Aerobics Instructor Kru Took: The First Dance Teacher of Suan Lum Park Opens Up About Her 28-Year Journey
Kru Took has taught aerobics at Suan Lum Park for 28 years, blending multiple dance styles to create energetic classes that attract people of all ages seeking fun and fitness in the revitalized public space.
Aerobics fever at Suan Lum Park has reached new heights as Kru Took (Somruedee Srimark), the park's first dance instructor, opens up about her journey. When she started teaching aerobics at Suan Lum Park at age 20, she was still a first-year university student, but her extensive dance experience—including traditional Thai dance training and years of dance competitions—prepared her well. "I've been teaching here for 28 years now, dancing seven days a week without a break," she explains. Today, she leads classes alongside two other instructors, Kru Maew and Kru Noi.
Kru Took's unique style blends multiple dance genres into her own signature moves. The classes feature 13 songs that vary based on current trends. "I like diverse styles, and I think everyone does too," she says. "I mix them together to create our own identity and moves. When people hear songs they like and do the steps, they get excited—I can hear them cheering."
The park itself has transformed dramatically over the years, becoming brighter and more welcoming with improved landscaping and lighting. This evolution has attracted people of all ages and backgrounds. Seniors, in particular, have embraced the energetic dance style, feeling like they've stepped back into their younger years. "Everyone comes in their own way, wearing whatever they want," Kru Took notes. "People aren't focused on judging each other—they're focused on me, the instructor. It's like we're all joining together, having fun, talking, and some even make new friends here."
The aerobics trend has exploded, drawing both Thai participants and foreign visitors. When asked how the phenomenon started, Kru Took admits she isn't sure, but credits the collective effort of all instructors who share the same goal: bringing happiness and health to their members. "The trend has been wonderful," she reflects. "It's created a fever that's gotten more people exercising and revitalized public parks. Before this, dance culture had really slowed down. I receive messages from people thanking me for bringing dance back."
