Elkie Beninati
Certified Jazzercise Instructor
Qualifications
About Coach
I was a professional dancer for over 15 years specializing in musical theater/jazz. I was a proud member of the Actor’s Equity Association and performed all over the world doing what I loved! Eventually with having a family that lifestyle wasn’t possible anymore, unfortunately. I missed dancing SO MUCH. A friend of mine brought me to a Jazzercise class and I was instantly hooked. The moves! The music! The people! I lost all of my baby weight and then some. But more importantly, I met lifelong friends, improved my health, gained strength, and became happier! I loved the program so much that I became an instructor and have been teaching since March 2006.
Turning Point
Unfortunately, I had some setbacks with my Jazzercise teaching. In 2019 I injured my knee and felt that if I couldn’t teach at 100% then I shouldn’t teach at all. Young and foolish, right? Right. In 2020 (of all years!)I was diagnosed with a very aggressive type of breast cancer at the age of 42. I really was not sure if I would make it. When I thought about the happiest times in my life, Jazzercise was high up there. As my treatments got a little easier I started taking classes again. Oh, the joy that returned to my life as a result! About a week after my last chemotherapy session I took the plunge and certified again to teach! I am thrilled to say I am in remission right now and thriving! If My point in explaining these setbacks is that I learned we don’t have to strive for perfection. We are all perfectly imperfect and that is celebrated and nourished at Jazzercise. We ALL have limitations, handicaps, etc and still are fierce and fabulous. If I can do Jazzercise SO CAN YOU! :)
Motivation & Passion
I am a firm believer that the best workout for you is the workout you enjoy. Exercise should be fun! It also should be challenging and provide results. I promise you that you will be equally smiling and sweating with me!
