The truth is, along with my weight training, I know that I am supposed to do Cardio as well. The problem is that I've NEVER liked any of the traditional types of Cardio you find on the gym floor. It wasn't until my Sister suggested to me that I should try Zumba as a form of Fitness/Cardio, thinking I would actually enjoy making "dance" the solution for getting my Cardio in. She was RIGHT! That 1 hour of nonstop dancing is the most effective cardio exercise I've ever done. My first experience with Zumba was at the gym in which I was doing my weight training. The atmosphere was fine but, definitely a more subdued "gym atmosphere." One day a woman I'd met there told me that I should try Danzar stating it was "more fun." I thought, "More fun?!...than this!?" This I had to see for myself! The following week I went to Danzar and found out she was RIGHT. The atmosphere was much more communal and that of a 1 hour Dance Party. The energy was off the hook and it was clear the folks there had forged a wonderful connection with Danzar and each other. I've been a regular there ever since! When you are gathered together with a large group of people, moving in harmony with one another to an insanely infectious rhythm, you feel you are all part of a tribe. A tribe forged by joy! This is Danzar! If you've ever thought of trying out Zumba, come to where you'll have the richest experience. Come with me to Danzar and dance for JOY! read more

Such a wonderful place to go exercise in many different ways! I've been going here for a little over 10 years to kickboxing, Booty Blast (cardio/aerobics), and Zumba. All classes are fun, motivating, and make exercise easy. Clients are a variety of ages, levels, and males and females, so all are welcome! Prices are also affordable! read more

This is what I've been missing in my workout routine: fun, upbeat, heart pumping work outs to good soundtracks and anything but mundane choreography. Such a great time with an always great group of women. read more

Need stress relief? Physical activity? Fellowship? Ventura Danzar offers all three. I came to the classes sporadically over the past couple of years and always enjoyed myself. Decided to put Zumba into my regular exercise routine and started a membership. $45 for unlimited Zumba only is a pretty good price considering the drop in rate is $10 per class. My fellow dancers, many of whom are regulars, have been particularly welcoming and friendly. Gotta love that! If you are shy about dancing in front of others come to the 7:30 pm classes; fewer people and it's a great way to relieve yourself from the stress of the day AND you are sure to reach your 10,000 steps for the day! read more

Ventura Danzar - Dance Studios Near Me - Ventura, California

What a great workout .... and so much fun! All the men and women are welcoming, no judgement like at the bigger gyms. This studio is the bomb! Small and intimate with terrific instructors who care about a solid workout and show their enthusiasm for being there. Highly recommend checking it out. They have drop-in rates, punch cards as well as monthly unlimited memberships. read more

7$ drop in class, no membership required I've tried the Friday 6:30-7:30 Addictive dance class taught by Sarah (sp?). It's like a UJam or hip hop version of Zumba which I like. The songs are pop and hip hop from the radio so I feel like I relate to the music. The moves are easy and repetitive and upbeat allowing you to sweat and have fun while you're doing it! The class is relative small which is nice consisting of about 10 people. This allows you to see yourself in the mirror which is also a nice perk since you can be like "yea! I'm doing this! I look awesome!" :) Outside of Got Rhythm which teaches actual choreography, I would say this would be the next fun hip hop-ish related class in ventura county that's relatively cheap and close to home! Would definitely return. read more

Heather is an amazing instructor, it's a great workout and she makes it really fun. Classes are always a minimum of 10 - 20 in attendance, which says a lot about any place! Guys and gals alike attend Zumba and the bar-ballet-yoga class I took today was fantastic! Heather goes above and beyond as an instructor, she takes the time to make you feel like you have a personal coach! The classes have a very comfortable vibe and the other participants are quite personable and friendly. I love the variety of classes they offer and also the different price options available, you can drop in for just $10 a class or pick a plan that suits your preference and schedule. Can't say enough good stuff about Ventura Danzar & Zumba Fitness read more

Too loud! Very annoying that she wont turn down the volume. Better instructor at the local gym.

