Leslie Norton and Cindy Montagna, founders of Dance 4 Fitness, are continuing to help community members stay active and fit despite the ongoing restrictions and safety measures during the pandemic.

Norton and Montagna, certified personal trainers and licensed Zumba instructors, continue to offer dance fitness classes and personal training groups. "It is so important that we all continue to take care of our physical, emotional and mental well-being by moving and getting that heart pumping on a regular basis," said Norton. "Our goal is to keep our fitness community's supportive environment."

Dance classes are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. at the Lionville School of Dance, 11 S. Village Ave., Exton, indoors. Classes are also livestreamed online and recorded for online viewing.

Educational classes are also offered via Zoom. Topics have included healthy recipes, such as salad in a jar, and protein bite preparation.

"One of the benefits of the new format and hybrid classes has been that we have been able to reach people who do not live in the area," noted Montagna. "We have had moms and daughters, spouses of clients and friends of existing clients share their love for fitness and this fitness community with others who never were able to be a part of the group before. It is so rewarding to be able to share our love for helping others beyond our geographical area."

Hybrid classes have offered opportunities to stay active and exercise from the comfort of one's own home for those who are uncomfortable with the idea of going back to a gym.

Outdoor dance fitness classes, which began in the summer of 2002, will return to the outdoor lot as soon as the weather permits. The lot is located at 74 Woodland Drive, Downingtown. A fee is charged per class.

In addition to the company's fitness programs, Dance 4 Fitness contributes to charitable endeavors. Norton and Montagna have participated in fundraisers for Path of Hope and Chester County Women's Services, and the company has donated monthly to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

For more details, seach for "Dance 4 Fitness LLC" on Facebook or email dance4fitnesslsod@gmail.com.