Jay Shah
DevOps\Aerospace Engineer & Journalist
Hello, fitness enthusiasts and movement lovers! 🌟 Ready to shake up your summer routine with something completely unique, energizing, and oh-so-Canadian/Kenyan? Well, you’re in for a treat!
After taking a short personal break to soak up some of Vancouver‘s stunning summer vibes (because let’s be honest, who can resist?), I’m thrilled to be back and ready to dive into another exciting adventure in Jay’s vibrant outdoor scene. Whether you’ve been lounging by the beach (KITS ftw..) or hiking the local trails (East Hasting’s fun..), it’s time to switch gears and bring some fresh energy into your routine. I’m talking about a fitness experience that’s not just about working out, but about celebrating movement, culture, and community—right here in the heart of our beautiful city.
Get ready to groove, move, and connect with a new kind of workout that’s as invigorating as it is inspiring. Stay tuned, because this is one summer series you won’t want to miss!
As someone who originally hails from Kenya, I’m particularly thrilled to share this unique experience with you—a fitness event inspired by the rhythmic and dynamic essence of African culture, right here in the heart of this bustling metropolis! Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun way to get moving this summer, the
“MSINGI Afro Movement Summer Series”
taking place at Canada Place is where you’ll want to be. Led by the dynamic and inspiring Ingrid Knight-Cohee, Director of Fitness Classes at Fitness World, this series is bringing a whole new level of fitness and fun to Vancouver.
And the best part? It’s completely
FREE!
Yes, you read that right! Every Tuesday evening, from July 16th to August 27th, Canada Place transforms into an open-air fitness haven where the beats are soulful, the movements are primal, and the vibe is pure, unadulterated joy. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness buff or someone just looking for a fun way to stay active, this is designed to welcome everyone with open arms and a whole lot of rhythm.
Now, before we dive into the details of what makes this class so special, let’s take a moment to appreciate the setting.
Canada Place, with its breathtaking views and iconic architecture, is a partner in this fitness journey. The fresh air, the calming sound of the water, and the sight of the sun (soak this up this while it lasts RainCouverites…) dipping below the horizon all contribute to an atmosphere that makes working out feel less like a chore and more like a celebration of life.
The Heart of Msingi
Created by Ingrid Knight-Cohee, a fitness visionary with roots in international fitness, the idea began percolating during the pandemic—a time when many of us were seeking new ways to connect with our bodies and our communities. For Ingrid, it was a time of reflection and innovation, leading her to draw from her rich experiences and cultural influences.
A powerhouse in the fitness world, known for her ability to inspire and lead with passion. A former US National Team member in Rhythmic Gymnastics, she’s turned her love for competitive sports into a mission to help others live their best lives. Whether she’s teaching a class, coaching a client, or leading her team at Fitness World Canada, Ingrid speaks from the heart, always pushing people to discover their potential and embrace a journey toward health and wellness.
As the Director of Fitness Classes at Fitness World Canada, Ingrid manages a team of 150 instructors, crafting innovative fitness experiences for 80,000 members across 16 locations. With a solid academic background in Human Kinetics and Exercise & Health Psychology, she’s not just talking the talk—she’s walking the walk. Her latest creation, MSINGI™ – Elemental Movement, combines functional strength with primal mobility, all to the beat of Afro rhythms. It’s more than just a workout; it’s about getting people moving and building healthier communities.
“During the lockdown, I found myself thinking about how the fitness industry is great at keeping fit people fit but hasn’t always been successful in reaching non-exercisers or those who feel intimidated by traditional fitness settings,” Ingrid explained.
This realization sparked the idea for a class that would be more inclusive, welcoming, and rooted in the fundamentals of fitness while also being driven by the power of music.
“I aim to teach to the back row,”
Ingrid shared, emphasizing her commitment to making every participant feel included and successful.
Having spent time in Nairobi (MY HOMETOWN!), Ingrid infused this experience with the spirit and energy of African dance and mobility exercises, creating something truly special that resonates with her global experiences.
In a recent interview, she shared how her time in Kenya, inspired by the animals and landscapes of Maasai Mara in east Africa (a selection of my personal escapades into our natural reserves back in Nairobi below!) led her to create this unique blend of fitness.
“Between ages ten and thirteen, I had the good fortune to live in Nairobi, Kenya… those were profound years and impactful experiences,” she recalled.
She wanted to capture that essence in a class that would not only build physical strength but also bring people together through the universal language of music and movement.
Her journey into fitness was unconventional. She started as an elite rhythmic gymnast, a discipline that required a high level of endurance. However, her coach suggested she take up running to improve her stamina—a suggestion that didn’t excite her until she stumbled upon a step class at a local fitness studio.
“I peaked in and thought, ‘Wow, that looks kind of fun,’” Ingrid recalled.
That moment was a turning point. Six months later, she was certified and teaching her own classes, having discovered a passion for group fitness that has driven her ever since.
“Options, options, options!”
she says with a smile, highlighting how MSINGI offers modifications to suit all levels of fitness. This is about moving together, enjoying the process, and finding strength in community—a theme that also ran deep in the GAME Project I covered recently, where art and movement came together to create a collective experience.
“That’s exactly what we’re doing—bringing people together through movement, through music, and through a shared experience that uplifts everyone involved.“
Groove to the Rhythm
So, what exactly sets this apart from other fitness classes?
