On top of being a lively cardio exercise, dance is also a form of expression. Aspiring to build a community promoting values of equity, diversity and inclusion, WSU Vancouver faculty member, Felix Braffith, invites other VanCougs to move with him in his new class, Commit Dance Fitness.
Braffith is the university’s director of student equity, success and inclusive excellence, teaching dance classes using choreography videos from Commit Dance Fitness, a program designed for enhancing inclusivity and dynamic movement. Started by Donna Black, a trainer in the dance fitness community in Tacoma, Washington, Commit Dance Fitness aims towards bringing together communities across the U.S. Bringing their own experience to the dance floor, each instructor combines dance and workout movements from their own cultures, incorporating them into Commit Dance Fitness’ choreography.
“[The class] was created by a diverse group. It’s meant to be inclusive, empowering, queer-friendly and everybody who’s an instructor gets to bring their own culture and identity into the dynamic,” Braffith said.
Commit Dance Fitness utilizes dance movements and exercises from different cultures, from Zumba to jazzercise, making it accessible for students of all backgrounds and experience levels. By creating a space of diverse bodies, Braffith’s goal is to offer a safe outlet to improve personal health and community care for the campus.
“I don’t consider myself a dancer. I like music, and I like to move and have fun. It’s about being comfortable and participating in a larger community and building confidence. If you develop the confidence to dance in front of people, then that translates to the classroom, and into your personal life and professional goals,” Braffith explained.
“A lot of people think public speaking is the scariest thing, but dancing is on a whole other level. I use [dancing] as a way to help students build body confidence.” – Felix Braffith
Angel Figueroa, senior majoring in elementary education and attendee of the class, says the class’s accessibility is a key driver in encouraging students to exercise while still having fun in an inviting space.
“The benefit is that you get to know people from diverse groups, and come together to enjoy an activity and build healthy habits. That’s important for people who may have impediments with other forms of workouts, like heavy lifting. It’s a fun way to keep moving and stay in shape with other people” Figueroa said.
Braffith’s class is held in the fitness center and occurs every Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Spreading positivity through movement and music, he hopes to motivate VanCougs by inspiring them to be self-assured and uplifted within the community of Commit Dance Fitness.
Arabelle is a senior studying English at WSU Vancouver.