Pictured above:   Tracey Green at Cheetah Gym Andersonville

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Tracey Green to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #20. 

Tracey completed WERQ Instructor Training in February 2013 and teaches WERQ in Downtown Chicago.  She is an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor.  Tracey teaches WERQ, AlphaBootCamp, TABATA Bootcamp, Group Sculpt and Indoor Cycling.  She is also certified by the World Tae Kwon Do Federation in Martial Arts Instruction.

Tracey Green has an eclectic movement history, ranging anywhere from a background in musical theater to an adolescence spent as a competitive figure roller skater (yes, that IS a sport, and yes, it IS as fantastic as it sounds).  She was first introduced to WERQ at Cheetah Gym in Andersonville after being hired as a group exercise instructor by WERQ Master Trainer Haley Stone herself.  Obtaining her WERQ certification has been the highlight of her teaching career thus far.  This fierce format has proven to be a source of empowerment and continues to build her confidence and skills as both an instructor as well as a person.  She is incredibly grateful to be a part of the WERQ community and couldn’t be prouder to represent such an outstanding brand of dance fitness.

“WERQ is a format that has proven so mutually beneficial for both instructor and student in regards to health and happiness.  I started teaching WERQ fairly early in my group exercise teaching career and found the more I strove to improve as a WERQ Instructor, the more I improved as a fitness instructor in general.  Clarity in cueing and demonstration, the use of noises to cue, the ability to summon energy and enthusiasm at the drop of a hat – all these skills filtered into my other exercise formats as well.  WERQ helped me find my confidence and proficiency as an instructor and has been a source of empowerment for me which enables me to be a source of empowerment for others.”

“I am proud to represent a brand that asks a great deal of its instructors and students.  Output mirrors input.  When a brand’s focus is to challenge its participants both mentally and physically, to ask more of them then they would ask of themselves, the results mirror those high demands.  When the challenge increases so to do the rewards.  The benefits of WERQ extend beyond the classroom.  Each time I teach I leave the classroom transformed.   Participants may enter the room hoping to change their bodies but they will undoubtedly leave with changed hearts as well.”

“WERQ is challenging, but achievable.  WERQ is high intensity cardio exercise with strength and balance components making it a well rounded workout and an unified exercise experience.  The music is recognizable and motivating.  The choreography is achievable and playlists are continuous.  This takes WERQ beyond the typical exercise experience.  Students will challenge themselves without sacrificing enjoyment.  They will boost cardiovascular endurance, strength, agility while developing increased neuromuscular control, coordination, improved balance.  And don’t forget the WERQ endorphins!”

WERQ would like to recognize Tracey for her star power, cueing mastery, stage presence and for repping WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS TRACEY!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

Pictured above:   Shannon Hritz

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Shannon Hritz to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #21. 

Shannon Hritz

Shannon completed WERQ Instructor Training in February 2012 and teaches WERQ in Downtown Chicago. She is a BASI Certified Pilates Instructor, a program which requires an intensive 1 year apprenticeship.  Shannon studied under Cindy Reid (one of only 40 BASI Worldwide Faculty)!   Shannon has been certified to teach mat Pilates for over a decade.

Shannon danced professionally for 11 years (Ballet and Jazz).  She spent 5 seasons with Bodiography Contemporary Ballet, apprenticed with River North Chicago Dance Company & Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and performed 5 seasons with Inaside Chicago Dance.

WERQ would like to recognize Shannon for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  She displays a mastery of cueing, is fluidly able to transition from Right Lead (facing the mirrors) to Left Lead (facing the students) and delivers a top class experience to her students!

CONGRATULATIONS SHANNON!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

Pictured above:   Christina Outlay

Christina Outlay

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Christina Outlay Ph.D to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #22. 

WERQ would like to recognize Christina Outlay for teaching WERQ at the highest level, her assistance in growing the WERQ brand in Wisconsin and her extraordinary star power.  Check out her class.  You’ll see what we mean!  She’ll make you WERQ!

CONGRATULATIONS CHRISTINA!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

WERQing in Wisconsin!

Professor Christina By Day. WERQ Rep by Night.

Christina center stage at afterWERQ in Chicago

Pictured above:   Lynnea Malley and WERQ Master Trainer Julie Steffen at the XSport on State Street, Downtown Chicago, IL.

Lynnea – Yoga Inspired WERQ Cooldown – Pictured at XSport State Street Chicago, IL

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Lynnea Malley to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #23. 

“WERQ is the most incredible thing that’s ever happened to be in the realm of exercise.  With WERQ, fitness is no longer a chore.  I have never looked forward to draining minutes on a treadmill – but I always look forward to WERQ.  WERQ keeps me sane.  There is a quote I have always liked that says “In all chaos there is a cosmos.  In all disorder, a secret order”.  Where life is chaos, WERQ is my cosmos.  WERQ has the potential to change lives and the whole world needs to know about it.  I want to represent WERQ Fitness.”

