was choreographing on myself, the only difference is that she can still do it! She has beautiful technique and having danced some of the same ballets that I did in the past, intuitively knows where I'm coming from and the feel I'm trying to emulate (this means lots of laughter). All of MaZi Dance Chicago's choreographers would agree that working with her is fun, focused and inspiring!

She's danced almost everything with us for the past two years and is extremely consistent and precise. As part of the team, everyone loves Natalie because she is sensationally funny and usually knows the choreography very well, all great things to have around! I always wondered why she was so funny and recently found it's because she's a comedian of sorts. She's written two shows that have run at Second City and is currently working on a project at Stage 773! She also writes for a satire blog, mentors an 8th grader and also has time to work as a software developer for you know........."work". In her words: 

Why Do You Dance?

I dance because I have to. My body is never as good or as happy as when I'm dancing. When I'm in the studio I work my hardest and get to be my most free self. 

What Does MaZi Mean To You?

MaZi is a place where I get to come and have fun and be challenged, and most importantly, be surrounded by amazing people. MDC is full of such talented, passionate people, and I feel very lucky to call myself one of them.

Running the town!
Better Looking Photography

Watch for her in next week's pieces at the Anniversary Party! We hope she dances forever!

-Zi

*MaZi Dance Chicago is a performing group made up MaZi Dance Fitness students that wish to learn & perform choreography. Their strong commitment and passionate work ethic makes them a joy to work with and a treat to watch. They represent MaZi's core values of: INSPIRE DANCE ACHIEVE & LOVE DANCE LIVE!

Meet Stacy!

Dancer, Doctor, Dream Girl!
Better Looking Photography

The best thing about our community at MaZi is being able to celebrate the amazing women that walk through our doors on a daily basis. Your stories and backgrounds inspire our mission at MaZi: INSPIRE. DANCE. ACHIEVE. 

Many of you know Stacy from classes, her role as artistic director assistant in MaZi Dance Chicago, and more recently instructor! Her B-Girl Hip Hop class is Wednesday nights at SL, don't miss it!

Today, we celebrate Stacy's huge accomplishment in earning a PsyD (Doctor of Clinical Psychology)! In the 5 years that we have known Stacy, we've seen her commit to her studies, friends and dancing. Everything she does she does completely, which is why she is so special. We've also seen her grow from a very good dancer to an artist capable of EVERYTHING. We are so happy for her, please join us in both welcoming her to the MaZi instructor team and her new title: Dr. Clark! 

How do you relax? 

I go for a walk, listen to music, read a book, or journal.

How do you rev up?

Breakfast is the biggest component for getting me going.  That, and dancing in my bathroom as I get ready :)

What fashion item can you not live without? 

A good pair of flats or earrings.  I wear both constantly.

Go to healthy snack?  

Usually an apple.  It's great for curving appetite between meals and a good source of energy.

Fave indulgence?  

Chocolate!!

What do you like about teaching at MaZi!? 

I love seeing the various styles each student brings, and their energy keeps me going.

Song that keeps you going?  

This changes constantly.  Right now, it's "Hey Mami (Big Wild Remix)" by Sylvan Esso

Fun fact?  

My birthday is on New Years' Day.

 #1 Fitness tip?  

Your diet is so important for a workout.  Make sure to eat a light meal or snack beforehand, and drink water before, during, and after.  The goal is build up strength and energy so your body will need the extra push! 

How does your ballet background make a difference?

Ballet is the foundation for strength, flexibility, and movement.  Whenever I have the chance, I will take the Intro to Ballet intensives at MaZi in order to re-align my center and strengthen my muscles/core.

- XO, Zi

Inspire Dance Achieve

"DANCE FIT", the ultimate status symbol

You INSPIRE DANCE ACHIEVE!
Better Looking Photography

1. 
   
2. What's the most coveted status symbol............is it a handbag, a car? To possess wealth, time, education, a certain pedigree? Maybe, but when I think about the ultimate status symbol, I always think about BEING FIT (how we get to dance, and work our bodies). Quite possibly, it's the last thing one cannot outsource. YOU have to put in the work and time, and look yourself in the mirror for the push to the end of a song or set. There is something noble in this honest work, there is no cheating the system or cutting corners. If you don't produce, there are no results. It doesn't matter what race, socio-economic background or sex you are, FITNESS will not discriminate.

So when you walk around with you fit Body by MaZi (not thin, not skinny, FIT), be proud because it says:

- I can accomplish my goals

- I am willing to work hard

- I am honest

- I show up 

- I confront life

- I care about myself so I can care about you

- I am strong, mentally, spiritually, physically

Sometimes, there are life situations that get in our way of being fit. It will happen to all of us at some point, but when we''re ready our body will be there waiting for us to show up and honor it. 

Inspire. Dance. Achieve.

-XO, 

Zi

Happy Birthday Anson!!

We have so many favorite Anson MaZi moments! Here are a few of the glowing birthday girl!

At RIC with Gift of Movement Founder Marisol & her MaZi bestie Mallory!

Jumping on the couch during AyOH's music video filming.

Leading a Flash Mob on 6 Corners!

Twirling!

And Finally.......

Leading our LOVE.DANCE.LIVE poster!
Better Looking Photography

Happy Birthday Beautiful Anson!

- XO, Zi & Ma

#BikiniBum40 Challenge

We hope you join us in making Summer 2014 your fittest & happiest! We all start out with great intentions for summer and find that we didn't quite make them happen sometime around August. The key lies with accountability and this summer is going to be different because we're here to help!