Price gouging and deceptive practices are in full force at Danzar. I've been coming since 2017 and have had to fight to be treated fairly. The owner, Ionia, will try to cheat you at every opportunity. In Feb (2023) she raised membership price 50%, promising to "honor members with transparency". She is vague as to what the upgrades will be, nor will she disclose a timeline. I cancelled, in order to understand what paying 50% more was about. Going from $65 monthly to $97.50, then required to sign a one year contract is something to take into consideration. Some members mentioned one positive change: instead of being limited to 3 times per week, now it was 13 times per month, which incurs zero cost, and is so much more member friendly, as she will not allow you to pause membership for vacation or illness (like Covid). So I asked Ionia directly what improvements were to be implemented, she said "that information is for members, you are not a member", although, I'm friends with most members and none of them were given any information. After only one month of cancelling my membership, I was still willing to renew. Then she said that she no longer offered membership options. There is only ONE membership at $149. a month for unlimited. There was NEVER ANY TRANSPARENCY about this drastic increase. Had I known she was going to price gouge, I would not have cancelled. Because I challenged her fairness, she banned me from the studio, and from using the punch card I had already purchased. In her business wisdom, she'd rather lose a $100. Monthly membership ($1,200 a year) than do the right thing and admit she was deceptive and unfair. So much for being a loyal member. She has alienated so many people, even instructors, who will never work with her again. This review is 100% about Ionia's mismanagement, severe lack of people skills, and lack of integrity. The instructors (not Ionia) are top notch and deserve so much better than Danzar. In the 11 years danzar has been open they have never received a raise and are even asked to do administrative task and cleaning. She has no competition at the moment, that's the only reason she is still in business. I truly believe if there was another studio she would fail immediately. read more

Best kept secret in Ventura! Ionia is not only an excellent Zumba instructor but a great choreographer. All the other instructors: Ida, Ellie & Jorge are top notch too. Unlike the Zumba class instructors at the big box gyms who seem to be in it for their own personal workout, who look as though they are solo dancing & who could care less if you are having fun and/or keeping up, most of the instructors at Danzar ensure instructions/steps are clear and everyone is having fun. The classes & experience there is really like being at a party. Additionally, there is plenty of parking in the back which is a big plus. read more

I love Danzar for so many reasons! The studio atmosphere is so comfortable and welcoming. You really get to know the instructors and they get to know you. That inspires you to keep going and also ensures you are using good form and get the most from your workouts. Danzar has great zumba classes, but it's much more than Zumba. I love all of their fitness classes and at 62 years old, I have been supported in all of them. Oh, and I've lost 30 pounds since I first started there three years ago. If you have struggled to consistently exercise, try Danzar. The team there and the people that go will get you hooked. read more

Ventura Danzar - Dance Studios Near Me - Ventura, California

Danzar is the place to sweat it out! High energy Zumba classes and challenging strength classes. Several classes at 6:30 and 7:30 PM that fit my very busy schedule. I have a very busy stressful life and if it wasn't for the wonderful classes and staff at Danzar I wouldn't be able to be at my best to take care of my family. Unlike large gyms who don't care to know me by name Danzar has a friendly vibe where they know me by name and encourage me to do my best. Wonderful for All level levels and especially warm and welcoming to beginners. Very flexible prices, drop into any class or choose a package that suits your needs and budget. I Love the owner Ionia, she has charity events and celebrates holidays with fun dress up in classes. She truly cares about this beautiful town we live in and my personal health and fitness. read more

I SO look forward to class, where I am focusing on nothing more than my dance moves and the music. I love that one feels no judgment and just support from the class. The teachers are uniformly excellent, although each has a different musical preference and style. Since starting 3 years ago, I can move my hips, legs, back and shoulders in ways that are new and STRONG. As I told some friends this morning, the classes I have taken and the community I have gained at Zumba Danzar have saved my life. When I was caring for sick family members and navigating a move to a new city, Zumba at Danzar was key to helping me respond to the challenges in front of me. Besids all that, monthly membership is a great value. read more

Really sad about having to leave this review. I enjoyed this place while I was a member. However, I had to cancel due to relocating for work. I had a membership with them , and when I put in the required request to cancel in October (it's now December) they are still debiting my credit card $45.00/month, despite me following their guidelines of cancellation. They haven't responded to my phone calls or voicemails and half the time their voicemail is full. I sent an email to the owner, Ionia, and two months later still haven't heard anything back. Very disappointed and frustrated. I'd stay away from a membership here. read more

I was very nervous about starting to exercise and dance after MANY years of mostly inactivity. My sister dragged me to Zumba. I'm so glad she did. This studio is so welcoming and encouraging of all people and all levels of fitness. From the Zumba addicts who've been coming for years to the people who are recovering from injuries and need to sit in a chair while exercising, all are getting the level and pace of a workout that meets their personal needs. I also love the strapped class with yoga on Saturdays. It has helped stretch and strengthen my core which has led to far less chiro visits. The instructors are varied in their music, style and tempo so I can always attend the type of class that suits my needs. No cons for this establishment. A great studio that's inclusive of all and gives me a positive lift and awesome workout. read more

Ventura Danzar Zumba studio has been a highlight of my exercise program and social life!! Can't say enough about the fun dance routines and friendships that have added so much to my quality of life!! I would encourage anyone to try a class and feel the joy. You don't have to be a dancer or athlete to enjoy the energy and friendly new faces! Give yourself the gift of a healthier life!! read more