“To friends I describe the WERQ brand as ‘the most fun you will have while actually getting an awesome workout’.  In a more professional setting I describe WERQ as a finely tuned format of dance cardio that is enjoyable, effective and easy to follow.  You don’t have to be a dancer to achieve WERQ – the layout of the class caters strongly to helping students achieve.   The warmup previews moves and the cueing method is specific in showing the students what’s coming next helping prevent participants from feeling frustrating or confused.  There are modifications to challenging moves making this format accessible to lots of types and ages.  The WERQ playlist uses a mix of pop, rock and hip hop songs thus appealing to a wide audience.”

“WERQ is cued according the 3Q1 method of cueing.   When a choreo change is coming, WERQ will cue you before the change.  The instructor will use a clear visual cue.  This is essential to the WERQ format.  It makes routines easier to follow and creates seamless transitions between the dance elements.  The WERQ warmup is specific.  It’s a formula that not only warms up the body but eases the students into the WERQout both physically and by showing them some of the moves to be used later in class.  The WERQ cooldown uses yoga inspired stretching to ease students back to reality.”

“Mentally WERQ provides students with an opportunity to let go of all life’s stresses while boosting confidence though fun dance moves.  WERQ also provides an endorphin release which can help ease a stressed or unhappy mind.”

WERQ would like to recognize Lynnea for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  She displays a mastery of cueing, is fluidly able to transition from Right Lead (facing the mirrors) to Left Lead (facing the students) and delivers a top class experience to her students!

CONGRATULATIONS LYNNEA!  

“Pro Athlete. I’m not no wannabe – Waitress asked how many bottles?  I said 23.”  ~  Mike Will Made It

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

XSport WERQ Instructors

Pictured above:   Valerie Green, WERQ Instructor

Larissa, Missy and Valerie

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Valerie Green to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #24. 

Valerie believes in the WERQ format.  ”After teaching many, many other formats over the past 21 years I have truly found a format I not only love to teach but love to participate in myself.  I love talking up the format and bringing new WERQaholics in to try.  WERQ is easy to follow dance fitness because of the music – it’s Billboard and iTunes top 100 making it familiar to participants.  The 3Q1 method of cueing allows participants to workout in confidence knowing their instructor will let them know of the next choreography change.  The WERQ warmup prepares the body physically and mentally by previewing the steps.  Repetition of a step in the warmup allows muscle memory to take over when that step is repeated later in class.  All of this leads to a high intensity workout that’s FUN!  WERQ builds cardiovascular endurance and focuses on core utilization and balance training.”

WERQ would like to recognize Valerie for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS VALERIE!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

Valerie teaching at Lifetime Old Orchard in Skokie, IL

Pictured above:   Skyla Makay, Brandy Ramey, Kim Rickenbaker (WERQ Rep #6), Saydee Reyes and Melissa Sperko. WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Skyla Makay, Brandy Ramey, Saydee Reyes and Melissa Sperko to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Reps #25, #26, #27 and #28. 

WERQ Rep #25 Skyla Makay

Skyla Makay believes fitness doesn’t have to be excruciating and dance doesn’t have to be complicated – and she’s passionate about helping other people discover the “brain changing transformation that occurs when fitness goals are achievable and workouts are challenging but FUN!  The WERQ warmup starts with a standard dancer warmup to literally warm up the muscles and joints getting us all ready to move.   Once warmed up WERQ Instructors take moves directly from the choreography to follow in class previewing them and giving our students a sneak peek at the steps to come.  For veteran students it reminds them of the trickier moves and lets them know what songs are coming in class.  For new students it gives them a little knowledge to prepare them to nail the moves later in class.  After such an energetic hour the WERQ cooldown is the perfect way to conclude class.  I love the slower pace and the great feeling of stretching tired muscles.  Practicing balance helps build core muscles and makes our students stronger, more stable and more confident!  WERQ can help students achieve and maintain a healthy weight while teaching the heart and lungs to operate more efficiently.  I want to grow this brand.  I want to help people achieve their goals the way WERQ helped me achieve mine!”

WERQ Rep #6 Kim Rickenbaker and WERQ Rep #26 Brandy Ramey

Brandy Ramey is an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor who started teaching in Mt. Pleasant South Carolina.  She has since moved to the Miami Florida area.  Brandy completed WERQ Instructor Training in April 2013.”WERQ has made me such a better person.  I am happier, healthier, and well-balanced because of my experiences with WERQ.  I originally became a WERQ instructor because I loved dancing and music.  I didn’t know much about the brand, but I knew I wanted to teach fitness classes.  I fell in love with being a WERQ instructor when I realized that it is so much more than a dance workout.  It is the perfect way to get in shape, stay in shape, and to improve your life.  The cardiovascular endurance that I have built because of teaching and taking WERQ classes has made me a more confident athlete.  The physiological changes WERQ has given me have made me choose more adventurous activities in my spare time because I have so much more energy than I use to.  For example, I have made plans to enter my first 10K and am seriously considering training for a marathon.  Being a WERQ Rep will provide even more opportunities to share how the WERQ brand brings a fit lifestyle to a WERQaholic’s life.I have seen WERQ grow in the low-country of South Carolina over the past year.  It amazes me every time I think about how it stemmed from 1 person introducing this format to a small town.  I am thankful to have been a part of this growth and hope to use the WERQ Rep title to help the WERQ brand spread even farther through the SC region.”

