Tanya Schmidt has spent decades teaching people that fitness doesn't have to look like what you see on TV.
After nearly 15 years as an exercise instructor, Schmidt learned something simple: the people who stick with exercise are the ones who laugh.
Now she's bringing that philosophy to a new class at Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center.
A Different Kind of Fitness
Chair Fitness & Dance launches in August, meeting Wednesdays and Fridays at 11:15 a.m. It's designed for anyone—whether you're new to exercise or looking for a real challenge. Every movement can be modified. The music ranges from Broadway to the hits of the 1950s, 60s, 70s and beyond.
'The goal is simple,' Schmidt said. 'Make every class energetic, creative, enjoyable, and most importantly, foster a sense of community.'
What makes the class work is the combination: core strengthening, balance, agility, and muscle toning paired with dance-inspired movement, great music, and laughter. Schmidt believes that joy and connection reduce stress and create a more sustainable fitness experience.
Participants report more energy, better balance, less pain, and greater independence after taking her classes.
'The greatest transformations happen when people discover confidence in what their bodies can do,' Schmidt said.
Getting Started
Schmidt is offering free trial classes on Wednesday, July 29 and Friday, July 31 from 11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. Space is limited. Arrive a few minutes early to settle in.
The August session runs eight weeks, meeting every Wednesday and Friday at Free Range Yoga's South Wing, 118 N Lafayette St. in Macomb. For pricing and enrollment details, contact Free Range Yoga at www.freerangeyoga.us or on Facebook at freerangeyoga.
To reserve a spot for the free class, contact Schmidt at (309) 863-5267.
