Natasha Benitez

Natasha “Coco” Benitez attended her first spin class in 2009 with her mom and was hooked instantly!  A fantastic love of music, a background in teaching and passion for spin, led Coco to become an instructor.  She graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Government/History degree, joined Teach for America to move to D.C and teach 10th grade World History at Anacostia High School.  Full time teaching, attending grad school at American University, lack of sleep, and poor eating was an unhealthy combination and a daily routine.  Coco’s quest for a healthy and active lifestyle began the summer of 2007 after changing her eating habits and beginning a consistent exercise routine.   With increased energy levels and noticeable weight loss, she brought her new passion for exercise to her students by creating the “Scholarly Fit Club.”   In 2012, Coco became a certified Mad Dogg instructor and began teaching at Waldorf Fitness Center in Maryland and STROGA in DC.    Coco’s love of hip hop, soul, reggae, electronic, pop, rock and jazz all make their flavors into her high energy “Soul Spin,” class.  Spinners are encouraged to jam, have fun, visualize their ride, smile and SWEAT!  Outside of working with high school students in DC and teaching spin, Coco also enjoys running, boot camp, Zumba, traveling, cooking with new recipes, being with her family, vintage shopping, listening to jazz and exploring new restaurants.