Saydee Reyes has always had a love for music and dance.  WERQ added a love for fitness.

“I love being part of my students journey to getting fit while having the most fun one can have while working out. It has changed my life and I want to continue spreading the WERQ love not just here in SC but everywhere.

WERQ Rep #27 Saydee Reyes

WERQ is the perfect mixture of Fitness and Dance in a workout. It is Achievable. It is Fierce. It is Current. WERQ classes will build up your cardiovascular ability, boost your brain power, improve your memory and coordination and strengthen your core. It relieves stress and makes your body stronger.  Confidence leads to fun/Divatude which turns students into WERQaholics!  WERQ’s 3Q1 method of cueing class is essential to making WERQ achievable.  There is no guessing what move comes next.  Students are guided move to move fluidly which translates to confidence as a student.”  Saydee holds an AFAA Primary Group Fitness Certification.

WERQ Rep #28 Melissa Sperko

Melissa Sperko‘s first experience with WERQ was a Friday night master class with WERQ Master Trainer Julie Steffen and WERQ Rep #6 Kim Rickenbaker before Instructor Training the following Sunday.  ”I was one of those students that came to check it out with a quiet “show me what you’ve got” attitude…  From that moment on all I could do was WERQ.  It was more than just current music and choreography that attracted me to the format.  During training learning and hearing what WERQ stood for and expected from its instructors is what sold me.  I have been a Physical Therapist (PTA) for 17 years and it was music to my ears that WERQ Instructors have to meet a fitness certification requirement giving them a basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology that is needed to be a great instructor!  The class layout with the warmup previewing the dance steps used in class helps students achieve and sets them up for success.  Balance poses in the cooldown is icing on the cake – it’s so important to practice and maintain this skill as we age.  WERQ was what I had been looking for.  I believe in the core values of WERQ and love what it offers to both students and Instructors!”

WERQ would like to recognize our newest Reps for teaching WERQ at the highest level. CONGRATULATIONS SKYLA, BRANDY, SAYDEE AND MELISSA!  WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

South Carolina WERQaholics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South Carolina Attitude

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Andriana Pachella to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #29. Dri teaches WERQ at ENRGi Fitness in Chicago, IL.  She holds a valid NASM Certified Personal Trainer Certification.

Dri has been known to begin class by saying “welcome to my favorite hour of my week” and we can tell she means it.  ”I look forward to teaching WERQ all day and I look forward to my WERQ days all week.  I left my first WERQ class 2 years ago thinking “how do I get involved with this brand” and once certified I’ve wanted to be WERQ Rep and be a good ambassador for this awesome format!”

WERQ Co-Creator Julie Steffen has been known to drop into Dri’s class at ENRGi.  ”Dri has an amazing way of being herself within the WERQ format.  While WERQ Choreography is consistent from instructor to instructor, it’s fun to watch instructors like Dri put their personal style and personality into that structure.  I genuinely enjoy taking Dri’s class and watching her rock this format!”, says Julie.

Dri describes WERQ as a party and loves the way WERQ Instructors treat each class like can’t-miss events.  ”WERQ gets people into the gym on a consistent basis because people look forward to this class every week!  At ENRGi we have a population of members who pay a gym membership JUST TO TAKE WERQ CLASSES!  The music is currently charting, radio hits which you would hear in the club (or the grocery store aisle for those of us who haven’t been to a club since college) so participants are already familiar with and love the music…  Like any good cardio workout WERQ increases heart and lung capacity, increases endurance and burns calories but WERQ also strengthens muscles using fitness-based moves like squats/lunges/standing crunches etc fatiguing the muscles in your arms, legs and abs.  The Yoga Inspired Cooldown helps improve balance which is a key element to injury prevention.  Wherever the fitness industry may lead me in the future, WERQ will come with me as I cannot imagine not teaching this class!”

WERQ would like to recognize Dri for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS DRI!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

FEATURED IMAGE:  Heather Christy and Sara Burhans teaching at Just Move Fitness and More.

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Sara Burhans to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #30. Sara teaches WERQ at Just Move Fitness and More located at 626 Romence Road in Portage Michigan .  She holds a valid ACE Personal Trainer Certification.

“I waited almost a year from the time that Just Move Co-Owner Heather Christy launched WERQ in Kalamazoo to get my WERQ Certification because I LOVED (like really really LOVED) taking the class.  I still have a blast being a participant when I’m not teaching!  WERQ is the most physically challenging dance fitness format I’ve participated in/taught.  I have zero dance training but I love to dance and I love fitness – I’ve taken every format out there and WERQ is my favorite!

