Early Life
Sonia Bakshi spent her childhood moving across different cities in India because of her father’s profession. Growing up in places such as Durgapur, Srinagar, Panchkula, Kolkata, and New Delhi exposed her to Diverse cultures and experiences from an early age. These constant transitions helped shape her adaptability, resilience, and confidence.
During her academic years, Sonia explored different career aspirations before finding her path. She initially considered pursuing engineering but later shifted her focus to finance and completed her CFA qualification. She began her Professional journey in the corporate sector, where she worked for a year before choosing to step away after the birth of her daughter.
Career
After becoming a mother, Sonia dedicated her time to raising her daughter. Once her daughter grew older, Sonia wanted to restart her professional life while maintaining a healthy balance between career and family.
During this phase, her interactions with women around her made her realize that many women were seeking more than physical fitness. They were looking for confidence, emotional strength, motivation, and a supportive environment where they could feel comfortable and empowered. This realization inspired Sonia to move toward the fitness industry.
She earned professional fitness certifications and began conducting aerobics, Pilates, and weight training classes in 2002. Sonia initially started a gym and aerobics centre, but over time she decided to focus entirely on aerobics and group fitness sessions. Her energetic and engaging style helped her build a loyal community of women who connected with her approach to health and wellness.
At a time when very few women were involved in the fitness business, Sonia’s journey was considered unconventional. In the early years, she personally arranged transportation and pick and drop facilities for women attending her classes to ensure they felt safe and comfortable.
Her vision eventually evolved into Dance to Fitness, a fitness brand that has grown into a network of 40 franchises. Through this platform, Sonia has positively impacted thousands of women by helping them improve not only their physical fitness but also their mental and emotional well being.
Personal Life
Sonia Bakshi believes strongly in balancing professional ambitions with family values. Her transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was deeply influenced by motherhood and her desire to create meaningful change in the lives of women.
She has often spoken about how every stage of her life contributed to her personal growth and eventually led her to discover her true purpose. Sonia takes pride in helping women feel confident, independent, and comfortable in their own skin.
Achievements & Recognition
Sonia Bakshi is recognized as an entrepreneur, fitness trainer, and mentor who has inspired thousands of women through her work.
Some of her notable achievements include:
- Founder of Dance to Fitness, a fitness brand with 40 franchises
- Conducting aerobics, Pilates, and weight training sessions since 2002
- Recognized and awarded by organizations such as CISF and FICCI
- Honoured by several MBA institutes for her entrepreneurial journey
- Contributor to leading publications including The Times of India, Hindustan Times, and Deccan Chronicle
- Built a strong and loyal fitness community, with many members training with her for over a decade
External Links
- Dance to Fitness Official Platform
- Articles and features in The Times of India, Hindustan Times, and Deccan Chronicle
- Recognition and award features by CISF and FICCI
