Bahia In Motion

Capoeira class with Daniel and Aileen is like bootcamp — lots and lots of ab work, kicks, cardio and push ups. It is always challenging, no matter how long you’ve done it… but it is so worth it. After going through two beginners series consecutively, I was in the best shape I’ve ever been in my life. If you’re looking for something a little less intensive, consider the Afro-​Brazillian dance class (really fun work out too).
The best part is the community that the class brings. Everybody is supportive, friendly, fun and always inclusive. I can’t say enough good things about Bahia in Motion!

I have tried a myriad of classes for kids and hands down this is THE BEST! Taught in English and Portuguese, amazing Brazilian music, combo of dance/​martial arts, singing, nonstop action, my daughter was thrilled and smiled the entire time! Two instructors run the class. I’ve taken zumba classes from Daniel for months and yet again I’m blown away by his energy, focus and commitment to his students. Hope you join us for the fall class series!

I have been taking class with Daniel & Aileen for almost 1 year, and I intend to continue dancing with them as long as I am physically able! I normally take the Thursday class at Seattle Central, but always try to catch them at World Rhythm Fest, Brasil Fest, any event with a workshop.
The class is taught mostly in Portuguese, but if you don’t speak the language, no matter, Aileen translates the necessities and the rest Daniel manages to convey easily enough. He is a most charismatic teacher, and Aileen exudes a sunny warmth that just makes you feel like anything you do is OK.
It’s a FUN, rigorous workout, and I always leave floating about 5 feet off the ground, totally energized, feeling sex-​eeee. I also take W African dance, and Daniel & Aileen have made me a far better dancer in my other classes… my other teachers have even remarked about it!
Plan to work your core HARD, move non-​stop, stretch your abilities to solo and lead other students. And above all… SMILE. It’s about having fun, interacting with your fellow dancers, inviting good energy into your life.

I’m not a very good dancer. I don’t have natural rhythm. So when I enrolled in Bahia in Motion’s Afro-​Brazilian dance class, I figured it would be a good workout — but I expected it to be grueling, painful, and awkward.
Boy, was I in for a surprise! My Thursday night Afro-​Brazilian dance class is the most fun I have all week. I credit Aileen and Pitta (Daniel) Santos, the husband-​wife instructor team that leads the class, for their contagious enthusiasm and ability to create a supportive environment.
Some details on the class itself:
* The class is bilingual — Portuguese and English — and there’s not much talking in the instruction. We mostly just follow the movements of the instructors.
* The workout is pretty intense for somebody like me, who lives a fairly sedentary lifestyle. I am always sore for a few days afterward.
* The dance moves definitely force me out of my comfort zone. There’s a lot of hip movement, booty movement, and shaking of the curves. Letting go is actually fun here though — the movements go with the music, and it doesn’t feel over-​sexualized.
* One of the rules is that you’re always supposed to smile! :D It’s hard to feel self-​conscious when everybody’s got a big grin on their face.
* Class is barefoot, unless you have an injury or reason to wear socks/​shoes. It’s been pretty tough on my toes, so I’ve started wearing socks and that helps.
* My class is very convenient for Capitol Hill-​ites; it’s in a gorgeous room at Seattle Central’s Mitchell Activity Center (on Broadway). They also offer classes in other Seattle neighborhoods.
If you’re looking for a fun way to get more exercise or gain confidence in your body, I definitely recommend taking a beginning dance class with Bahia in Motion.