Monthly pass for $65, but the owner (who is difficult and has no interest in customer service) often cancels or adds surcharges to regularily scheduled classes. So $65/month does not buy you a reliable number of classes. Complain and the reply is if you dont like it leave. Too bad because the classes are fun. The $7 another reviewer mentioned has been raised to $10. read more

I have been going to Danzar for 8 years for good reason! It really worked to get my body in shape as well as make lots of wonderful friends. The instructors are the best in the area and Ionia, the owner, is always encouraging giving personalized attention whenever needed. This great group is all there to have fun so no one is judging my weird dance moves. I'm 71 and still going strong thanks to Zumba and Danzar. read more

Terrible customer service. I asked the owner to put the air conditioner on while we participate in our classes. She said ,"working out is not always supposed to be comfortable " in addition , She said , " I'd suggest to you ,if you like the classes at our studio, that you make the best of it". She finished with,"if it is uncomfortable for you to participate in our fitness classes then we might not be the right fit for you". This coming from Ionia the owner who is a vivacious teacher , when teaching she morphs into this smiling, energetics high spirited person. The other time she is the coldest most impersonal person you could meet. No customer service in her back ground . When you are in the public and especially when your marketing your business you need to be kind, warm and inviting 100% of the time. Lonia really lacks that . After 2 years of attending classes at studio her response to me caused me to cancel my membership. Whatever happen to , handling customers more respectfully. Her personality will be the demise of her business sorry to say. read more

This is an amazing studio. I can't say enough about Ionia , the owner, how kind, talented ,encouraging and frankly life changing she is! You feel at home here with the other Zumba members and it is the most fun workout you will ever experience. There are many classes available for all stages of life and ability! I highly recommend coming !!! read more

Just took my first class at Danzar. It was fantastic! It was a great workout and the instructor was fun. I love the dance moves -the class was upbeat and kept us moving. It was $7.00 or you can purchase a punch card. Bring water and a towel -there are nice bins along the dance floor to store your personal items. Highly recommend! read more

After more than 6 years dancing at this wonderful studio, I continue every time I go there to get a great workout, a release of endorphins and a joyful attitude to carry throughout the rest of the day! Ionia runs a rare gem of a studio unlike anything you'll find at the big box gyms. She is a master instructor and inspiring person to know. Every instructor has a unique style and personality which keeps the experiences fresh, authentic and satisfying. You don't need to know how to dance to get a great workout---just allow yourself to be swept up in the fun and joy of the class and you'll figure it out after a few times. Then you'll be addicted and will want to make it a regular part of your life! read more

Love this place! I've always had a great experience taking zumba here. The instructors are fun, energetic, and truly have a passion for dance. They offer zumba and other types of classes as well like cardio kickboxing. For only $5 bucks a class you definitely get your moneys worth. Great instructors, fun classes, and friendly faces...check it out! read more

Zumba is a great way to burn calories and Danzar is a really fun place to dance and an excellent value. I started out just doing Zumba but soon tried most of the classes offered. The Insanity, Kick Boxing and Strapped classes are a good strength counterpart to Zumba and, if you include good diet habits, will really make a difference and help you get in shape. I really appreciate the attention the instructors give to students to make sure they are performing the exercises properly. Ionia, in particular, takes time to walk around the room to check on form and to offer encouragement. While I still can't dance worth beans, I look forward to the classes and know I'll get a little better each time. I wouldn't mind earlier morning classes on the weekend, but I'm guessing the schedule has been honed to suit the needs of the majority of the members. read more

I am sad to have to write this. I've been going to this studio for 6 years. The instructors are amazing and the students are fun and welcoming. BUT... the owner is exactly as all of the poor reviews describe. She does not listen to her customers and makes it clear she could care less what anyone thinks. If you try to make a suggestion or complaint about something, she gets defensive and reacts with personal attacks and name calling instead of professionalism. I've noticed it throughout the years but put up with it because I love the studio and the rest of the people. I would highly recommend you do NOT sign a contract with her. She just doubled all of her members fees with less than 2 weeks notice even though her cancellation policy requires 30 days notice. She refuses to answer any questions or concerns in email, instead she prefers to talk in person so that she can verbally attack her customers without it being recorded. I was planning to only cancel my membership and move to punch cards due to how often I attend. Instead after my interaction with the owner, I will never be returning to this studio. Will see if she tries to keep charging me monthly as she has done to others. I have many friends that have similar stories to tell, so this is not an isolated event. BE WARNED. read more

