Island Groove™ Video Demo

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About Island Groove™

Island Groove™ is an intense yet fun-packed, free-spirited dance aerobic

programme that takes you on a carnival and festive journey through music and dance to the different exotic islands and countries of the captivating Caribbean.

Island Groove™ is designed to effectively burn calories, enhances cardio

respiratory fitness, improve muscular strength and flexibility while you SET YOUR SPIRIT FREE carnival style, liberate your soul and UNLEASH.

Whether it is Trinidad, Jamaica, Cuba or Belize, Island Groove™ gets you

going in the appropriate dance traditions. And there is no holding back—everything is done the way it is done in that particular island. From the dancehall wine from Jamaica, to the punta rock from Belize, to the Soca Bacchanal from Trinidad, you name it -- the authenticity of the carnival dance culture of the Caribbean is truly upheld.

Island Groove™ is not your typical aerobics class. It's taught in a carnival

style—which means you follow the leader in front of you which is the instructor. There is no set routine in the class—because the emphasis is not on choreography, but fun and spirit. You don't have to worry about counts; instead you are invited to feel the beat and release what you feel as you follow the leader.

Island Groove™ is the only workout around in which the spirit of Caribbean

carnival truly comes alive! With the waving of flags, rags, holding of hands, dancing in communal harmony, everyone is united despite biological, physical and sociological differences; It makes you feel beautiful and sexy no matter what age or size you are; it allows you freedom of self and sexuality and it celebrates YOU!!

Island Groove™ is a must see and a must experience

So what are you waiting for? Come and SET YOUR SPIRIT FREE today! It will be an island experience you will remember for a very long, long time!

Island Groove™ Class Video

Other Island Groove™ Creations

Come and Set Your Spirit Free Today!

SocaBox

A high energy "carnival-style" kickboxing workout where soca music and Caribbean dance movements are combined with kickboxing moves to produce one of the most effective and fun kick boxing workout around.

Jam-It-In-De-Center

Focuses on the abs and the core through the use of specific sexy Caribbean style dance movements that attack all areas of the abs to help towards your achievement of a more toned center.

Island Groove™ Live Drum Therapy

Focuses on balancing your spiritual chakras thru a process of soul cleansing initiated through a direct, powerful one on one connection with the drum doing specific afro-caribbean style movements.

Who is Chinyere?

• Infectious Spirit and Motivational Force

• Master Performer and Renowned Caribbean Dance Specialist

• AFAA Certified - Fitness Guru

Chinyere Minott-Vasile, (well-known as just Chinyere)

the extremely talented, former beauty and carnival queen from the beautiful island of Jamaica, is the creator and master instructor of Island Groove™.

Chinyere has always had an ardent passion for the rich diversified dance

and musical culture of her Caribbean roots, specifically Caribbean carnival, which eventually lead her to research and study in depth all the various festive dances associated with the different popular and traditional rhythms— not just in the West Indies but also in South America. But it was her many experiences of Caribbean Carnival that fueled this passion into the creation of Island Groove™—an innovative and effective dance aerobics programme that brings the spirit of Caribbean carnival alive.

AFAA certified, Chinyere brought Island Groove™

to the fitness world in 1997 and since then has been teaching it at various major fitness clubs and dance studios in Los Angeles, California. She has been featured on several TV talk shows and has presented for major fitness conventions including the prestigious IDEA World Fitness Convention. and Nike Fitness Academy. Her Island Groove™ workout has become increasingly popular and is frequently referred to by many as the “taebo of dance” and one of the most fun dance workouts around.

With more than 10 year of professional fitness and dance experience,

Chinyere today soars as a well-respected and sought after Caribbean dance Specialist, fitness guru and presenter. She is hailed in the fitness world as one of the best instructors around with an insane energy, infectious spirit and motivational force that has been compared quite frequently to renowned fitness expert, Richard Simmons.

This Island Groove™ instructor known by everyone as the “carnival queen”

is an advocate for “setting the spirit free” ( the core of Caribbean Carnival) and believe and teaches through her Island Groove™ classes that a free spirit, leads to a happier soul , happier mind and thus a happier body and, and thus a healthier and happier YOU.

