Shanghai Gymnastics
Shanghai Gymnastics is the inevitable option as far as the sport goes in Shanghai – and for good reason. They cater to both boys and girls ages 3 to 18 in three locations in Puxi and Pudong. They teach fundamental skills through a system focused on technique and motor ability. They offer different classes such as cheerleading, basic gymnastics and a specific class for tumbling. They also have parkour classes, which incorporates conditioning into fun and games. If you don’t see the class you are interested in, they allow you to request a class if there are at least four students. Competitive teams are also available.
See listings for Shanghai Gymnastics.
Zy Dance
Newly opened in spring 2016, this dance studio was created by Shi Zongyi, a former professional soloist dancer and renowned dance instructor. The classes are taught in English by current or former professional dancers. They host a range of dance classes, including classical ballet, contemporary, street jazz, lyrical jazz, hip-hop, Latin dance and Chinese dance. The studio caters to both adults and kids over the age of 3. Classes for kids are kept small and age-defined so they can get better individual care. Classes focus on grace, confidence, rhythm, coordination and flexibility.
See listing for Zy Dance Studio.
Dance Works
This studio caters to the international community in Shanghai, striving to provide a unique range of fitness and dance performance opportunities. Located in Pudong’s Ambassy Club, it aims to create a student-centric environment where young dancers are encouraged to think as artists through patterns, music and movement. This studio goes past just being an outlet for fitness; it teaches the appreciation for the art of dance and tries to make it a part of their well-rounded being. They cater to all levels, ages 3 and up, trying to promote a healthy lifestyle and foster creativity. The majority of kids’ classes are held on Sundays, as well as some on weeknights. Adult classes, including Zumba, jazz and piloxing, are also available here.
See official website.
Z&B Fitness
You may know of Z&B Fitness because of their killer adult cycling and boot camp classes, but they have rolled out a whole schedule of kids’ dance classes at both their locations – ideal for your little ones under age 12. The Zumba classes are 60 minutes for ages 6 to 12, and 45 minutes for the Zumba Kids Jr. (best for kids ages 3 to 5). They also offer kids and toddler ballet lessons that teach the basic concepts of classical ballet, musicality and coordination. Right now, their kids’ classes are mainly available at their Changle Lu location, but kids ballet will be starting in mid-October at their brand new studio in Jing’an.
See listings for Z&B.
Artist Dance Complex
Founded in 2008 as a collaboration between Weng Shiji and Pamela Bouthillier, Artist Dance Complex welcomes adults and children alike to learn dance through formal classes. Children’s classes are taught in both English and Chinese by internationally accredited teachers. Styles offered include Western, Ballet, Street, and Latin. With class sizes of up to 10 students, ADC is sure to provide your child the individualized attention he or she needs.
See listing for Artist Dance Complex.
Dance Studio 5
Dance Studio 5, founded by Noemie Sun and Corine Englander, is the premier French-language studio in Shanghai with classes also taught in English and Chinese. The studio offers classes in ballet and tap for children ages 4 and up and a creative movement class for children ages 3-5. In addition to their own adult classes, parents can also participate in parent and baby yoga classes. Services include dance lessons and training, artistic workshops, choreography for events and wedding dance lessons.
See listing for Dance Studio 5.
Souldancing
Souldancing was founded by dancers, for dancers. The atmosphere is informal and family-friendly with a highly interactive teaching approach. Ballet is currently the only dance style offered for children, but frequent performances, group events and exclusive workshops will ensure that your child gets the very best. For a small fee, you can drop by anytime and try one of the classes, or be invited by a Souldancing member to try it out for free!
See listing for Souldancing.
Fusion Art Center
FAC was founded in 2008 by Grace Wu and has since grown to become one of the largest boutique dance studios in Shanghai. Located in the heart of Shanghai City, the studio offers daily classes of a wide range of dance styles for both kids and adults from Salsa, Contemporary, Jazz, Flamenco, Bachata, Kizomba, Afro-Cuban and more. Salsa Director Robin Koh joined Grace in 2009 and turned Fusion into one of the top Salsa studios in all of China. The 600 meter facility is designed with high-ceilings, sprung wooden-floors and high-end ventilation systems, providing a safe and professional environment.
See listing for Fusion Art Center.
