Yeshvi Mehta has a passion for dance that can be seen, felt and heard in her one-hour BollyLatin Fitness class. The high-energy, dance-aerobics class – which is similar to Zumba – combines the 22-year-old Burnaby resident’s love for Latin and Bollywood music with easy-to-follow choreography. A Vancouver resident for the past 18 years, Yeshvi was born and partly raised in Mumbai, India. We sat down with Yeshvi to learn more about her background and fitness inspiration.
What fitness instruction/ dance have you done recently?
I have had the opportunity to teach a Zumba class at the University of British Columbia’s Thrive Week. Over the summer, I choreographed for Simon Fraser University’s Bollywood Dance team and Befikre Dance Team. As well, I have performed with Flare Dance Co.
What’s BollyLatin Fitness all about?
The energy and no-experience-necessary side of it is similar to a Zumba class. However, participants can expect to groove to different sounds and learn some Bollywood dance moves.
What do you love about teaching fitness?
I love that that teaching fitness doesn’t require a smile, but that it naturally occurs. I have yet to teach a class without a huge grin on my face!
What is unique about your style as a fitness instructor?
A unique and beloved component of my fitness class is that it can either meet you where you are in your fitness journey or push you further. Each move can be modified to suit each individual.
How did you get into fitness and healthy living?
Fitness has been a huge component of my life since I was a child. In the summertime, my family and I would hike up the Grouse Grind. We continue to hike around the Lower Mainland – The Chief is our goal for 2020. However, as I get older, I have discovered my passion specifically for Indian dance because of the connection it gives me to my roots.
What are some tips for leading an active lifestyle?
A key aspect that works for me is to make it an enjoyable and natural habit. I personally don’t enjoy running on a treadmill for hours on end. Dance, on the other hand, is something that makes me forget that I’m working out!
What keeps you busy in your spare time?
My spare time is entirely filled with dance! I love that it’s constantly evolving, and I enjoy learning new styles.
Learn more about BollyLatin Fitness and other aerobics and fitness classes at West Point Grey here.