SPECIAL TO THE REPORTER

Leslie Vernon, a newly certified Jazzercise instructor, will begin offering classes at Dance South, located at 316 Foothills Dr. in Chelsea.

Classes will begin on Jan. 3, 2007 at 8:15 a.m. and will continue three days a week, Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 8:15 a.m. Vernon earned the right to teach Jazzercise by completing an intense three day workshop and performing a letter-perfect audition.

Becoming a Jazzercise instructor requires dedication and thorough training. After submitting adequate references and putting in long hours of practice, Vernon

recently participated in a rigorous workshop in Kenner, La., sponsored by the Franchise Programs and Services Department of Jazzercise, Inc.

She was required to learn approximately 15 Jazzercise routines for her audition; pass a written exam on basic anatomy, exercise physiology and nutrition; learn Jazzercise business practices; and become certified to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Jazzercise combines effective exercise with jazz dance-based choreography and popular music. Each 60-minute high-energy class includes a warm up, aerobic segment, muscle toning and flexibility exercises and a cool-down.

Fresh choreography is continually introduced into the program as Jazzercise founder Judi Sheppard Missett creates new routines every ten weeks.

The non-competitive atmosphere makes it easy for people of all fitness levels to participate. Instructors demonstrate both challenging movements and low-impact variations. Most importantly, Jazzercise classes are designed to be fun.

Now celebrating its 37th year, Jazzercise, created by Judi Sheppard Missett, is the world&8217;s leading dance-fitness program.

With more than 6,300 instructors teaching 20,000 classes weekly worldwide, the comprehensive program, designed to enhance cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility has helped millions of people of all ages and fitness levels reap the benefits of exercise and improve well-being.

For more information on Jazzercise contact, Vernon at 618-8270