Chinyere is undoubtedly GREAT at what she does

and a part of that reason is due to a very special gift that she has: she knows how to find and pull out your “carnival jumbie” –your free spirit, no matter who you are.

Island Groove™ Class Information

Are you ready to set your Spirit Free?

Classes are taught in a Carnival Style

which is basically a "follow the leader" technique. Hence there is no set dance routine. The class is very free-spirited with emphasis on SPIRIT within the movement and not so much perfection of movement.

The Classes are filled with Incredible Explosive Energy

and the movements although fun and sexy can be very challenging - so feel free to pace yourself, take a break if you have to - come back in and join in the fun again. There is no stress in this class, remember it's no different from a carnival party - so do what you can do to the best of your ability as the instructor guides you in a festive mode.

No Dance Experience is Necessary

However you must love people, and you must leave all inhibitions at home in order to be really free.

The Basics

All classes are 60-90 min long and sometimes have live drumming.

Remember to bring a towel, lots of water and wear very light and comfortable workout shoes - -so that you can really move freely in class. This is very important because there is so much movement in the classes, so you want to feel really light on your feet.

It is important to wear the proper shoes. The lighter your sneakers are - the better. Make sure there is shock absorption, flexibility, stability and that it fits perfectly.

All class props are provided by the instructor - such as flags, rags, leis, masks, whistles etc.

Some of the dance styles include:

• • Soca (Bachannal Style) • The Limbo
• • Soca (Road March Style) • Bottle Dance
• • Meringue (Party Style) • Soca Train
• • Reggae (Dancehall Style) • Conga Line
• • Samba, Punta, Johnkunnu • Rope Dance

And Much More!

Please Note, the More You Come Back

the more free you become with your body, the more stamina you will have, and the more wonderful physical and soulistic benefits you will see - just creeping up on you!

Island Groove™ Class Prices

Flexible and Money-Saving Class Packages Available

Choose What Works Best for You

Class Prices

Make Your Purchase Now....

To Register or Buy Classes, Click Here

Island Groove™ Class Locations

Evolution Dance Studio

• 4200 Lankershim Blvd
• (cross street is Whipple)
• Universal City

MNR's Dance Factory

• 11606 San Vicente Blvd
• (cross street is Barrington)
• Brentwood

Dance Studio #1

• 2037 Granville Ave.
• (cross street is Mississippi)
• West LA

Register for Island Groove™ Classes

We have several flexible and money-saving class packages available! See which one will fit your schedule and work best for you. Island Groove™ classes may also be purchased in class!

Island Groove™ Class Packages:

Single Class $15.00 5PAC $70.00 8PAC $100.00 10PAC $120.00 15 PAC $160.00 25PAC $250.00

Island Groove™ Gift Cards:

Island Groove™ FAQs

• How many calories can I burn doing Island Groove™?
• Calorie burn varies depending on your age, height, weight, and physical fitness level. You can expect to burn approximately 600 to 1500 calories in a 60 minute Island Groove™ Class.
• I am not a good dancer. Does it matter?
• Absolutely not! No dance experience is needed to do Island Groove™. Just need to love people, love to sweat and have an open-mind.
• What if I am unable to keep up?
• That's OK - go at your own pace, take a break if you have to, and come back in and join the carnival. It's no different from taking part in a street festival or carnival, you do what you can do, and have fun!
• What kind of shoes should I wear?
• Footwear should fit well, be stable but light with effective shock absorption and flexibility.
• I got a class series package. Can I allow my friend to use one of my classes?
• No, series are non-transferrable.
• When I purchase a package, how long do I have to use it?
• It depends on the package you purchased.
  • 5 & 8 Pac *good until 2 months
  • 10 & 15 Pac *good until 3 months
  • 25 Pac *good until 6 months
• I have an Island Groove™ Gift Card that I am unable to use because I moved out of state can I give it to someone?
• Yes, GCs once unused are transferrable.
• Can I use my Island Groove™ package or GC to towards an Island Groove™ Special class event?
• No –Island Groove™ class packages or GCs can ONLY be used towards regular Island Groove™ classes.
• Do you offer special discounts to students or seniors?
• Yes. All students (under 25 w/ ID) and seniors (65 and over) will pay $10 for a single class and receive 30% discount on any class package purchased.
• Can I bring my child to the class?
• Yes, once there is parental consent especially for children under 13 years old.
• Can I get a discount if I refer people?
• Absolutely. For every referral that returns and purchase a single class, you earn a credit of $5 which you can use immediately when paying for your own class. If that referral comes back and purchased a package, then you will earn 2 to 3 free class credits depending on the package that was purchased.

