Today we’d like to introduce you to Lucretia Jeans.
Hi Lucretia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2023, after COVID 19 and completing graduate school, I found myself burnout. I was seeking a hobby that brought me joy. I remembered how dance brought me joy in my formative years. It was always a great outlet for me. My gym at the time, started to offer barre fitness. I was so excited because I tried barre in the past and enjoyed it. However, I noticed a gap in representation of diversity when it came to the instructors, body types, music, and cultural awareness. Fortunately, the barre instructor at my gym was the cultural representation, I never experienced at other franchises. It made a world of difference in my barre fitness experience. The barre instructor encouraged me to get a barre fitness certification and mentored me.
Later that year, I founded ARTISTRY FITNESS, a mobile fitness and wellness company the facilitate barre fitness classes and fitness events throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Diversity and inclusion in the fitness and wellness space was and still is a challenge. However, great strides have been made since I started back in 2023. More women of color are trying barre fitness, and some studios have diversified their marketing and hiring practices, but there are still gaps in inclusiveness. My barre classes and events are popular because they are both, diverse and inclusive.
Aside from the industry challenges, I encounter challenges many small businesses encounter. Leading a mobile fitness and wellness company has not been easy, but definitely worth it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When I’m not leading a barre fitness class, I’m a Registered Nurse that specializes in the professional development of nurses.
By being a nurse, I understand the importance of being physically active and overall wellness. Barre fitness is a great low impact workout with so many benefits.
If you were to ask someone about my barre class, she would say my class is:
– beginner friendly, yet challenging
-great musical playlist with lots of range (hip hop, R&B, house, pop, throwback jams)
-I have a very encouraging demeanor.
I’m most proud of stepping out on faith and starting ARTISTRY FITNESS. I’m also proud of inspiring black and brown women to try barre fitness. Some women have also pursued barre certifications because they were inspired by me.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Although, I danced throughout my childhood, I took my first ballet class in college as an elective.
Pricing:
- Classes: $20-25 per class
- Event Prices: varies
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theartistryfitness.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartistry_fitness
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/raisingthebarrewithcre
