Business Spotlight: M. Nicholson Hip Hop Fitness
Gahanna Business Spotlight
If you’re a fan of a great dance workout and hip-hop culture in Central Ohio, you’ve probably heard of M. Nicholson Hip Hop Fitness. We caught up with owner Michael (Mike) Nicholson—to learn more about his business in Gahanna and how he became such a local favorite with his students.
Tell us about your business and how it came about?
I’m originally from Brooklyn, New York. I moved to Ohio to attend Ohio Wesleyan University. I am passionate about helping people, hip-hop culture, art, and fitness. I wanted to do something for the community and myself to address being unhealthy and unfit. I figured that combining all of the things that I was passionate about was how to do this. That’s how M. Nicholson Hip Hop Fitness was born right here in Gahanna, Ohio.
As a dancer, I knew the workout you can get from dancing. I figured that dance was the best way to get people in shape by doing something that most enjoy doing or want to learn to do, such as dance. I combined classic and modern-day hip hop moves with calisthenics and came up with our dance fitness format, the first of its kind in central Ohio. I began to offere classes at a spot on Mill St. and invited folks from Gahanna and surrounding areas to come out. In the first class that I had, five people show up and sign up; a few years later, we had over 6,000+ all around Columbus, Ohio, in the program. The M. Nicholson Hip-Hop Fitness program became known for dance fitness and a fun-loving family that holds our family members
accountable to their commitment to being and staying fit and healthy.
What would people be surprised to learn about you & your business?
That I am a graphic designer/artist by initial trade and I do all of my graphic design, videos, and photography.
How long have you been at your current Gahanna location?
I have been doing this for 12 years in Gahanna.
What differentiates you from your competitors?
We’re all-around genuine. You have a founder and instructor from the city that birthed hip hop, gifted and talented instructors, and you learn how to dance. You get the best dance fitness workout and the opportunity to make lifelong friends with other students.
What do you like about doing business in the Gahanna area?
I love that Gahanna feels like a cozy city and is accessible from other parts of Central Ohio
Where can people learn more about your business?
https://www.facebook.com/HipHopFitness
https://www.instagram.com/phlex06