Island Groove™ Class Policies

• Island Groove™ Master Classes and Special Event Classes are held as separate events. These are not to be confused with regular classes held weekly.

• All series - once purchased are only good for a certain time. This varies depending on the package.

• 5 & 8 Pac *good until 2 months
• 10 & 15 Pac *good until 3 months
• 25 Pac *good until 6 months

• Students with class series packages Cannot transfer them to another person.

• Students who bring new people to class - if 3 or more actually return - can earn free classes or discounts on their class packages. So please spread the island fever!

Book Island Groove™

Bring the "Islands" to Your Special Event

If you cannot make it to the "islands"... don't worry

Carnival Queen, Chinyere will bring the islands to You with Island Groove™ - the Wildest and Most Fun dance workout around and the only workout in which the spirit of Caribbean Carnival truly comes Alive.

Transform your event into an Island Carnival Experience you will never forget

Whether it be for your birthday party, a holiday party, a corporate event, health retreat, office workout special, Chinyere can and will transform your event into an Island Carnival Experience you will never forget.

Packages are flexible and vary. Can include:

• - 60 min to 90 minutes of Island Groove™
• - Carnival props such as flags, whistles, limbo sticks, masks, leis
• - Islandy, exotic refreshments like coconut water served island style, exotic fruits salads, chicken and veggie patties and much more depending on your palette
• - Live drums
• - Live DJ
• - Costumed Dancers

For Price info and booking details - click here.

Hire Island Groove™ - Today for your next event and groove in True Island Carnival Style!!

Island Groove™ Newsletter

Read the current Island Groove™ Newsletter...Click Here

What's on Your Mind?

If you have any topics related to the Caribbean Culture or Health, you'd like to share or any comments about stuff we've written, please send us an e-mail...Click Here

We Want to Feature You!

Every month we like to highlight the business or services of students within the island groove Community. Also artists, dancers, musicians and companies from all around the world that are involved in spreading the beauty of Caribbean Culture. Please send us a brief description of who you are, where you are from and the nature of your business and we may just feature you in the next newsletter.

Subscribe

If you'd like to receive the Island Groove Newsletter, fill out the form...Click Here

Island Groove™ Newsletter Archives...Click Here

Book Island Groove™

For appearances, interviews and other public relation issues please call:
1-866-We-Groove
(1-866-934-7668)

For class info, comments or questions call: 1-866-934-7008

Fax Number: 1-818-223-8976

Testimonials

Ashley Elie

Trinidad, West Indies (WI)

Chinyere,Chinyere,Chinyere when you get used to the name that goes along with "Island Groove™" you will then understand why it is so important. With all dance classes the teacher is the one that turns on the switch. When "Island Groove's " switch is turn on it's smokes, you are on fire. For a great cardio workout it's one of the best, you can find your groove in "Island Groove™." Everyone in the class is intoxicated by the energy, the music and most of all the freedom to express oneself, you will be too. I love it.

 

Brandy

Los Angeles, CA (US)

I have been living in the LA area for only 9 months and I love to dance. I've been dancing for over 10 years. Finding a class like Chnyere's has been a true blessing. Through her class I have been able to enhance my dancing performance and become a better dancer. I really enjoy her class and recommend it to everyone I know. It is filled with spirit and love, components needed in all dance classes. I want to say thank you and you will see me in you classes always.

