Aerobic dance instructor creates energized musical workout

Friday, October 5, 2007 | 3:10 p.m. CDT
Aerobics instructor Vicki Pinkel leads a choreographed routine in her "Pinkel's Ladies" class on Sept. 26 at Columbia's Activity and Recreation Center. She makes her high-energy class inviting and fun by choreographing dance routines to popular oldies, country and show tunes.

Vicki Pinkel, 54, is the instructor of an aerobic dance class called “Pinkel’s Ladies” at the Activity and Recreation Center in Columbia. The class choreographs dances to oldies, show tunes and country music and meets three times a week. She has been teaching since 1980.

What are the benefits of your class?

It’s more fun, the time goes faster, and I change the music all the time. Plus, I encourage it to be a social atmosphere. It makes people want to come back because they’ve made friends.

Is it true that you have a following?

Yes, Angie Herbold, Jan Degginger, and Cyndy Meyer are some of my originals. Every Friday anyone that wants to go to lunch meets at the Bread Basket. I had a holiday party at my house, and sometimes we all go to movies together.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a Broadway star. I love to sing and dance!

What is your favorite way to work out?

This class, but I also walk on the three days a week that I don’t teach. I play tennis and volleyball. I would exercise all the time if I could, I just don’t have the time or the energy for that.

Your favorite aerobics song?

“Do You Love Me,” by the Contours.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I like to read. I read a lot of James Patterson, any mysteries. And I love to play with my grandkids. I used to fly home to Ohio every month, but now they live here.

Do you have a favorite place to eat in Columbia?

The Bread Basket. I get a BLT and a cup of chicken noodle.

Has your husband (MU football coach Gary Pinkel) sent any players to your class?

No. It’s really not geared to men because it’s very dancy, and most men aren’t comfortable with that kind of workout. The men who come to my class have a hard time keeping up.

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