March 10, 2025

For Heidi Callister, dance fitness isn’t just about working out—it’s about finding joy, confidence, and community. Since joining CARD in January as a SHiNE Dance Fitness instructor, Heidi has been bringing her passion for movement to a growing group of enthusiastic participants. Her class, held in the spacious and welcoming CARD Community Center, offers the perfect environment for people of all backgrounds and experience levels to come together, let loose, and dance their way to better health.

Heidi’s journey to becoming a SHiNE instructor is both inspiring and relatable. Though she grew up active in sports and fitness, she found herself struggling with motivation and happiness as she transitioned into adulthood. Determined to regain her love for movement, she joined a supportive gym that reignited her passion for fitness. Encouraged by a close friend to step out of her comfort zone, Heidi became a fitness coach at the age of 39—a leap she never expected to take.

It was at a retreat for her gym that Heidi discovered SHiNE Dance Fitness, a program that blends jazz, ballet, hip hop, and high-energy interval training into a dynamic and uplifting workout. Instantly hooked, she earned her certification and began sharing her love for SHiNE with others. When the gym she was teaching at closed, she knew she couldn’t stop. The sense of community and empowerment that SHiNE provided was too important to let go of.

What sets SHiNE apart, Heidi says, is its inclusivity. “It’s for anyone and everyone. You don’t have to be a trained dancer—you just have to want to move and have fun.” Each class is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, whether participants have years of dance experience or have never set foot in a dance studio before. The routines are energetic and engaging, but also forgiving—there’s no pressure to be perfect, just to keep moving and enjoying the music.

For Heidi, the most rewarding part of teaching SHiNE Dance Fitness is the connections she makes with her students. “It’s more than just fitness,” she explains. “It’s about empowerment, support, and confidence. Seeing people step out of their comfort zones, embrace movement, and build confidence in themselves—that’s what inspires me.”

Her message to anyone considering the class? “Don’t overthink it—just come and have fun. SHiNE is about letting go, moving in a way that makes you happy, and forgetting about stress for an hour. And remember, confidence is a muscle—the more you flex it, the stronger it gets.”

If you’re looking for a fun, welcoming way to get active and connect with others, come dance with Heidi at SHiNE Dance Fitness. No experience required—just a willingness to move, sweat, and smile! Classes are Tuesdays from 5:30–6:30 PM at the CARD Community Center, with a drop-in registration option. Learn more and sign up today at www.chicorec.gov/shine.

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About Chico Area Recreation & Park District

Established in 1948, the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is a California Special District dedicated to enriching the community through diverse recreational opportunities. CARD brings friends and families together to create joyful experiences and lasting memories. It oversees 17 community and neighborhood parks, four community centers, a swimming pool, the Chico Creek Nature Center, and more. CARD’s Play Guide showcases a wide variety of sports, classes, camps, and special events designed for all ages. Discover more about CARD at chicorec.gov.