The CHALLENGE is to:

- Take any 40 classes in July & August.
- Get instructor initials on your #BikiniBum40 card, which you will later submit for a live drawing of great prizes from our favorite neighborhood partners!
-90 minute blasts to speed up your results by pushing your limits.
- Nutritional lecture to clean up your habits by Dr. Pontarelli, date TBD. It's gotten increasingly confusing on what to eat!
- Any class package applies, but to help you take advantage of our Bikini Challenger Deal, which comes out to $6.25/class for the 40 classes at $250 for 2 unlimited months, July & August!

Visual accountability

Every week take a SELFIE of yourself in fitted clothing or swimwear in front of a mirror.

Be consistent for 9 weeks!

This is only for yourself, but if you choose to share it, please tag #bikinibum40 on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!

See you at the studio!

- XO Zi

MaZi Dance Chicago*: Spotlight on Mallory!

MaZi Dance Chicago: Spotlight on Mallory!

Mallory is one of those girls that has an inexplicable coolness factor. She's always in a good mood as she walks into MaZi with her curls in a loose bun, her dark-rimmed glasses, and a huge smile. This cool girl is also very special! She is one of our Gift of Movement instructors for RIC as she just graduated with a Dance/Movement Therapy graduate degree from Columbia College.

She brings tons of energy and sass to all the classes she's in, i.e. if you take Ballerina Fight Club with her she might knock you out.:) She's been performing with MDC since 2012 and inspires all of us choreograhers with her "attack" on the movement and endless energy and commitment to the work. Last December, before our very own eyes, and during an MDC performance, her boyfriend proposed to her after she finished dramatically on the floor. In 5 minutes flat, Mallory had us all believing in love, but most importantly she had us believing in fairy tales! 

Mallory in her element!

IN HER OWN WORDS:

Why do you dance?

I dance to give my inner soul a voice.

What does MaZi mean to you? 

My (dance) family, my release, my self-care, and fulfilling my passion. 

One of our favorite moments ever! Relive the moment HERE.

Thanks for bringing so much soul to MaZi with you everyday!

-XO, Zi

*MaZi Dance Chicago is a performing group made up MaZi Dance Fitness students that wish to learn & perform choreography. Their strong commitment and passionate work ethic makes them a joy to work with and a treat to watch. They represent MaZi's core values of: INSPIRE DANCE ACHIEVE & LOVE DANCE LIVE!

The birthday girl in pictures!

Happy Birthday Jess!

Wishing her a happy day, catch her classes all week long at Wicker Park & South Loop, and now......North Ave Beach Sundays at 9 AM for summer!

With the Ball at Wicker Park

With another "Ball" at South Loop

Urban #ballerinabum
Eddo Photography

Onstage for Off Center Dance

As a DANCER!

- XO, Zi

MaZi Dance Chicago: Spotlight on Laura

MaZi Dance Chicago: Spotlight on Laura!

Laura was hand-picked for MDC by Marisol during a Ballerina Bum Body class! Her beautiful lines and technique really shine even in the challenging fitness class. Shortly after, she was selected to be in AyOH's music video (releasing next month!) with MaZi and has been featured in solos by different MDC choreographers for her stage presence and musicality. We love watching her dance because she has an innate rhythm where it appears that the music is actually coming from her. She is also a master hair-whipper! When she's not lighting up the stage, she works in advertising and can be found taking MaZi's fitness classes with her #MaZisis, Karen!

Laura floating!

IN HER OWN WORDS:

What brought you to MaZi Dance Fitness?

I have a passion for dance and was looking for a place that I could incorporate that while still getting a great workout.  I now look forward to my work-outs and have also had my dance spark re-ignited!  

What do you love about being in MaZi Dance Chicago?

I love learning new choreography!  Everyone is there to have fun and share in the spirit of dance which is a great feeling.  

Fun Fact!

I love musicals and was involved in my college theater program.  I was part of a musical exchange program and got to perform in Guys & Dolls in Italy!

One of our favorite Laura pics during a little downtime with her #MaZisis

We look forward to watching her perform this summer and seeing her in AyOH's music vid!

-XO, Zi

*MaZi Dance Chicago is a performing group made up MaZi Dance Fitness students that wish to learn & perform choreography. Their strong commitment and passionate work ethic makes them a joy to work with and a treat to watch. They represent MaZi's core values of: INSPIRE DANCE ACHIEVE & LOVE DANCE LIVE!

5 Things you don't know about Kiley!

Kiley's always ready to Werq!

We "met" Kiley a while back as she's been teaching with us since 2010! Read here for a little #tbt on her Meet Kiley feature. This girl is the real deal and a big part of our history and MaZi fam! Here's 5 things you didn't know about gorgeous Kiley, all of which make us love her:

1.  I lived in Rome for a year during college and I'm obsessed with it.  Luckily, I get to go back for the first time this summer and I can't wait!

2.  I could not live without ice cream.  You don't want to know how much of it I eat. :)

3.  For my "real" job I'm an architect. I love it, but love dancing & teaching WERQ at MaZi Dance Fitness more.  

4.  Don't try to make plans with me on a Saturday during the fall.  I will be watching Notre Dame football.  

5.  Tardiness is my biggest pet peeve.  

Catch her for Werq Mondays at 8PM & Thursdays at 7PM at Wicker Park!

-XO, Zi

Kiley & Ma in 2011 behind the scenes for MaZi's workout video, BALLERINA EVOLVE!