WERQ is dance fitness done well.  It’s relevant, fun, and accessible to a broad audience.  The WERQ warmup previews parts of the choreography from the playlist to follow which builds muscle memory – when our bodies have done something once we store it in our muscle memory and once it’s there we are able to work harder, bigger and stronger! The cooldown uses yoga inspired balance poses to build core strength as well as stretch the muscles.

WERQ Instructors are well trained.  They know they are required to hold a fitness certification in addition to a license to WERQ.  Educated instructors are better teachers.  WERQ increased cardiovascular endurance, range of motion, and coordination connecting the body and the mind.

Just Move Fitness and More offers 6 WERQ classes a week as of June 2014.  I love mentoring some of our newer instructors and we are committed to the idea of team teaching.  We all learn from each other!  As a facility owner, WERQ helps us stand out – we have this amazing program – I love that and I brag about that!”

For more information about Just Move Fitness and More please visit their website HERE.

WERQ would like to recognize Sara for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS SARA!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

WERQaholics and WERQ Instructors pictured at Just Move after a CharityWERQ class!

FEATURED IMAGE:  WERQ Reps #1 Kiley Elfring, #31 Amber McInnes and #19 Annette Dalloo.

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Amber McInnes to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #31. Amber teaches WERQ in the greater Detroit Michigan area at Body Language Fitness & Yoga Center, Powerhouse Gym in Novi, Z Spot in Plymouth and New Wixom Dance Academy.  She holds a valid AFAA Group Exercise Instructor Certification.

Amber was a professional dancer, teacher and choreographer for years performing at a variety of venues from cruise ships to back-up dancing/music videos.  While living in the LA, area Amber got her start in the fitness world teaching fitness to children and began to develop a passion for health and fitness.  When Amber was transferred to Chicago she stumbled upon a WERQ Class at XSport Fitness in Lakeview with WERQ Rep #4 Allison Mecher.  ”I instantly fell in LOVE!!!!  I was thrilled to find a way to combine my passions for dance and fitness, all while making people forget they were exercising and just enjoying their WERQout.  I knew I had found something very special and I wanted to bring it back to my hometown.  I feel prifledged to offer the people of Metro Detroit the WERQ Experience and just one year after moving home my classes are exploding!  Many of my devoted WERQaholics want to become Instructors themselves!”, says Amber.

“I love the constant addition of new music taken right from the charts.  WERQ is choreographed to be achievable and fun for everyone – even those without a dance background or those who think “I can’t dance”.  The WERQ Warmup really helps make a class achievable.  It provides students with an opportunity to practice some of the more difficult or complex sequences before the WERQout session begins by previews many of the dance steps seen throughout the WERQ class. Students become familiar with the cueing process and it helps them build confidence.  Muscle memory WERQs wonders!”

WERQ Rep #1 and Choreography QREW member Kiley Elfring is from the Detroit area and drops into Amber’s classes when she’s back in the Mitten.  ”Amber’s classes are amazing.  Her top notch cueing and addictive energy make her the best of the best.  Detroit is FINALLY WERQin’ thanks to Amber and her 8+classes a week!”

WERQ Rep #4 and Choreography QREW member Allison Mecher is loving watching her former student thrive.  ”Amber used to take my WERQ Class when she lived in Chicago and she was always a stand-out student.  I’m so proud to see her accepted into the WERQ Rep program and teaching so successfully in the Detroit area!”

WERQ would like to recognize Amber for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS AMBER!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

FEATURED IMAGE:  Galit Rosenblatt, WERQ Rep #32 Danielle Porte, and Ashley Hogue.

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Danielle Porte to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #32. Danielle teaches WERQ in the Northern Chicago suburbs at Glenview Park Center, Equinox Fitness Highland Park and Wheeling Park District. She holds a valid AFAA Group Exercise Instructor Certification.

“I whole-heartedly believe in the WERQ brand and everything it stands for.   I walked into my first WERQ class in January of 2012 with WERQ Master Trainer Haley Stone and was instantly hooked.  It was the first time I took a fitness class and never looked at the clock.  I rocked out to amazing music while sweating my butt off for an hour and left wanting more.  I view WERQ in many of the same ways I view life.  It takes hard work and dedication to do it well. You have to take your job as an instructor seriously, but you cannot take yourself seriously.  You must be confident in your abilities and strive to help others.  You must enjoy it and have fun! It thrills me when my participants leave my class dripping sweat with huge smiles on their faces.  Watching them WERQ hard makes me WERQ even harder.  I love the sense of community that WERQ has built among its participants and WERQforce. I want to be a part of the team that continues to take this brand to the next level.  I want to share my passion and enthusiasm for WERQ with others.

