Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiara Ginyard.
Hi Tiara, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Who would have known a little girl from the east side would have made it this far? I’m still not exactly where I want to be, but I’m incredibly grateful for where I’ve been and how far I’ve come.
I’ve been dancing since I was five years old, and it has always been my passion. Dance was a constant in my life—I was always involved in something dance-related and was part of various teams throughout high school and college. As I got older, especially in college, I started to notice something missing in the dance community: there weren’t many plus-size dancers being represented. In my career, I was often the plus-size dancer on the team. That never discouraged me. If anything, it pushed me harder and made me want to show other plus-size women that they, too, could dance, feel confident, and take up space if they wanted to.
At one point, I attended a local class and immediately felt unwelcome. I was side-eyed and treated differently because of my size, and that moment stuck with me. Instead of shrinking myself, it confirmed what I already knew—that there needed to be more inclusive spaces where people could move freely without judgment.
While I was in college, I started teaching a few classes, even before the ConFITdance name existed. Attendance was small, but it was a start. Eventually, I paused to focus on my studies, but once I graduated, I realized I wanted to do more than just dance classes. I wanted to combine dance and fitness in a way that liberated women—to help them feel confident in their bodies while also getting fit.
My first major step was hosting a heels dance class, and around that same time, I was collaborating with a high school friend of mine, Alexis, on her podcast, A Plus Size Problem. That space focused heavily on body positivity, and that’s really where everything started to take off. We originally named the concept “Confidance,” which later evolved into ConFITdance. The class was a success, but I still spent a lot of time behind the scenes trying to figure out my lane in the Detroit area.
After returning home from college, I knew I had to make a name for myself. I attended other classes, built relationships with instructors, and eventually relaunched my heels class. As time went on, I added more class formats and experiences for my clients. For several months, attendance was rough—there were plenty of classes where no one showed up at all. Instead of quitting, I used that time to create routines, record content, and consistently show up on social media to promote the brand.
I didn’t stop. I kept going, because I knew the work had to come before the growth. Now, ten years after that first step into teaching, the last two years especially have shown what consistency can do. Today, we sell out classes and struggle to keep spots open—and that’s something I’m deeply grateful for. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been real, and I’m proud of what I’ve built and what’s still ahead.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to believe in myself even when the support wasn’t there yet. There were long stretches where I was putting in the work, showing up consistently, and giving my all, but the attendance, visibility, and recognition just didn’t match the effort. Teaching classes to empty rooms was discouraging, especially when you’re pouring your heart into something you believe in.
Another challenge was navigating the industry as a plus-size woman. There’s an unspoken bias that exists in dance and fitness, and I’ve had to work twice as hard to be taken seriously. I’ve experienced being overlooked, underestimated, and not always welcomed into certain spaces. Instead of letting that stop me, I used it as motivation to create a space where everyone felt seen, safe, and celebrated.
I’ve also had business relationships and collaborations come to an end simply because they weren’t the right fit. That was difficult, especially early on, but I learned that not every partnership is meant to last—and that walking away can be just as important as starting. Those moments didn’t stop me; they helped me get clearer about my vision, my values, and the kind of energy I wanted around my brand.
On top of that, balancing entrepreneurship with real life came with its own challenges. I was funding everything myself, wearing every hat, and learning through trial and error. There were moments of doubt, burnout, and questioning whether it was all worth it. What kept me going was purpose and consistency. I reminded myself that growth doesn’t happen overnight, and that the work you do when no one is watching is what builds longevity.
The road hasn’t been easy, but every obstacle shaped me and prepared me for where I am now. Nothing stopped me—I kept going, and I’m stronger because of it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about ConFITdance LLC.?
ConFITdance is more than a dance or fitness brand—it’s a confidence-building community. At its core, ConFITdance combines dance and fitness in a way that’s effective, fun, and inclusive. We specialize in classes that actually work, blending HIIT-style training with dance-based movement so clients are getting a real workout while still enjoying the experience.
Our most popular class right now is Step n’ Twerk, which has become a signature offering of the brand. What makes it special is not just the workout, but the energy and accessibility. Our community ranges in age from 17 to 72 years old—I recently had a client turn 72 the very day she came to class, and she not only showed up, but truly enjoyed herself. That alone speaks to what ConFITdance represents.
Beyond Step n’ Twerk, we offer a wide variety of classes including Pilates, trampoline fitness, beginner heels, pole fitness, twerk fitness, and adult majorette, which is one of our newest offerings. As the brand continues to grow, so do the ways we serve our community. There’s truly something for everyone, no matter where they are in their fitness or confidence journey.
What sets ConFITdance apart is the intention behind it. This brand was built from lived experience, not trends. I lead by example and grow alongside my clients, which creates trust and authenticity. We focus on consistency, accountability, and community, while celebrating progress in all forms—not just physical transformation, but mental and emotional growth as well.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how ConFITdance has expanded beyond the studio while staying rooted in purpose. I’ve had the opportunity to work with brands both locally and nationally, including being featured in a Glam-Aholic Lifestyle promotional video as the plus-size dancer representing the brand in her signature leggings. In 2024 and 2025 especially, we accomplished a lot—collaborating with Black Girl Vitamins to host a free Black History Month fitness class for the Detroit community, working with Angie Starr of 105.9 Kiss FM, and performing her hit song “Stop N’ Twerk” live at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre.
I’ve also taken Step n’ Twerk on the road nationally, hosting successful classes in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Orlando. Being able to travel, teach, and see the impact of ConFITdance outside of Detroit has been incredibly rewarding and affirming.
What I want readers to know is that ConFITdance is truly for everybody. Whether you’re brand new to fitness, returning after a break, or looking for something that feels different from a traditional gym setting, there’s a place for you here. We offer in-person classes, virtual options, and on-demand experiences to meet people where they are. At the end of the day, ConFITdance is about confidence, community, and reminding people that their body is capable—right now, exactly as it is.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If there’s one thing I’d want readers to take away, it’s that growth doesn’t always look loud or instant. A lot of what ConFITdance has become was built during quiet seasons—when no one was watching, when classes were empty, and when quitting would have been the easier choice. Staying consistent and believing in the vision, even during those moments, made all the difference.
I also want people to know that confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. Movement played a huge role in that for me, and that’s what I aim to pass on through this brand. ConFITdance is proof that you don’t have to fit a certain mold to create something impactful. You just have to be willing to show up, stay true to yourself, and keep going.
Lastly, I’m grateful for every person who has supported, attended, shared, or believed in this journey along the way. This brand is still evolving, and I’m excited about what’s next. The best is truly still ahead.
Pricing:
- in person classes $10 per class
- monthly membership $50 per month
- virtual monthly membership $15 per month
- Virtual annual membership $99 per year
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.confitdance.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_confitdance/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/confitdancellc/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@confitdance7884?app=desktop
