Defy Gravity - Pole Fitness and Aerial Arts Studio

- 158 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801

For Illinois residents looking to break away from the traditional gym routine, Defy Gravity - Pole Fitness and Aerial Arts Studio in Urbana offers an exhilarating alternative. This isn't your average gym; it's a specialty studio dedicated to a unique form of fitness that combines strength, flexibility, and artistry. Located right here in the Champaign-Urbana area, Defy Gravity is a vibrant and inclusive community that empowers individuals of all fitness levels to challenge themselves and discover a new way to move their bodies. The studio's philosophy centers on gaining strength, confidence, and a positive body image in a supportive environment, which is a key part of its appeal. As one customer noted, the instructors are "wonderful at answering my questions and helping me figure out difficult moves," which highlights the personalized attention and care given to each student.

Defy Gravity is a place where you can find a truly different and engaging workout. The studio offers a wide variety of classes, from foundational pole fitness to aerial arts like lyra, silks, and trapeze. This diversity ensures that there's always something new to try and a way to progress in your fitness journey. The environment is praised for being incredibly supportive, with students and instructors creating a welcoming atmosphere. This sense of community is crucial for helping beginners feel comfortable, as another reviewer mentioned, "the instructor was so so kind and encouraging. I also really loved the atmosphere from the other students." It's a space where you can be yourself, try new things, and be cheered on by those around you.

While the studio may feel new to some, as one review suggested, it is a well-established and growing part of the local fitness scene. Defy Gravity is a go-to spot for those who have a passion for a non-traditional workout or are simply curious to try something new. The challenging and fun nature of their classes makes exercise feel less like a chore and more like a creative pursuit, which is a major draw for people seeking a refreshing change in their fitness routine.

Defy Gravity is located within the Lincoln Square Mall at 158 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801, USA. Finding the studio can be a bit tricky if you're new to the area, as one review noted, but its central location in the heart of Urbana makes it a convenient option for residents across the Champaign-Urbana area. The studio is best accessed through the north entrance of the mall, which helps to simplify navigation. The location within a shopping center also means there is ample parking available for patrons.

The studio demonstrates a commitment to accessibility for all. A key feature is the wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which makes it easier for individuals with mobility needs to visit and participate. This thoughtful provision ensures that the unique and empowering fitness classes at Defy Gravity are available to a wider range of people in the community. The on-site amenities, including a restroom, also add to the convenience and comfort of the experience. While some may find the initial entrance small, the welcoming and encouraging atmosphere inside more than makes up for it.

• Pole Fitness: Classes for all levels, from beginners in Pole Fundamentals to advanced students, focusing on spins, climbs, and choreography.
• Aerial Arts: Instruction in various apparatuses, including lyra (aerial hoop), silks, and trapeze, for all skill levels.
• Conditioning & Flexibility Classes: Sessions focused on building strength and increasing flexibility, which are crucial for pole and aerial arts.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one or two-on-one coaching for personalized skill development on your own schedule.
• Private Group Classes & Parties: Offers custom private classes for groups celebrating birthdays, graduations, or bachelorette parties.
• Specialty Classes: Includes offerings like Chair Dance, Floorwork, and Heels classes, as well as classes for specific groups such as "Fluffy Kitty" for plus-sized individuals.
• Monthly Memberships & Class Packs: Flexible payment options including drop-in classes, class packs of various sizes, and monthly memberships.

• Empowering and Inclusive Community: The studio is known for its supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to defy their own limits. It is a "body positive, Health At Every Size (HAES) space."
• Variety of Unique Classes: Offers a wide range of unique fitness options beyond the traditional gym, providing something for everyone, from beginners to advanced students.
• Highly Encouraging Instructors: The instructors are praised for being kind, patient, and wonderful at helping students navigate new and challenging moves.
• Personalized Attention: Classes are small and personal, ensuring each student receives bespoke attention from the instructors.
• Accessibility: Features a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making the studio a more inclusive space for the community.
• Convenient Location: Situated in the Lincoln Square Mall with plenty of parking available.
• Flexible Options: Offers single drop-in classes, multi-class packs, and monthly memberships to suit different budgets and schedules.

Address: 158 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801, USA

Phone: (217) 516-4613

For those in Illinois seeking a new and exciting way to approach fitness, Defy Gravity - Pole Fitness and Aerial Arts Studio is a compelling choice. The most significant reason to choose this studio is its unique and empowering approach to exercise. Instead of the mundane repetition of a typical gym, Defy Gravity offers a creative and artistic way to build strength, increase flexibility, and boost confidence. As one customer noted, the classes are not only great but also include conditioning, which shows that the studio is committed to building true strength alongside skill. This makes the fitness journey not just effective but also genuinely fun and engaging.

Another major factor is the inclusive and supportive community. The studio prides itself on being an "unconditional love community" where all are welcome, regardless of "size, current fitness level, age, sex, gender, race, or anything like that." The friendly and encouraging atmosphere, praised by multiple reviewers, is a huge benefit for anyone who might feel intimidated by a new type of workout. The instructors are known for their kindness and patience, which is crucial for mastering new and challenging moves. This sense of belonging makes Defy Gravity more than just a place to work out; it becomes a supportive network where people can grow and feel accepted.

Finally, the wide variety of classes and flexible payment options make it easy to start and continue your fitness journey. With everything from Pole Fundamentals for beginners to specialized classes like "Plus Size Aerial Fundamentals" and a variety of aerial arts, there is truly something for everyone. The ability to choose between single classes, class packs, and monthly memberships means you can find an option that fits your budget and schedule. While one review mentioned the stationary poles, it is important to remember that this may be part of the foundational training for beginners. This, combined with the professional and encouraging staff, makes Defy Gravity a premier destination for anyone in Illinois who wants to redefine their fitness journey and achieve things they never thought possible.

Defy Gravity - Pole Fitness and Aerial Arts Studio

158 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801, USA