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There may be only one rule when taking a class at the Body Moves fitness center in Fort Washington: Keep moving, and don't stop.

Using a blend of classes that offer dance, fitness and martial arts, Body Moves' owners said they have been able to hold their own and grow their business during the economic downturn. Toni and Richard Baptiste are now are eyeing to expand their youth-oriented classes to older adults, joining myriad fitness services in the community geared toward seniors.

The Baptistes said they designed classes to keep the body moving throughout the whole session — a formula that has become a hit with the community, with dance classes incorporating a range of genres, such as jazz and hip-hop.

The two originally teamed with another couple to open a dance studio in Fort Washington in 2002, but left the business about three years later due to management differences.

Despite the setback, Toni Baptiste was still itching to open her own studio that encompasses fitness and dance.

"People are not moving; they're sedentary. Older people are not doing anything," she said. "I wanted to provide a place where people could come and enjoy movement."

The two eventually settled on a location in Olde Forte Village Shopping Center and opened Body Moves in 2005. Richard Baptiste said they spent about $500,000 to renovate an old grocery store storage facility into an 8,000-square-foot center with five dance studios offering classes in dance, gymnastics, martial arts, as well as an afterschool program.

So far, business has remained steady, Richard Baptiste said. Despite the recession, revenues for Body Moves have increased more than 28 percent in the last year, and are approaching $400,000, he said.

"There have been a lot of come-to-Jesus moments," he said. "We had everything on the line — our home, our retirement, our son's education."

Many residents along Indian Head Highway/Route 210 said they welcomed a center that mixes fitness, dance and day care.

Carol Miller, 40, of Accokeek said she discovered Body Moves through a friend in 2006 and joined the "Mommy and me" dance class with her 2-year-old daughter. Miller, who danced as a teen, said she joined the modern dance class and developed close friendships with other class members.

"I think they are great. They gave me a life. I have my day once a week," she said. "Some of the things they do regarding [day care] and prices would be hard to find [elsewhere]."

Having found success with youth, the Baptistes said they are expanding their programs to include older adults.

"The response has been good. People have been asking about the senior program," said Toni Baptiste. "What we have learned is that with the economic situation, adults are not doing as much."

Theresa Harris, community director at the YMCA in Fort Washington, said that in addition to fitness classes offered at the YMCA for older adults, Fort Washington's Harmony Hall Regional Center offers low-cost fitness and dance classes for older adults.

"There is not a dire need out there [for adult programs]," she said. "Seniors become very complacent — you have to be unique in what you offer."

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Raphael Talisman/The Gazette

Katiera Sharp (front), 11, of Clinton dances with (from left) Jade Mason, 12, of Fort Washington; Jessica Ricks, 13, of Fort Washington; and Briana Benton, 17, of Clinton during pre-pointe class Nov. 9 at Body Moves in Fort Washington.