Latonya Style taps into soca season with fused fitness series

Dance instructor and cultural ambassador Latonya Style is jumping on the carnival train while staying true to her roots by hosting a soca and dancehall fitness fete series. Speaking with Lifestyle, she shared that, “With carnival season here, soca naturally brings that festive, high-energy vibe that Jamaicans love.” In the same breath, it was important for her to incorporate dancehall, as it remains a key component of her brand.

Both genres, she says, stem from the Caribbean and they share a vibrant and almost ceremonial spirit, “Dancehall and soca are all about rhythm, freedom of expression, and community. They are both energetic, festive, and very connected to social gatherings and parties, and seasonal fêtes or concerts.”

Honouring their similarities, Style also highlighted the historical difference between the two.

“Dancehall comes from Jamaica and it’s deeply rooted in street and sound system culture, with specific dance moves, techniques, and a strong influence from the dance community. While soca comes mainly from Trinidad and Tobago and is closely connected to carnival celebrations, with movements that are more focused on continuous high-energy jumping, waving, and whining to keep the party atmosphere going,” she explained.

And as both genres inspire movement, musical enjoyment, and confident self-expression through dance, she said the series aims to celebrate that connection.

Teaching since her high school days, Style has developed a unique technique that blends repetitive movement with an engaging, high-energy environment.

“I aspire to create an environment where people of all ages and levels can feel comfortable in my classes. Fitness sessions are usually high-energy with non-stop fun. I like to start at a slower pace so participants can understand the movements and follow the routines easily. Then, we gradually build the speed and intensity to increase the workout value,” she shared.

Style further explained that, “Repetition and simplicity are also very important in my method. It helps students feel confident, learn the movements quickly and properly, and enjoy the experience while still getting a great workout.”

And for those doubting or questioning the benefits of dance fitness, the experienced dancer outlined a host of advantages. Active for both the body and the mind, she revealed it is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, build stamina and coordination, all while burning calories in a fun and exciting way.

Beyond exercise, dance fitness, Style says, can also be very therapeutic: “Moving to music helps to relieve stress, release tension, and boost your mood. It allows people to express themselves freely, which often leads to feelings of happiness, confidence, and emotional release.”

MORE THAN A WORKOUT

For many who have fallen in love with dance fitness, it’s more than just a workout, “It’s a safe space where they can escape daily pressures, connect with others, and leave feeling energised, uplifted, and mentally refreshed.”

Although the veteran performer primarily focuses on dancehall, she has a deep appreciation for Caribbean culture and the musical diversity it brings to the world.

“March is an exciting time because the carnival season brings a lot of soca energy. So, it’s a great opportunity for people to enjoy that festive vibe through movement and fitness. Incorporating soca for this period allows the class to connect with the carnival spirit while also celebrating the richness of Caribbean rhythms overall. So we’re embracing one culture and balancing it with our very own,” Style explained.

For this month’s sessions, Style has invited some very talented and energetic guest instructors from the dance community. Participants can look forward to classes from Dansa Bling, Smilez, Omii CleanStep, Baby Ice, Mara ‘Jackhammer’, and Goose Too Kool, along with a few more surprise guests.

“Each of these dancers brings their own unique style, personality, and flavour to the class, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting. It also gives participants the chance to learn from a variety of talented dancehall practitioners while enjoying the fun and high-energy atmosphere of the fitness sessions,” Style added.

The soca and dancehall Dance Fitness Fete takes place every Tuesday this month at Hard End Fitness Factory on Ardenne Road in St. Andrew, starting at 7:30 p.m.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com