It’s an immersive experience that connects you with a deeper rhythm, both physically and culturally. A class that’s all about building core strength while fostering a sense of community. Drawing on the vibrant cultural heritage of Africa.
The result was MSINGI, a fitness class that embodies the spirit of Africa in every move. The word MSINGI itself is Swahili for “foundation” or “elemental,” perfectly capturing the essence of what Ingrid aims to achieve with this class
“MSINGI is more than just a fitness class; it’s about building connections—both with yourself and others—through movement.”
Those words struck a chord with me, much like how the Bach festival earlier this summer emphasized the beauty of merging tradition with innovation; timeless compositions were reimagined to bridge classical and global musical traditions, similarly this reminds us to find joy in the journey of fitness, blending the rich heritage of African rhythms with modern exercise techniques. It’s a reminder that whether we’re moving to the beats of Afrobeats or the melodies of Bach, the essence lies in the seamless fusion of the old and new, making the experience both enriching and enjoyable.
EARTH
WIND
FIRE
The class is designed around these elements, with movements that ground participants (Earth), encourage fluidity (Wind), and ignite energy (Fire).
“The elemental components for me made me think about Earth, Wind, and Fire,” she said, referencing the natural elements that became central to the structure of MSINGI.
It merges functional fitness with the infectious energy of Afro beats. The functional movements are designed to improve your strength, flexibility, and mobility, but they also carry a deeper significance. Each movement is a reflection of the cultural heritage that she has infused into the class, from the grounding, stabilizing exercises that connect you to the Earth, to the fluid, flowing motions that mimic the wind, and the fiery, intense bursts of energy that represent the fire within; resulting in a workout that’s both revitalizing and empowering. As she so eloquently puts it ,
“Movement equals happiness… and that can leak out into your community”
highlighting how the physical benefits of the class extend far beyond the workout itself; from the carefully curated playlist of Afrobeat rhythms that energize each session to the thoughtful modifications that ensure every participant, regardless of fitness level, can enjoy and benefit from the class.
What’s more, the setting of these classes at Canada Place’s North Point amplifies the experience. With the stunning waterfront views of Vancouver as the backdrop, participants are not just working out—they’re engaging with their environment in a unique and invigorating way. The natural beauty of the west coast that we’ve been blessed with, mirrors the organic and elemental movements of the class, creating a seamless blend of nature and exercise that’s both refreshing and grounding.
Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts
The connections between my past what I just experienced highlight the beauty and power of cultural expression in all its forms. Whether through food, dance, or fitness, these experiences allow us to celebrate our heritage, honor our roots, and connect with others in meaningful ways. As I continue to explore these themes in my blog, I am reminded of the profound impact that our cultural traditions can have on our lives, both personally and collectively.
MOMBASA
RAHA!
I can’t help but draw profound connections to other moments in my life where my Kenyan heritage and the vibrant culture of East Africa have shaped my perspective, allowing me to explore and celebrate my roots in different ways.
In one of my previous posts; The African Dream: A Celebration of Resilience and Hope, I delved into the power of storytelling and dance in conveying the deep emotions and resilience of the African spirit and much like the performers in that production conveys powerful messages of hope and perseverance, this class offers a similar fusion of movement and meaning, something deeper—our history, our culture, and our identity.
The rhythmic beats that guide the movements also kind of kind of reminded me of the energy and spirit I felt watching Aryo’s & Pegah during GAME PROJECT: An Immersive Urban Wander. As Pegah’s solitary stroll through Vancouver turned the city into a canvas of introspection and connection, revealing hidden layers of the urban landscape and the audience participating; this experience turns a simple fitness class into a powerful exploration of African culture and its impact on the individual by unearthing the foundational rhythms and spirit of a continent emphasizing the strength and grace that comes from moving in harmony with centuries-old traditions.
And of course, I cannot reminisce without mentioning my culinary journey at Cayenne Bistro! Just as this foodie gem brought the flavors of East Africa to Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene, both experiences are rich with the essence of my heritage. In the same way that a well-prepared dish at this restaurant transported me back to the bustling markets and vibrant kitchens of East Africa, the dynamic movements will surely reconnect you to the primal energy and vitality of your ancestors. Each bite, each step, becomes a celebration of where we come from and a testament to how those roots continue to nourish and sustain us, no matter how far we roam.
Whether through the comforting warmth of a home inspired-cooked meal or the invigorating pulse of an Afrobeat workout, we find ways to honor our heritage while sharing its beauty and strength with the world.
I encourage you all to join me on this journey of cultural discovery, whether by attending a MSINGI class, exploring the flavors of Cayenne Bistro, or reflecting on the stories of resilience and hope that are so deeply ingrained in our African heritage. Through these experiences, we can not only stay connected to our past but also build a stronger, more vibrant community here in Vancouver.
For more updates and to follow my adventures, connect with me on
Let’s keep the conversation going and share our love for cultural festivals and community events!
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2 responses to ““Afro Beats and Waterfront Feats: MSINGI Brings the Rhythm to Vancouver””
[…] Ingrid’s Msingi brought to Vancouver’s waterfront with her free flowing performances (yes I would consider the combination of Afrobeats, her […]
[…] explored my country’s influences in Vancouver whether it be through the high energy Msingi Fitness Movement last summer—a fitness movement that unites African beats with holistic well-being; to […]