The 3Q1 Method allows me to give my participants a heads up as to what move is coming next using visual or auditory cues. Cueing is essential for a successful WERQ class.  WERQ is designed to be achievable by all participants no matter the age and/or fitness background.  As an instructor, strong cues are my top priority.  My cueing allows for all of my participants to continually follow the dance routines. I believe the 3Q1 Method is one of the (many) reasons that participants return weekly for class. Regardless of their dance background/ability, they can feel confident in executing the routines because of the 3Q1 Method of cueing.”

WERQ would like to recognize Danielle for teaching WERQ at the highest level.  

CONGRATULATIONS DANIELLE!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

Pictured above:   Annette Dalloo

WERQ Fitness would like to welcome Annette Dalloo to the WERQ Rep Program as WERQ Rep #19. 

Annette Dalloo, WERQ REP #18

Annette completed WERQ Instructor Training in November of 2012 and teaches WERQ in Downtown Chicago.  She is an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor.

“I want to further inspire people to get involved in the WERQ brand.  I want to help people find fitness they LOVE and WERQ does it all.”  ~  Annette Dalloo

Annette is the definition of a WERQaholic.

She started taking WERQ with WERQ Master Trainer Haley Stone at Cheetah Gyms in Chicago and to say she was hooked is an understatement.  She had found the fitness format that would make her look forward to going to the gym!  A year later Annette became a Certified WERQ Instructor and AFAA Group Fitness Instructor.  “I had been wanting to start teaching WERQ for a while but feared if I did it would become “a job” and I would no longer love my WERQ class experience – but the exact opposite has happened.  It has not only become something I look forward to on an almost daily basis but something that I am so proud to be a part of.  I still take classes when I’m not teaching and it’s just as fun as it was that first class I took 3 years ago”.

When not WERQing, Annette owns her own design business Dalloo Design, Inc. and has started working with the WERQ Marketing Team to further the WERQ brand nationally.  Annette helps WERQ HQ design logos, fliers, postcards and other miscellaneous marketing design work.    “Being a designer by day, I spend a good portion of the day sitting behind my desk.  I was looking for a class that would make me look forward to going to the gym, and I found it.  I have been on a weight loss journey for about three years, have lost over 60 pounds and I have kept it off. WERQ has been a really big part of that.”

WERQ would like to recognize Annette for her thankless behind the scenes contributions to the WERQ marketing effort and for being such a positive example of what the WERQ brand is and represents.  

CONGRATULATIONS ANNETTE!  

WERQ Reps are WERQ Instructors hand-selected by WERQ Fitness, LLC in recognition of their contributions to the WERQ brand.  Reps earn their titles by demonstrating a strong commitment to the WERQ format and strong understanding of the WERQ brand.  For more information about the WERQ Rep program click here.  Each WERQ Rep plays a slightly different role.  Some Reps are selected for their contributions to growing the WERQ brand worldwide through assisting with booking and facilitating trainings.   Some Reps are selected for their celebrity star power.  Some Reps are selected for their mastery of cueing and exceptional dance ability.  Some Reps are selected to the WERQ QREW for their ability to write and contribute WERQ Choreography.  The entire Rep team WERQs together toward one goal – bringing the joy of WERQ to more WERQaholics and enriching more lives though the WERQ class experience.

Pictured below:  Annette with her students at Cheetah Gym Edgewater and Annette with fellow WERQ Instructors at HiFi Personal Fitness.

Annette with WERQaholics at Cheetah Gym Edgewater

Annette with fellow WERQ Instructors at HiFi Personal Fitness in Chicago.

For some, it’s a long holiday weekend so we are starting the weekend NOW! Today’s Teacher Feature will introduce you to our NEWEST WERQ Rep, Kayla Thomas, from Springfield, IL. Kayla is an awesome addition to the WERQ Rep Team and we are thrilled to introduce you to her. Welcome, Kayla!

Name: Kayla Thomas

City, State, and facilities where you WERQ: Gus & Flora Kerasote’s YMCA- Springfield, IL; University of Illinois at Springfield- Springfield, IL; Rock Steady Boxing- Taylorville, IL

How long have you been a WERQ Instructor/What inspired you to become certified?  I took the jump and went to WERQ Instructor training in August of 2015.  I stumbled upon WERQ during my husband’s two year fellowship training in Madison, WI and knew I was on a countdown to the end of time there.  I could not imagine moving somewhere that I wouldn’t be able to take a WERQ class, so I decided I would just have to teach it and bring it with me!

When do you do when you aren’t WERQing?  I’m an independent SeneGence distributor.  LipSense is my game, and a bright, bold lip that stays is my game!  When I’m not working my small business, you’ll find me in the weight room lifting, playing with my two little boys, refinishing some furniture, or surprising my husband with some sort of new house project (I’m more handy than he probably wishes with a  sledge hammer and a saw, y’all).

Team Pop or Hip Hop? Why?  This is a tough one!  I really love both.  The, “Kinda diva, kinda hood.” WERQ graphic speaks to me, but think I’m sitting slightly more in team Hip Hop.  It’s further away from my norm as a small town central IL girl, so it really allows my alter ego to come out in full force!

