7 Dope Fitness Businesses Run By Black Women

For some fitness junkies the gym is life, while others may turn their home into a gridiron paradise. This can leave many small fitness businesses ignored, especially in big cities. But in the last decade, a slew of the exercise-based studios that have opened up are owned and operated by Black women, because #BlackGirlsWorkoutToo. Scroll through to see where you can get a dose of Black girl magic while getting snatched at the same time.

Black Girls Run!

Photo Credit: Facebook “Black Girls Run!” was started in 2009 by Toni Carey and Ashley Hicks-Rocha with the goal of addressing the obesity epidemic in the African American community. On their website, you can find upcoming marathons in a city near you and running groups to trek through the park with before or after work. There is also apparel for sale and tips and resources for runners. BGR is stationed from state to state in places like California, Colorado, Texas , Florida, Louisiana and New York. Check their site to meet fellow melanin queens who slay on the track.

Banana Skirt Fitness

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A post shared by Banana Skirt Productions™ (@banana_skirt) on Jan 31, 2017 at 11:52am PST

Zumba isn't the only type of dance fitness around, thanks to Banana Skirt Fitness founder Akinah Rahmaan. Banana Skirt Fitness was established in 2014 to teach choreography from your favorite music videos while also serving you with a full body workout. If your favorite track doesn’t have a visual, their skilled choreographers create routines to different tracks as well. If learning dance routines isn’t quite your thing, they also have “Ratchet Fitness,” which is a watch-and-follow class that is fit for any beginner.

Harlem Cycle

The Journey Starts NOW! ...Let Harlem's first boutique cycling studio help guide you to your 2017 fitness goals.

A post shared by Harlem Cycle (@harlemcycle) on Jan 1, 2017 at 2:09pm PST

If you're in New York and don't feel like traveling down to Midtown or Chelsea for a cycling class, then Harlem Cycle can be your go-to. Housed in Harlem Heights, founder Tammeca Rochester established the only indoor cycling studio above 92nd street in 2015. There are three to five 45-minute to one-hour classes offered on a daily basis, with the “Soulful Sundays” gospel class being a community favorite. There is usually a discounted price offered for first timers as well. Check out all they have to offer here. https://www.instagram.com/p/BRPO-iiDOd8/?taken-at=6910840

LeFemme Suite

  Photo Credit: Instagram If you are looking to spice up your workout, trade in the pilates ball for a pole. Opened in 2009, founder Carmen Victorino established LeFemme Suite in Harlem to tap into a “woman’s sensuality and inner temple.” Single classes as well as six-class packages are available for beginners and intermediate level gals who know how to work the pole. Besides the pole classes, Twerk classes, spa sessions and private couples’ classes are also offered. Prices start at $25. Book your sexy sweat session here.

Gymnetics Fitness

Photo Credit: Instagram Going to the gym without a workout buddy can get lonely which is where group fitness comes in. Fitness expert Ellen Ector’s Gymnetics Fitness is known throughout Atlanta, GA as the premier place for group classes that will help you shed major pounds. If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion but not in the mood for the club, you can bring your squad to this gym for a “Body Party,” a hour-long private event with a live DJ, food and games. You can also link up with one of their certified personal trainers.

RAD Experience

Robbie Ann Darby Photo Credit: radexperience.com Have you ever admired a personal trainer from another city through Instagram and wished you could meet up with them for a session? Well, Robbie Ann Darby has made that a reality with RAD Experience. As long as you have wi-fi, you can work it out one-on-one with Darby from the comfort of your home. The California fitness guru is currently stationed in New York City where she hosts small group and private training workouts. Darby can also help you tailor your diet through nutritional counseling and revamp your workouts by redesigning your workout regimen.

Brukwine

Photo Credit : brukwine.com Who knew wining like a dancehall queen could be a workout? Professional dancers Tamara Marrow and Autavia Bailey merged toning, cardio and Caribbean-based choreography for their Brukwine classes based in NYC. For only $20, you can wine your waist to your favorite reggae tunes and burn up to 1,000 calories. Classes are scheduled Monday through Saturday in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Long Island. Class packages are also up for grabs.

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