Foundation Pilates offers classes in traditional pilates and all instructors are trained and certified in the discipline. The studio also offers a pilates training program, for those who are interested in becoming an instructor.
In operation since 1970, Suzanne's Dance School is Petaluma's longest-established and largest full-curriculum dance school. Director Celeste Sutter focuses on building students' self-esteem, and a love of dance, in addition to teaching dance techniques and stage presence. The school offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, lyrical, and hip hop for both girls and boys of all ages. Tuition ranges from $50 per month to $225 per month, depending on number of hours per week.
The Petaluma School of Ballet has been teaching girls (and a few boys as well) the art of ballet since 1959. The school offers lessons in ballet, tap, lyrical, pointe, "Kidz Jazz," hip-hop, and Zumba (Latin dance fitness classes). They are also the home of Petaluma Aikido, Sue White Tap and Capoeira with Fabio Mendes. The school's philosophy is threefold: they believe that each child can be a beautiful dancer no matter what their body type; that dancers should perform since it builds confidence; and that children like hard work, and enjoy the challenges.
The grande dame of dance schools, North Bay Performing Arts Center, Contessi Ballet was the first ballet school that opened in Petaluma. Marcela Smith, a native of Florence, Italy, where she learned ballet, believes in the old-fashioned tenets of talent and hard work when it comes to learning dance. Regular classes meet during the week with rehearsals reserved for the weekends. The school's alumni have gone on to study at prestigious schools in San Francisco, Canada, and Washington DC. Hours vary, so call for a list of classes and times.
The Dance Center provides classes for children (ages 6 - 17) and adults, from beginners to advanced, in tap, ballroom and flamenco, as well as yoga. It also offers private lessons by appointment. The instructors are "world class" and the director, Carol Savoy, has more than 25 years of professional dance experience. The Footloose Dance Center also hosts student performances periodically.
Redwood Empire Gymnastics is a locally owned and operated school for tumbling and gymnastics, creative dance and trampoline. Its students range in age from preschool to adults. Summer day camps and birthday parties for kids are available, too. Visit Redwood Empire's website for a schedule of classes.
Sponsored by the City of Petaluma and led by Certified Fitness Instructor, Andrea H. Anderson, Total Body Fitness is an exercise program meeting at the Petaluma Community Center. Anderson offers total conditioning, Zumba and mat/stability ball Pilates programs on a monthly or drop-in basis. Call ahead for registration and scheduling inquiries.