How did you find WERQ/decide to become an instructor?  One of my boot camp class buddies invited me to a WERQ class.  I was really hesitant to go.  I insisted I was NOT a dancer.  I went anyway, and stood in the back row and stumbled my way through class, laughing at myself the whole time.  When the instructor announced that Friday’s class would have a different instructor, but the same choreography for the songs, I decided to try it again.  I was hooked!  Every class I went to became a little easier, and I started to relax and let WERQ take hold!  I’m not a dancer by background, but I most definitely can dance.

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ? Why? WERQ brings so much confidence to people! My favorite thing about teaching WERQ is seeing the smiles on people’s faces.  I’ve been in a lot of classes, and this is the only one where I notice the participants beaming.  There’s something about getting up in front of a bunch of people who probably mostly wouldn’t consider themselves dancers, but nevertheless have found themselves in a dance fitness class, and connecting with them.  It’s so fun to watch as we get a few songs in and they start really feeling themselves and letting loose, and forgetting about who else is in the room and what they may think.  I love that WERQ can be enough of an escape from whatever craziness the world is throwing at them… that for an hour it’s just happiness, dancing and not feeling the weight of it all.  WERQ isn’t just great for the body, it’s great for the mind, and soul.  It’s empowering, and I love being the vessel that brings all of that to my community.

What can participants expect from your class?  Come ready to sweat!  I promise to always bring you something new, something fun, and something interactive. I love to dancing with my class, so expect that at some point I may be right up in your bubble cheering you on and shaking it with you.  YOU make my days better by dancing with me, and I’m sure to express it with a giant smile, a nod of encouragement, and lots of hooting and hollering!

What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine? Why?  Good question!  I think I have a new favorite every week!  If I’m limited to one song though, I’m going to go with Take U There, partially for the sake of nostalgia.  I still remember doing it when I just started taking WERQ classes as a participant, but I also love the extremes in it.  It goes from this pretty, slow, flowy arm movement, to aggressive punches, hops, and quirky pendulum kicks.  It’s high/low, pretty/gritty all in one!

What would you tell someone who is thinking about taking a WERQ class for the first time?  Just go!  The first class is going to be the hardest, but it gets easier every week.  You don’t have to be a dancer.  You don’t have to be in shape.  You just have to take the first step and go.  Oh- and don’t forget your water bottle.  You’re going to need it!

WE LOVE THE WAY YOU WERQ IT, KAYLA!

Happy Friday, all! We have a BIG announcement…..we’d like to congratulate WERQforce member Tenille Fick from Kenosha, WI on becoming the newest WERQrep. We are excited to introduce you all to her on the blog today. Welcome, Tenille!

Name: Tenille Fick

City, State, and facilities where you WERQ: Kenosha, WI at the Kenosha YMCA

How long have you been a WERQ Instructor? Since August 2016

Team Pop, Rock, or Hip Hop? 100%, hands down, without a doubt, HIP HOP. I mean don’t get me wrong, Pop and Rock are fun too, but I was nicknamed “white chocolate” by one of my WERQaholics for a reason! Hip Hop all day, ERRDAY!!

How did you find WERQ/decide to become an instructor? I have been teaching other fitness formats for nearly 20 years and have been a group exercise supervisor for half of that. I’ve always felt strongly that a Hip Hip/Pop dance fitness format would be successful, but couldn’t ever find what I was looking for. About a year ago, I had been looking at possibly adding at another dance format to our schedule, but then heard about WERQ from one of the instructors on my fitness team. Because of her recommendation, I checked it out online. I can’t remember which song/clip I watched, all I remember is that I wanted to get up from my desk and start dancing to it!! It was in that moment that I knew we needed this format on our schedule at the Kenosha YMCA ASAP, so I signed up for the next available certification which was 90 minutes away! I had never even BEEN to a WERQ class before the Master class at the certification, because there weren’t any in my area. It was SO much fun, and I’m beyond grateful to my instructor for telling me about WERQ so that I could attend! Not only has WERQ added new life to our group exercise schedule, it’s added new life to MY life!!

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ? The fact that my brain, and of course my body, are constantly being challenged by learning new songs. I also love the fact that I can frequently introduce new things to my class. They never know what’s coming, and neither of us ever gets bored! What can participants expect from your class? Lots of energy, lots of sass, and lots of FUN! I will push them out of their comfort zones, but I guarantee they will be smiling the entire time!!

What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine and why? Ummmm, can I pass on this question?? Because it’s impossible to pick just one! I guess I can say that my favorite is always the next/new one I’m learning because I enjoy the challenge. If I DID have to pick just one however, I suppose it would be Purple Lamborghini. I love the energy and aggressiveness of it, and how so many people get out of their comfort zones doing it. Plus that’s the one that earned me my nickname, so it has a special place in my heart. ☺

Hey, hey, hey!! We have someone awesome to celebrate today on the WERQ blog. Meet our newest WERQrep, Monica Avila, from Madison, WI. Congratulations on becoming a WERQrep, Monica. Welcome to the team!