 

Claudia Williams

Hollywood, California (US)

I have studied many styles of dance from classical to folk. But what really stands out about Island Groove™ is the emphasis on group participation. Chinyere really knows how to get everyone to put their 100% into the class. People begin to open up and move in ways they never dream of and it is a beautiful thing to be a part of. We love the class and we love her. She takes us to the heart of the Carnaval spirit every time, and there is really nothing like it. This is by far the best work out in the Los Angeles area. If you want a flavor of the islands and that Carnaval spirit, Island Groove™ is it!

 

Eva Baboun

Syracuse, NY (US)

Island Groove™ has improved my life. Nothing compares to Chinyere's, carefree, high energy, sexy workout. I always leave her class feeling 100% better than I did going in! In the three years I have been taking her class, my self esteem has blossomed, my body can do things I never thought possible, an I have met some really wonderful people. No matter what goes on in my life, I am grateful that I can go to Island Groove™, a place where I can let go, be myself, and set my spirit free. Thank You Chinyere.

 

Jannette Ramirez

California (US)

The first time I went to Island Groove™, I truly felt like this is the only class that is worth my time. With a blend of great island music, harmonious vibe, high energy, freedom, and loving people; Island Groove™ is the perfect workout. This is different from any other workout because you get to dance and move your body to the rhythm of the soul. Since there are no rules and you can move as freely as you like you please your body and listen to your inner self. Don't even worry if you think you can't dance, because before you know it you will be moving your body in ways that you never thought possible. It's all about how you want to move, not how someone tells you to move. Chinyere is a wonderful leader she brings a great atmosphere because she is always in a good mood and ready to party and make you sweat til you can't sweat no more. Island Groove™ is a great class where you can dance to the best music, meet many different and wonderful people, and you can just party like there is no tomorrow. One thing I do advise you bring to class: A Free Spirit

 

Ambition Sandamela

South Africa

My name is Ambition and  I am from South Africa . I'm in love with Island Groove™ because I get to wine to soca! This's one class where you get a full body workout and still have a smile on your face. You get to dance to different types of music: from soca to samba to mirengue, Afro-Cuban to dancehall! I love it ! You have to be in it to experience it!!!

 

Silvia Hernandez

Los Angeles, California (US)

I was originally introduced to Island Groove™ in Jan of 2003. When I first arrived to class I was a little shy like most people and I was sure people where going to laugh at my stiff moves but as soon as the music came on it seemed to lighten up the hearts and spirits of the class.

Island Groove™ seemed to have a Spirit of its own. The class was so full of life and energy, the vibe from Island Groove™ was like no other Class I had ever been to before.
I couldnt believe how with every dance movement my body felt alive and sexy. The music and live drums made it even more intense because it felt like we were really in the islands - WOW!!! I was like having so much fun I didn't even have time to remember being afraid of anything, everybody seem to be having a blast, no one was holding back.
I also have lost 4 inches from my waist and I've lost 15 pounds that I didn't even realize till my friends started to ask how I was doing it to lose so much weight so fast - ISLAND GROOVE™ !!!! I've also met the most incredible people from all walks of life and I have made some real true friends.
I know in that first Class I fell in love with Island Groove™ !!!
I will never Stop Island Groovin--its what I've always been waiting for !!!

 

Ramin Omid

Iran

In the past 15 years I have tried pretty much all the workout fads that have come (and mostly gone)....from high impact aerobics to step Reebok to hip hop to kickboxing and now Island Groove™. I can tell without a doubt that Island Groove™ is the one that has pushed me the hardest but that I have enjoyed the most while doing it. First of all compared to all the other workouts, Island Groove™ has a really cool name. Secondly it is the most fun workout that I have ever had. It is not even really a work out. It is a big party during which I get to pretty much dance and work out to all the exotic music that I've always loved...from Samba to Salsa...from Meringue to Punta to Cumbia to you name it. And there is also live drumming which makes you think you are in the middle of the carnival. lastly but not leastly...it is taught by sexy goddess Chinyere who gets out of control just as soon as she hears the first note of the music and her energy is contagious. there is so much energy in the class that it can help reduce California's energy shortage all by itself !!

