Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakiem Evans.
Hi Shakiem, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Shakiem Evans. I am the owner of the fitness brand, X By SHAKIEM. We are currently offering our classes, which include Barre, HIIT, and mat pilates in Upper Montclair, NJ. I started my company in the fall of 2020 during covid. I am a former professional dancer, actor, and singer, having performed on Bway, film, and television. My professional experience and background has greatly influenced the unique style and format of my fitness classes. Several of the yoga studios and gyms i’ve taught at were Bode NYC and Bikram Yoga Herald Sq, both in New York City. The New Jersey studios include, Zura Montclair, Indiqo Yoga in West Caldwell, Surya Yoga in Jersey City, Nirvana Yoga in Wayne, and Bells Fit in West Orange. I’ve also had the opportunity to teach internationally in Umbria, Italy and also for The Alvin Ailey’s AileyCamp Program.
My unique classes are all inclusive and great for all fitness levels, Individuals who may be just starting their fitness journey will benefit from the classes as well as the professional dancer and athlete who are looking to maintain their fitness goals.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a business during covid was a major challenge but we survived. At a time when most studios and workout facilities were closed, we managed to stay open with social distancing and wearing masks. Most of the classes are performed in a heated room so as you can imagine, wearing a mask in 100d room was tough to say the least. My clients were very grateful to have an outlet to strengthen and heal their bodies and minds at such aa stressful time in all of our lives.
In 2024, I also went into a business partnership that went south rather quickly for several reasons. I learned tremendously from that experience.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Former professional actor, dancer, and singer. My expertise, training , and skillset has greatly influenced the unique classes. I’m known for creating challenging but accessible workouts for all fitness levels.
A few of my professional credits include lead roles on Bway in Mamma Mia!, Fame on 42nd St, and Two Gentleman of Verona. Lead roles on film and television include, Center Stage, The Other Guys, That’s Life, and Sabrina , the Teenage Witch, to name a few.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I ‘m not sure it’s luck but I’d like to think that my clients are loyal not only because the classes are effective but also because i’m kind and respect all of my clients fitness goals.
Pricing:
- all pricing can be found on the Mind Body App
- website X By SHAKIEM
Contact Info:
- Website: X By SHAKIEM
- Instagram: @XBySHAKIEM and @SHAKIEMEVANS
- Facebook: @SHAKIEM