Name: Monica Avila 

City, State, and facilities where you WERQ: Fitchburg, WI at Gold’s Gym 

How long have you been a WERQ Instructor? I’ve been a certified WERQ instructor for four years. 

Team Pop or Hip Hop? I am all the way Team Hip Hop for many reasons. One is that I grew up knowing and loving Hip Hop. My older brother Rene is an award-winning Wisconsin State champion break-dancer. He started break-dancing at a very young age, and I would watch him practice for hours… sometimes even pulling the cardboard box outside so that he and the neighborhood kids could battle it out. The beats and movements of the Hip Hop world is why I fell in love with Hip Hop.

How did you find WERQ/decide to become an instructor? I was inspired to become certified in WERQ after attending a WERQ class with Master Trainer, Christina Outlay. An instructor so strong in her performance, she led a high-energy class making myself and those around me feel so fierce – it was the way I felt in that moment that made me decide to become certified. I really wanted to be able to give that same feeling that I received during my first WERQ experience to others.

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ?  I most enjoy teaching WERQ because it makes people feel amazing. For me WERQ is my “Me” time, my time to shine and be my own superstar. I love giving people that one hour of exhilaration; that fast-paced, energizing dance experience.

The people who come to my class can expect high energy, great music, a killer workout and a LOT of fun!  It’s an environment where every skill level is welcome and represented, and there are no mistakes – only super awesome solos!

What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine and why? My favorite Werq routine would have to be Acapella – is that weird for a Team HipHop girl? LOL! The routine was great choreography, and that really can make a song. I feel like a rockstar and have SO much fun when I do that song!

Way to WERQ it, Monica!

Not only is it a GREAT day because #GETLIFTED is finally here, but we also have a NEW WERQrep to announce. Please put your hands together for Lizzy Selzer from Bloomington, IL. Welcome to the team, Lizzy!

Name: Lizzy Selzer

City, State, and facilities where you WERQ: Bloomington/Normal, IL at Gold’s Gym and Bromenn Integrated Wellness Partners (IWP)

How long have your been a WERQ Instructor/What inspired you to become certified? I became a certified WERQ instructor in May of 2016, have been teaching for the last 9 months…and I love it!

Last year I decided I wanted to take back control of my health and fitness and after jumping into an intense workout routine, I injured my wrist.  So I started checking my gym schedule to see if there were any classes I could get into while my wrist was healing and I saw something called WERQ.  I have always loved dancing and I have a performance background so I thought, “Why not??”  I walked into my first class, completely unsure of what to expect. We started and I was totally lost! I felt everyone was killing it and I had no idea what I was doing and I almost walked out. But I stayed and then I came back…again…and again…and again.  I started meeting new people and taking classes from different instructors and before I knew it, I was full-blown WERQaholic…and loving every minute!

 After taking WERQ for a few months, my instructor and Master Trainer Karen Osborne, started chatting with me about going through the certification and eventually becoming an instructor.  I had been thinking about the certification for a while and knew there was a training coming up in our area, so I decided to take a leap and go for it along with a friend, and fellow WERQaholic Carrie Peterson Roberts, and I’m so grateful I did!

What do you do when you aren’t WERQing? When I am not WERQing, I work for a NON-for-profit health base federation raising funds and awareness for over 2,000 Health Charities locally & nationwide…or I am making Cake balls and posting way too many pictures & hashtags on Instagram #sorrynotsorry ;D

Team Pop or Hip Hop? Why? Oh, goodness….I would say I am right smack dab in the middle (and I literally just dabbed while typing that…).  I love a killer pop anthem, anything from Britney or Beyoncé, but then a hip-hop beat drops and gives me all the feels!!!!  If I HAD to choose a side…I guess I am more team hip-hop.  But just barely!!! We are talking 51%-49%

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ? Why? Watching my participants let go of everything and just be free on the dance floor. For me, WERQ is my release from whatever is going on in my day-to-day life.  My mind feels totally clear and free, and all my emotions come out when I am dancing.  When I look out and see that my class is 100% with me, having just as much fun as I am, loving a new routine or being excited about a throwback, stopping me after class to say how much fun they had or how that hour in the studio was the highlight to a an otherwise super stressful day, that is what makes my heart happy and that is why I love teaching WERQ.  (I may have fought back happy tear once or twice while teaching…and I may have also lost that fight once or twice…)

What can participants expect from your class? When participants come to my class, they ca n expect a killer, high-energy playlist from start to finish!  Always a solid mix of pop & hip-hop (I told you, I cannot choose!), new favorite routines and classic throwbacks, and yes, you will leave exhausted and sweaty to which I will say, “You’re Welcome and I can’t wait to see you next class!”

What would you tell someone who is thinking about taking a WERQ class for the first time? Try it!  And bring a friend!  You may feel totally lost during your first few classes; I know did, but keep coming back!  It gets easier! Before you know it, your mind and body will start working together, anticipating what is coming next and you will be so caught up in jamming to the music that you will wonder why you were ever nervous in the first place!