Island Groove™ rocks and I guarantee everyone that if they try it just once, they will get hooked on it. I would definitely, very strongly recommend anybody who likes working out and is bored with all the usual classes and is looking for a new challenge, or anybody who just loves music, to try Island Groove™ once. You will not be disappointed.

 

Claudia Valenzuela

Santa Ana, California (US)

SEE!!! IT REALLY IS A FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH!!!
Island Groove™ is more than a dance class that allows us to feel and express our true selves; it is a state of mind. I love the class for its uniqueness; it’s not bound to a structure of competition or individualism. Instead Chinyere pushes us to move our bodies as we can and to move with each other and form a community. I truly love this sense of bonding that the class creates; it’s a real feeling of connection with others. I have met beautiful people, with beautiful spirits. While I am ‘Island Groovin’ I don’t have to worry that I am being judged by others, it’s a space free of judgment and full of life, we’re like children. We are all there together like a ‘spiritual dancing family.’ Chinyere I love your class….I’m ready for Island Groove™ baby!!!

 

Sona Kokonyan

Armenia, Yerevan

It has been the only class that has gotten me to work my entire body. It is fun, exciting and pays off real well. You see your body transforming and shaping into a form that would take months to achieve by just simply weight lifting. I enjoy the little dances we do and the games we play like the bottles. It is a very creative way of getting people excited about working out. I guarantee that anyone who tries out ISLAND GROOVE™ will be hooked and will wish the class was taught more often. Every dance class has been new and innovative. Thank you for all  you have done for me ISLAND GROOVE™!!!

 

Groovy Links

Brazilian Samba

Learn the art of samba from scratch --step by step with one of the best Brazilian Samba Maestra around. For Info: www.raizbrazil.com

Keep Your Spirit Alive with our Fun Island Groove™ Merchandise!

For fun groovy gear to keep you uplifted with the festive spirit of island groove - check out the cool and wide range of products at the Island Groove Shop. For Info: www.cafepress.com/seeilndgrv

Jammin' and Uniquely Beautiful Gift Ideas

For some of the most jammin' and uniquely beautiful gift ideas. For Info: www.gifts4allevents.com

Try Derrick's Jamaican Cuisine

Hungry for some island cuisine? Try Derrick's Jamaican Cuisine. It's yummy yet healthy and the decor just makes you feel like you are in the islands. For Info: www.derricksjamaican.com

Ashley Elie's Caribbean Spectacular Dance Revue

Bring the spirit and life of the ISLANDS & CARNIVAL to your next special event. Make your event spectacular with Ashley Elie's Caribbean Spectacular Dance Revue! For Info: www.caribbeanspectacular.com

Groove & GOJI Your Way to a Healthier Body With:

an excellent nutritional supplement with 34 proven benefits, backed by the nation's leading nutritionist, Dr. Earl Mindell. For info: www.setyourspiritfree.freelife.com

Estilo Fashion Lax

For the most exotic and sexy jeans that screams HOT, HOT, HOT - ladies you definitely want to go here. For Info: www.estilofashionlax.com

Casablanca Salon

For stunning brows, glowing facials, exotic body treatments and well-done wax services - all for reasonable prices--see none other than CATHY AEBISCHER in SHERMAN OAKS - one of the grooviest Aesthetician around. Can be a bit of a wait to see her - but it is so well worth it! You'll see! www.casablancasalon.com

RIO-HOT

For the most comfortable yet sassiest custom-made ball room and dance wear shoes in the world-no-kiddin'-go RIO-HOT! For Info: www.riohot.com

Katia Vaz-59x Latin Dance Champion

Want to  really learn to dance the sensual rumba, tango, samba and  more-then you need to groove with Katia Vaz-59x Latin Dance Champion.
 www.katiavaz.com

Estrada DJ Services

Are you looking for a professional DJ at an affordable price? Someone who has what it takes to get the crowd off its feet and on the dance floor? E.D.S is for you! For Info: www.estradadjservices.com

Contact Island Groove™

For appearances, interviews and other public relation issues please call:
1-866-We-Groove
(1-866-934-7668)

For class info, comments or questions call: 1-866-934-7008

Fax Number: 1-818-223-8976