Elevate Wi invites the community to participate in their WiFit initiative that offers a weekly donation-based calisthenics and karate class Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at ElevateWi Studios.
The class structure follows a simple framework beginning with a warm-up inclusive of basic movements, followed by stretching and mobility work, and then ending with a practice of karate fundamentals.
The instructor, Tyrone Reid, was inspired by accessible community fitness, like senior classes in parks. Reid emphasizes that he makes adjustments for beginners or those working around injuries. “I keep classes accessible for all levels by offering multiple difficulty tiers for every exercise. I’ll often have different groups doing different drills with workouts tailored to who is in the room,” Reid explained.
Beyond physical fitness, Reid notes the mental benefits of consistent workout routines. “In my classes, participants have a chance to turn off the outside world and focus. This break from the rigors of the world and everyday life supports mental clarity, mood, and leading a more balanced life,” Reid said.
The decision to make the class donation-based is central to its mission. “I don’t ever want someone that could benefit, to suffer because they don’t have the money,” Reid explained, who credits scholarships and free classes with starting his own fitness journey and feels it is his duty to pay it forward.
Reid’s teaching is shaped by his own experience as a student who wasn’t “naturally talented.” Having been both the “low achiever” and “star pupil,” he believes everyone can improve with effort and the right guidance. “I have witnessed regular participants get stronger, faster, and more coordinated. Everyone always leaves energized and in a great mood,” expressed Reid.
While Reid maintains that Elevate Wi is the permanent home to his classes, he remains open to offering his classes at pop-up events in other locations as demand grows.
“The bags will be getting hit whether it’s just me or a full house,” Reid said.
Interested participants are encouraged to register for classes at wistudios.as.me/wifit.
