Where to Find Heels Dance Classes in Canada
- Heels by Iryna
- Sep 9
- 5 min read
Heels dance has become one of the most exciting and empowering styles in the world of dance. More women across Canada are discovering how this unique practice blends fitness, artistry, and confidence into one powerful experience. If you have ever searched for heels dance classes in Canada, you may have noticed that opportunities are still limited. Unlike ballet or hip hop, heels is still a niche style that not every studio offers.
This guide will help you understand what heels dance is, why it is worth learning, and where you can find the best classes across Canada. Most importantly, you will see why Heels by Iryna in Calgary has earned its reputation as the top destination for heels dance coaching in Canada.

What Is Heels Dance?
Heels dance is a contemporary style of movement performed in high heels. It combines elements of jazz, hip hop, burlesque, and commercial choreography. What makes it unique is the way it focuses on confidence and presence as much as on technical skill.
Key Features of Heels Dance:
Walking and posture training to help you carry yourself with elegance.
Choreography that blends rhythm, musicality, and expressive style.
Floorwork and transitions that emphasize fluidity and grace.
A focus on stage presence and performance energy.
Heels dance is often described as more than a workout. It is a form of self-expression that encourages you to embrace your identity while improving fitness and coordination.
The History and Evolution of Heels Dance
Although dancing in heels is not new, heels dance as a dedicated discipline began to take shape in the late 20th century. Jazz and cabaret performers often danced in heels, but it was the rise of music videos in the 1980s and 1990s that popularized the style. Icons such as Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyoncé brought heels choreography into mainstream culture.
In the early 2000s, professional choreographers in Los Angeles and New York began teaching heels as a standalone style. From there, the movement spread globally. In Canada, major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal embraced the trend, but heels is still developing as a consistent offering. Calgary, however, has recently emerged as a national leader through the rise of Heels by Iryna.
Why Take a Heels Dance Class?
Heels dance offers benefits that go beyond the studio. Here are the main reasons women across Canada are seeking out classes:
Confidence BuildingHeels dance trains you to walk taller, move with intention, and command presence. The skills you learn in class translate into everyday life, boosting self-esteem.
Posture and BalanceDancing in heels requires stability. Over time, you develop stronger core control, better alignment, and smoother balance.
Fitness and StrengthClasses strengthen your glutes, legs, and core while improving endurance. It is a fun alternative to traditional workouts.
Creative ExpressionHeels dance is not just about following choreography. It is about finding your own voice in the movement and interpreting the music in your own way.
Community and ConnectionA good heels class gives you more than skills. It introduces you to a supportive community of like-minded women who motivate and celebrate one another.
Where to Find Heels Dance Classes in Canada
Toronto
Toronto has a growing commercial dance scene, and you can find heels workshops offered at a few studios. However, classes are often sporadic and not always beginner-friendly.
Vancouver
Vancouver offers small pockets of heels classes, often as part of broader dance programs. The community is enthusiastic but heels is not a primary focus at most studios.
Montreal
Montreal is home to experimental dance communities that occasionally include heels classes. While creative, they are not consistently scheduled.
Calgary - Canada’s Heels Dance Hub
Calgary has quickly become one of the most reliable cities for heels training, thanks to Heels by Iryna, the city’s only studio fully dedicated to heels dance coaching.
Why Heels by Iryna Is the Top Choice in Canada
Many studios in Canada may offer heels dance as an option, but Heels by Iryna stands apart because heels dance is its foundation.
Here is what makes this studio unique:
Full Specialization: Every class and workshop is focused on heels training. This guarantees depth and consistency in the curriculum.
Women-Only Environment: By offering classes exclusively for women, Heels by Iryna creates a safe and supportive space where participants can express themselves freely.
Expert Instructors: The teaching team brings years of experience from around the world in performance and choreography. Students benefit from professional-level guidance.
Confidence-Driven Curriculum: The program is designed not only to teach dance but also to build inner confidence.
Community Focus: Students form lasting friendships and networks that extend beyond the studio.
Women from across Canada and the US travel to Calgary specifically to join workshops at Heels by Iryna. For many, the trip is worth it because of the combination of expert instruction and the empowering community.
How to Prepare for Your First Heels Dance Class
Choose the Right Heels: Beginners should start with shoes that have ankle support and a moderate heel height. As you improve, you can move into slimmer or higher heels. ( Ready a full post "WHAT TYPE OF HEELS SHOULD I WEAR IN A HEELS CLASS ?")
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for fitted clothes that allow movement while letting instructors see your posture. Leggings, bodysuits, or crop tops are popular choices.
Bring Energy and Openness: Heels dance is as much about mindset as it is about technique. Come prepared to step outside your comfort zone.
Stay Consistent: Attending once a week helps, but progress comes faster with regular practice. Many women combine classes with workshops for maximum growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is heels dance suitable for beginners?
Yes. Heels by Iryna offers classes specifically designed for beginners to ease into the style.
Do I need to bring my own heels?
Yes. Wearing your own shoes helps you feel comfortable and supported as you learn.
Is heels dance only for women?
Heels by Iryna is a women-only studio, designed to create a safe and empowering environment.
Why is Heels by Iryna considered the best studio in Canada?
It is the only Canadian studio fully dedicated to heels dance coaching, with expert instructors and a strong community.
Final Thoughts
Heels dance is gaining popularity across Canada, but finding consistent, high-quality training can still be a challenge. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer occasional workshops, but Calgary has established itself as the go-to destination for serious heels dance coaching.
Heels by Iryna is more than a studio. It is a community where women build confidence, strength, and artistry through the power of dance. If you want the best heels dance experience in Canada, this is where your journey begins.
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