Danzar changed my life. I moved to Ventura in 2014 after graduating from UCSB. I liked the town itself but was going through some serious depression, alcoholism, and packing on the pounds. A year passed and I never felt truly connected to Ventura and most of my friends remained in Santa Barbara (or had scattered across the state to move back home after graduation). In September 2015, I started my graduate program at UCSB and realized that in order to do best at school, I needed to make a significant life change. I looked into places I could do Zumba on Yelp and Danzar had great reviews so I decided to try it. I was hooked instantly and signed on for a year-long membership not long after. Ionia (the owner) is insanely talented and inspiring and has a strong team of knowledgeable, caring instructors who keep you coming back (shoutout to Rachel, Richelle, and Ellie!). Danzar gave me a sense of belonging in Ventura, like it was finally my "home." The people who congregate here are sweet, supportive, and encouraging. For the first time in my life I consider myself "fit"; after 10 months of consistent Zumba and healthy eating I've lost over 20 pounds. And even more importantly, I'm the strongest and most confident I have ever been in my entire life. I can't wait to see where I'll be in another 10 months! #teamdanzar read more

The class was great. The people running the Business, terrible. Never sign anything right after a workout. The Gym should no this. Ive been trying to cancel my Membership since the week after I went there once, being told you should have read the contract, well dont have people sign contracts after a work out. Told not until after 4 months. Well 4 months in now around the corner and i call again to cancel, of course they ask why and i explain i didnt realise that i was signing up for a reaccuring fee, with the same well you should never sign something you dont read. Which i wanted to slap her in the face, well she explains that a letter requesting the cancelation is needed. Then they say if you cancel before 4 months then its a $50 fee. I say why didnt the person tell me that 2 months ago now $65 later i could have saved $15. So then i get a call again today saying its hoing to be $50 cancelation. I say no its 4 months the letter states that final payment is to be Aug _ and then membership stops Sept. well the letter is dated July si we go by the date of the letter. (Are you an idiot?) the letter is dated to show it was sent but it clearly states the terms. As did your contract except mine is two sentences. Which she says well we go by the date on the letter. Yeah Aug _ is in the letter clearly stating the terms. Then i explain you shouldn't have people sign contracts after a workout they barley can breath let alone sign a contract fully aware. Then she goes on again well you shouldn't sign anything with out reading it would you buy a house with out readying the contract. I didn't hold a guy to your head and say sign. The went a yelling match on the phone. The worst customer service EVER! No matter the Dance Teacher(who was great) with management like this i could NEVER recommend this place. #Worstgymmembershipcancelationstory read more

I first heard about Danzar in 2012, shortly after it opened. I went one time and fell in love with the place and the people! July of that same year I broke my arm and suffered major nerve damage. After surgery, I attended Zumba classes with my arm in a sling. I couldn't move my wrist or fingers until the nerve regenerated, which took some time. I strongly believe Danzar contributed to the healing process. Ionia's visionary studio has come to life over the past 8 years through its dancers' smiles, friendships, and strong community ties. The regular classes range from Zumba, Zumba Gold, Zumba Gold Toning, Booty Blast, Strapped Strength, and Strapped Yoga, to Strong by Zumba. In addition, there are workshops on particular dance rhythms and special collaborations with visiting dancers and choreographers. The special events offered are a bonus, but every day the classes change lives. The instructors are talented, friendly, and do everything in their power to encourage and support participants. People with injuries are shown concern and attention, and diversity is a core value. It's hard to adequately express my gratitude for this place, a home away from home for so many. We would love to see you there soon! read more

Great facility - Clean, airy and great floor for dance -They've got some of the best instructors in the area hands down. Don't be afraid to try it out with a $5 walk in fee. Try it once- you'll be back! read more

This place is magic and I don't think I could say enough good things. Every last teacher is so sweet, high energy, easy to follow, supportive, and brings the enthusiasm that makes a dance class addictive and wanting more. Not only is it a killer workout (my heart rate monitor usually maps around 700 calories burned/hour) but it is an incredible stress relief and hobby. After taking zumba for a year it is safe to say my energy and love for Danzar is through the roof. The owner, Ionia, is an incredible and motivating woman with a wealth of resources regarding anything involving diet, muscle strength, maintenance, care, and health advice in general, she's amazing and a skilled dancer/choreographer. I also highly highly recommend the addictive dance class on Friday nights with Sarah for a more hip hop vibe that's a fun escape out of your comfort zone and a great time all around. LOVE this place and can without a doubt say my life is better because of it, and I know my friends I've made there feel the same way :D read more

Love this sweet local studio. Good people. The teachers all have unique styles. I'm partial to Addictive Dance/U-Jam and Zumba!! Highly recommend. read more

LoveLoveLove The instructors are full of life and their energy just makes you want to Zumba your heart out. The owner Ionia has such a great spirit about her. Rachel, Jorge and Ellie are equally awesome!!! Every class I take just makes me want more. I started taking classes at the end of April and I'm down 35lbs!!!' Its not working out to me it's dancing to be healthy and it's so much fun!!!!! read more