About Us

Your Uptown Space for Joy, Strength, and Community Connection

Move with Joy. Dance with Freedom. Join Your Community.

How Two Chicago Communities Joined Forces to Create a New Movement Experience

The Uptown Dance & Fitness Collective was born from a partnership between Thwack Dance and Stay The Course (STC) Fitness. Founded in 2020 by Anne Marie Loesch, Thwack Dance grew from free outdoor classes into a champion for inclusive movement. By combining that creative spirit with the empowering, strength-building mission of STC Fitness, we’ve created a welcoming home for beginners and returning movers on Chicago’s North Side.

We started with only 12 mats and now support over 300 active students every month.

Commitment to Helping Students Build a Healthier and More Balanced Life

Our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their well-being by offering classes that nurture the body, calm the mind, and strengthen personal awareness.

Mindful Progress

We encourage students to grow at their own pace with steady, intentional improvement.

Inclusive Space

We create a welcoming, mirror-free environment where every level and every body feels supported.

Sustainable Wellness

We help students build habits that support long-term balance and healthy living.

What Students Can Expect Every Time They Step Into The Collective

01

Guidance that prioritizes safety and body awareness for every student.

02

Classes designed to balance physical challenge with mindful relaxation.

03

A warm and encouraging atmosphere that supports personal growth.

04

Routines that help students move better and feel stronger over time.

Group of Teachers Dedicated to Your Well-Being

Our team is united by a shared commitment to mindful movement, compassionate guidance, and helping each student feel grounded and supported.

Anne Marie Loesch

Founder of Thwack Dance & Movement Specialist
Founder of Thwack Dance and a movement specialist dedicated to creating a welcoming space where people can explore dance, fitness, and joyful movement.

STC Fitness Coaches

Strength, Accountability & Empowerment
Expert coaches focused on strength training, accountability, and helping members build lasting fitness habits.

Dance Leads

Specialists in Beginning Ballet & Contemporary Flow
Bring expertise in beginner technique, offering ballet and contemporary classes that emphasize creative flow in a mirror-free environment.

Yoga Guides

Dedicated to Mindful Balance and Recovery
Power yoga instructor guiding students to build strength, balance, and confidence through mindful movement.