NK Studios and Nika Kermani

On the main stretch in downtown Bingen, sits NK Studios, a once working auto body shop turned fitness studio. What began as a Kickstarter, and opened in November of 2020, was the brainchild of owner Nika Kermani. Born and raised in the Gorge, Nika attended Columbia High School and began dancing at the White Salmon Mountain View Grange under Annette Warner. She continued her dance education with the Columbia Academy in Hood River, wanting to learn and focus on Hip Hop dance.

Nika says, starting the Kickstarter was initially wanting to check the pulse on the community to make sure it was something they wanted–they reached the goal she had set in 24 hours. With the help of friends and volunteers, it took three months to flip the old garage into the space it is today. The wall in the entrance to the studio is painted with the names of all who contributed to the Kickstarter.

Upon creating her business model, Nika chose to structure things in a way that feels very intentional–all of her instructors are independent contractors whom she wants to feel a sense of ownership. She considers herself an extension of the people who work here–there is no competition, only collaboration and teamwork. Nika herself teaches dance classes starting at the 5th grade level, while other instructors teach 4-5 year olds.

The Studio centers itself on movement in general, offering not only dance classes, but yoga, tempo and tone, dance fitness, dance education and even breathwork. Classes take place indoors and outdoors–you can drive by on any given day and see dozens of people in the parking lot grooving to the beats! NK Studios also hosts occasional pop-ups, piloting new ideas to see how people respond to them. When asked if she has plans to expand her business, she responds that her only plan is “to continue to focus on being a healthy and consistent business model that is positive and user friendly for all”. NK Studios is available to rent for parties as well, and you can choose to hire an instructor of your choice!

Sign up for the Studio’s newsletter with all the newest information regarding upcoming classes and events!