WAC Magazine

September 2012

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Fitness By Amy Schumacher, WAC Personal Trainer Get up and dance S back, the sinewy 29-year-old says he was ready for a change. Everything about Seattle seemed different, he says. Six years later, Sean has found a place in the Northwest dance community, made a name for himself at a national level and—perhaps best for WAC members—signed on as the Club's first barre instructor. instruction came naturally. As a classically trained dancer, he refers to barre as the "meat and potatoes" of ballet—more cardio and less "floofy." Derived from ballet technique, barre offers members an opportunity to tone and strengthen their bodies in a way they may never have before. "A lot of ballet is not natural," Sean says. "I like to bring the architecture of the body into the studio." His personal architecture, along with years of practice and dedication to dance, led Sean to twice advance through auditions of the television show So You Think You Can Dance—first in L.A. and again when fifth season tryouts came to Seattle. Ironically, his success in front of celebrity judges led Sean to realize a career in commercial dance wasn't what he wanted. Ever since, he's focused on creating his own works and seeking his ideal dance opportunities. On September For Sean, barre ean Cormack moved to Seattle from Los Angeles six years ago to continue his dance training at prestigious Cornish College of the Arts. Looking Barre instructor inspires new form of WAC fitness 28–29, he and a friend will perform their new work, titled Split Bill, at Seattle's Velocity Dance Center (itsseanb.com/ splitbill.html). Sean describes it as "a sexy, powerful and dramatic performance." introducing others to dance and the physical benefits of dance training. "I am all about making sure that you leave with a smile," he says. "I want you to sweat, but I also want you to not be afraid to laugh and have fun." At the WAC, he focuses on During a class earlier this summer, Sean greeted attendees with a cheerful smile and began moving his body to music almost immediately after entering the room, creating a palpable energy that filled the studio. It's little wonder WAC members clamor for the limited space available in his classes. For complete schedule, see page 44. Sean Cormack leads the WAC's new barre classes. reminding the class that bikini season is coming so we don't cheat on our reps." For Sean, WAC members are just as impressive. "Everyone here is so dedicated," he says. "It's neat to see people getting committed to the format and seeing results." "Sean's infectious energy and impeccable rhythm … make getting up that much easier," says member Carlie Meader, who often attends barre at 6 am. "He is a perfect blend of fun and discipline," adds Shannon Hull, another devotee. "He helps with form and posture while gently SEPTEMBER 2012 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | 17 LUKE RUTAN

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