Business Details
African Dance Fitness Classes in Virginia Beach
Founded by Rita Addico Cohen, Fit With Rita brings authentic African dance fitness to Virginia Beach and the Mid-Atlantic region. With a background in classical music, dance, and martial arts, Rita combines cultural heritage with modern fitness techniques to create transformative experiences. Her proprietary African HEAT method uses traditional African dance moves set to authentic playlists, offering both physical and mental health benefits. Rita's expertise extends beyond fitness instructionshe holds advanced degrees in music, is a certified AFAA group fitness instructor, and a NASM nutrition counselor.Through TACA, the nonprofit she founded, Rita shares African culture through educational programs and community events. Her classes cater to diverse audiences, from corporate wellness programs to public dance sessions at Virginia Wesleyan University. Rita's multilingual abilities and global perspective enhance her ability to connect with participants of all backgrounds. Recognized with the 2022 Zumba Fitness Humanitarian Award, she remains committed to community enrichment through cultural and physical wellness initiatives.
Services
African Dance Fitness
Nutritional Counseling
Corporate Wellness Programs
Cultural Workshops
Private Sessions
Highlights and features
- Certified AFAA Group Fitness Instructor with 15+ years performing experience
- Proprietary African HEAT method combines cultural authenticity with fitness science
- Founder of TACA nonprofit promoting African cultural education
- NASM-certified Fitness Nutrition counselor for holistic wellness
- Multilingual instructor with expertise in 10 languages including Spanish
Associations and certifications
- AFAA
- NASM
Services
African Dance Fitness
Experience authentic African dance workouts combining traditional movements with modern fitness techniques. Our classes use curated African music playlists to improve cardiovascular health, coordination, and cultural appreciation. Participants of all skill levels gain physical benefits while learning about African heritage through movement.
Nutritional Counseling
Receive personalized nutrition advice from NASM-certified counselor Rita Addico Cohen. Our sessions integrate fitness goals with dietary planning to optimize health outcomes. Clients learn culturally informed eating strategies that complement their physical activity and wellness objectives.
Corporate Wellness Programs
Enhance workplace wellness through customized African dance fitness sessions. These team-building activities improve employee health while promoting cultural awareness. Programs adapt to corporate schedules and venues, offering stress relief and physical engagement for professionals at all fitness levels.
Cultural Workshops
Explore African culture through interactive dance and music workshops. Participants engage with traditional practices while gaining physical exercise. These educational sessions combine fitness benefits with cultural education, featuring Rita's signature I
Private Sessions
Access customized fitness instruction tailored to individual goals. Sessions combine dance, martial arts, and nutritional guidance from Rita's multidisciplinary expertise. Clients receive personalized attention for skill development, fitness improvement, or cultural learning in one-on-one or small group settings.
People
Rita Addico Cohen
Founder & Lead Instructor
Ghanaian-born fitness expert with 15+ years professional performance experience. Holds music degrees from University of Virginia and Manhattan School of Music. Certified AFAA instructor and NASM nutrition counselor. Founder of TACA nonprofit promoting African culture through education and arts programs.
Questions
What type of dance fitness classes do you offer?
We specialize in African Dance Fitness using traditional West African movements set to authentic music. Our signature African HEAT method combines cultural authenticity with modern fitness science for a full-body workout.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! All fitness levels welcome. Rita's teaching approach adapts to participants' abilities while maintaining cultural authenticity. No prior dance experience needed—just bring enthusiasm for learning new movements and cultures.
Where are classes held in Virginia Beach?
Public classes meet on Virginia Wesleyan University's campus. Corporate programs come to your workplace. Special events and private sessions arrange locations based on client needs across the Hampton Roads region.
What qualifications does the instructor have?
Rita Addico Cohen holds music degrees from UVA and Manhattan School of Music, AFAA group fitness certification, NASM nutrition certification, and 1st degree Tae Kwon Do black belt. She speaks 10 languages including Spanish.
Can you accommodate corporate wellness programs?
Yes, we design customized workplace wellness solutions. These include team-building dance fitness sessions that improve employee health while promoting cultural awareness and stress relief through physical activity.
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Reviews (3)
Yoli Sabalerio
Apr 07, 2021
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Rita's classes are so much fun that you forget you're working out. Definitely recommend taking her classes. ❤️😊
Teryck Scott
Jan 07, 2019
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Rita is an AWESOME instructor with incredible energy. She is truly passionate about fitness and overall wellness. It is always a pleasure to be in a class with her!
Leona B.
Aug 11, 2010
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First off, I must explain this isn't a place. It's a person. Her name is Rita and she teaches Zumba classes at various locations. But the one I tried out was taught barefoot on the beach--the Bay actually. It's called Ocean Park. You get there by turning left at the 7-11 not far from Lesner Bridge. Anyway -- it's sooo much fun and a killer workout. She does the beach classes on Mondays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. It was only my second time trying Zumba, which is like Latin/hip-hop/world dance moves set to music. Basically shake your booty and burn fat--even more