What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine? Why? BURNITUP! By Janet Jackson ft. Missy Elliot. This song is the best of both worlds!!!  Pop AND Hip-Hop! (I really can’t choose!!!)  This song has so many different levels and layers and everyone can add their own style or “sauce” to it.  You get the pop elements but then the hip-hop side sneaks in like BOOM-BOOM-POW!!! (See what I did there?? ;D) Whenever I pop this song back onto my list, my regulars are super excited when they hear the intro and my new participants pick it up so fast they look like pros.

Way to WERQ it, Lizzy!

We are thrilled to be coming to you on this Friday to share some awesome news. We would like to introduce Utah’s first WERQrep, Saffire Dawson. Welcome to the blog, Saffire!

Name: Saffire Dawson

City, state, and facilities where you WERQ? Fitstop Health Club, Heber City, UT

How long have you been a WERQ Instructor/What inspired you to become certified?  I became a WERQ Instructor a little over 3 years ago.  I wanted to become certified after taking Jenny Wilson’s class and seeing the positive changes that WERQ had on my life.  I wanted to have the same effect on others as Jenny had on me.  I wanted to create an energetic, positive, fun, and friendly environment that people would be able to come together to better themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.   

What do you do when you aren’t WERQing?  First, I am a wife and a mama. My husband and my 8yr old son make my life pretty awesome.   I am also a designer working mostly in residential, but have recently been designing in commercial settings as well.

Team Pop or Hip-Hop? Why? While I love them both… I am definitely team Hip-Hop because I don’t think I could feel any cooler than when I am pretending to have swag while wearing panda pants. 

How did you find WERQ? Miss Jenny Wilson brought it to Utah and I got to be lucky enough to be in some of her first classes.

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ? Why?  My favorite thing is watching my students going from telling me that they are the most awkward dancers to full on dropping it without anything holding them back.  I love knowing that I helped create an environment that people can make friends, let loose, and maybe find a side of themselves that they didn’t even know was there.

What can participants expect from your class?  Smiles, Dancing, and SWEAT

 What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine? Why? Oh my, picking one is so hard. I have so many favorites. Today I will say Wild for the Night because it is the first routine that I fell in love with in my first class that I took and it has graced my playlists many times since.   

What would you tell someone who is thinking about taking a WERQ class for the first time?  DO IT!!! Don’t worry about what you don’t know or how you might look.  Go and just have fun! If you do that, you will come away feeling happy, successful, and will have burned a LOT of calories. The benefits that come from dance fitness are just too great to pass up. 

Congratulations, Saffire! Welcome to the WERQrep Team!

We are thrilled to announce our newest WERQrep. Natalie McClure has been WERQing hard to grow WERQ in her area. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Natalie to the blog.

Name: Natalie McClure

City, state, and facilities where you WERQ: South Bend/Notre Dame/Granger, IN – Teach at TSB Fitness Studio, University of Notre Dame, and Saint Mary’s College.

How long have you been a WERQ Instructor/What inspired you to become certified? I was certified in April 2017 and started teaching in July that year. A close friend who lives in Chicago took me to my first WERQ class taught by Haley in 2012. I was instantly obsessed and I remember telling my friend “I wish I could take this class every day.” I was only able WERQ when I would go visit her for a weekend, but I day dreamed about being an instructor for years. About 5 months after my youngest was born, I was at a low point. I was stressed and physically very weak and I decided I needed to finally make some dreams come true and I registered for a training!

What do you do when you aren’t WERQing (additional work/job)? Balancing life as a wife and mother to Kieran (5yrs) and Mina (2.5yrs), with a full time job for an educational start-up.

Team Pop or Hip-Hop? Why? I’m Team ATTITUDE! Whether it’s pop or hip-hop, if the song evokes that “get-it-own-it-snap-your-hand-in-a-Z-formation-bad-a$$” attitude, then I’m all over it.

What is your favorite thing about teaching WERQ? Why? The COMMUNITY hands down. Not only the relationships I have made with participants and other instructors in town, but the friendships made with other members of the WERQforce and incredible support they graciously give via social media.

What can participants expect from your class? An hour of fun, facials, and sweat! 

What would you tell someone who is thinking about taking a WERQ class for the first time? You will make my day if you come dance with me! You have to come and try it, and I guarantee you are going to not only get a GREAT workout, but you are going to have a BLAST and leave not only feeling energized but with a few more new friends! No dance experience needed, WERQ is for EVERY-body!

What is your ALL TIME favorite WERQ routine? Why? Ohhhh baby. Talk about an impossible question to answer. The more routines I discover (like some of the older ones), the harder it gets. I’m a fan of all Ciara songs right now like “Dose” and “Freak Me”, and I especially love “Got Me Good”. We call it the “peak” of our playlist right now

CONGRATULATIONS, Natalie! We love the way you WERQ it.