Frequently Asked Questions

We ❤️ questions. In fact, we’d probably yap about the studio all day if you let us. In the interest of time, here’s answers to some of the most common questions we hear. 

If there’s anything else we can answer for you, don’t hesitate to email (hello@downbeatfit.com) or call us (919-505-0695). 

  • We’re targeting a spring 2026 opening date. We’ll share a firm date as construction and inspections progress. Fingers crossed for a smooth buildout so we can start dancing sooner!

  • Yes! We’re planning pop up classes with our fabulous instructors. Join our email list to be notified when things are happening. If you’re a local business open to hosting a pop up class, we’d LOVE to work with you. Shoot us an email or give us a call.

  • Nope, not in the slightest! All our dance fitness classes are taught using a simple, approachable system. You’ll start by marching in place, then add on footwork, arms, and technique to break down each move. We’ll put moves back-to-back to form combinations, and by the end of the class you’ll have learned a whole mini-choreography. 

    Because we build up the moves from the very basics, modifications are always clearly available and encouraged. There is tons of repetition (essential for learning), but it’s never boring. The goal of these classes is to move, not to dance perfectly (although you’ll certainly improve your dance skills as well).

    ALSO. Everyone starts somewhere, and if you’re feeling self-conscious about being a beginner don’t stress about it. Want us to send you embarrassing videos of our instructors when they first started out? We totally will. 

  • Fabulous. Our classes are taught using choreography blocks and the add-on method, which means you’ll be working up to a mini-choreography throughout the class. 

    This allows us to teach more complex choreography than you might see in other dance fitness classes. We like to think of it as a real dance class, just with a higher heart rate. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to play with technique and styling, and your instructors will offer you suggestions to kick things up a notch. Creativity is encouraged - and celebrated! 

  • Unless a class is specifically designated otherwise, the minimum age to participate is 18. At Downbeat, we recognize many adults haven’t had the opportunity to explore creative movement in a safe and non-judgemental atmosphere. We believe adults-only spaces, especially those inclusive of older adults, can help people feel confident as they expand their movement comfort zone. 

    On occasion, we will offer teen classes (open to participants ages 13-18) or guardian+child classes. These classes will be clearly designated on the schedule and labeled with the ages they are appropriate for. In order for anyone under the age of 18 to participate, a parent or guardian must sign a waiver in person.  

    That being said, we understand the importance of family-friendly options! We’re happy to recommend gyms and studios in the area we think offer a great family experience if you ask.

  • We don’t allow anyone in a class who isn’t signed up to participate, since observers can make others in the class feel a bit awkward. But we get it - going into something new with no prior knowledge can be nerve-wracking. Feel free to call, text, or email us with any questions you may have (even if you think they’re silly).

  • We certainly hope so! We aim to create a space where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to explore movement. As long as you’re not rude to other members, we’d love to have you. 

    If you need accommodations to participate in a class, we encourage you to reach out to us in advance so we can work with you to make sure you have a great experience.

  • Yes…and no. Exercise, especially fun activities like dance fitness, is a fantastic part of a healthy lifestyle and can help you feel more fit, more energized, and less stressed. When it comes to weight loss, though, it's often about looking at the bigger picture—like nutrition, sleep, and stress management. Focus on finding an exercise routine you enjoy and can stick with, because consistency and balance are what really make a difference in the long run. We can also give you a referral to professionals who can help you with the aspects of weight loss that go beyond exercise.

    That being said: you are more than your weight! We know it’s a lot easier said than done, but your fitness goals can be so much more than just a number on the scale. If you want to build confidence and stamina so you can dance all night without waking up the next day with an aching back, we can absolutely help you with that.

  • Eww no. We’ve got way better things to do than argue with someone who needs to cancel their membership. All our memberships are month-to-month, with no time commitments. We want you here because you want to be here, not because you’re forced into a sleazy contract. 

    Once you sign up for a membership, you’ll be able to book classes up to 20 days in advance. Memberships will auto-renew monthly. If you are on a limited membership (4 or 8 classes/month), unused credits will roll over to the next month.

    You can easily adjust or cancel your membership online, in-person, or by calling/texting/emailing us. If you cancel your membership, you’ll have access to classes and unused credits until the end of that billing period, after which you will be removed from any future classes. 

    Need more flexibility? Drop-in classes and 10 class packs are also available. 

    You can view current membership and class pack pricing on our pricing page. 

  • No and yes.

    No - we do not rent space for instructors to host their own weekly dance or fitness classes, private lessons, or personal training sessions. This is to avoid confusing our clients and ensure pricing is consistent across all classes held at the studio. Instead, let’s chat about hiring you and adding your class/private session availability to our schedule instead. Reach out to us at hello@downbeatfit.com.

    Yes - we do rent space for one-time workshops, special events, private parties, and closed rehearsals. Text/email/call us and let’s chat about your event needs. We’re always interested in partnering to put on events at our studio, and we’d love to hear your ideas. 

  • Oh hell yeah! We LOVE referrals. Feel free to send them to our careers page for more information on open positions at the studio. Or let them know to reach out to us at hello@downbeatfit.com.