Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Thompson.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m a professional dancer in Los Angeles and the creator of Body Dada, a new fitness studio in Highland Park. I grew up dancing in NY at the Ailey School and came to LA to receive my degree at California Institute of the Arts. I’ve performed all over the city, with companies like LA Contemporary Dance Company and always turned to barre to keep me performance ready. I was an instructor with Pop Physique for many years, training countless bodies and eventually formed my own energetic style!
Has it been a smooth road?
Starting a new business without a recognizable name has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’m learning a lot, like how to balance work and life, and I’m gaining a lot of new understanding about what it means to be a business owner. I’m trying to seize every moment while staying zen about not being able to do it all on my own. I’m so grateful for the team around me, and the beautiful people who walk in the door making it all worth it! We’re building this together. It’s so important to have people around you that support you and I feel very lucky in that regard.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Body Dada story. Tell us more about the business.
Body Dada is a fitness studio. We offer our signature version of barre along with guided stretch classes. We’re more personal than others, and we’re definitely more inclusive. We’re for everyone, all ages, shapes, backgrounds and identities.
Body Dada got its name from the Dada art movement in the early 20th century. I’m inspired by the rebellious energy of the Dadaists and people who push the boundaries. Sometimes taking care of yourself can be a radical act and we acknowledge that. Lotte Berk, the mother of barre technique herself was a radical, forward-thinking woman.
We’re challenging ourselves and each other every time we come into the studio in a completely supportive, noncompetitive environment.
Coming soon are dance classes! We can’t wait to offer more ways to let your body be free in here. We’ll warm up, go across the floor, and learn an easy to follow but beautiful and fun combination. Come try us!
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Fitness and wellness will continue to merge into a greater lifestyle sector that generally relates to the currents in art, fashion, and music. And in terms of the growth of our studio, I hope to be here for a long time, pulse-ing and tuck-ing forever. Self-love and personal care shouldn’t stop when we age, and I imagine doing this and growing with my clients until we’re all technically senior citizens. And if you are older, you are welcome here!
Pricing:
- New Client Special $99 Unlimited Monthly Body Dada + Stretch classes!
- First Class Free through December!
Contact Info:
- Address: 5709 N Figueroa St.
- Website: bodydada.com
- Phone: 213 282 7623
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @bodydadala
Image Credit:
Photo Marissa Mooney and Angeline Dy
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