Samantha
What made you start pole dance classes?
I decided to sign myself up for a beginner’s class with a friend almost 2 years ago, as we were both curious about trying something new and wanted to find a fun and active way to spend time together.
What motivates you to keep coming to classes at Studio Verve®?
In the past I’ve really struggled to find consistency with my exercise, so it’s really nice to have discovered something that I enjoy so much and that keeps me fit at the same time.
What changes have you noticed in your life since you started pole dancing?
Pole is a great focus for me outside of a pretty demanding job, so it’s been really great to use it as a work-life balance tool, and to have time during the week where I can just concentrate on something that I enjoy.
How does pole dancing make you feel about yourself?
I’ve always been quite a confident person, and whilst pole has definitely improved that, I find the most rewarding part is overcoming doubts I have about my own abilities to conquer certain moves that I see other people doing and think to myself, “I’ll never be good enough to do that!”
What changes have family and friends noticed in you/your appearance since you started pole?
I’ve never been a very athletic person, so when I show my friends and family videos of the combos I’ve learnt in pole, there are always shocked comments about how graceful, strong and coordinated I look. I take it as a compliment, even if it implies I’m not like that in real life!
What is your next goal for pole?
I’m trying to focus on my flexibility this term, and whilst I know the splits are still a fair way off for me, I’m working on it slowly! So my goal is to spend a bit more of my free time practicing and stretching so that I’ll be able to nail the moves that require more flexibility in the advanced levels.
How long can you see yourself pole dancing for?
As long as my body will allow me!
What is your favourite thing about Studio Verve®?
I love that it’s focused on fitness and has a really inclusive and friendly atmosphere – I’m always genuinely thrilled when one of my classmates reaches a goal and I’m there to see it, and it’s really great to get the same encouragement from them when I’m struggling with something.
What are your favourite things about pole dancing?
I love that it’s an all-body workout, and that you can really see changes and improvements quickly. It’s very rewarding to see the work pay off!
What is the most challenging thing about pole dancing?
It can be painful at times (learning the inside leg is a period in my life I won’t easily forget …) and there are a lot of scary moves, so overcoming the pain and the fear can sometimes be a challenge when you’re first learning something.
Who do you think would benefit from pole dancing?
I’m a strong believer that anyone can benefit from pole dancing! When I have friends who are inquisitive about it but worried they’re not fit enough or a certain size, I’m quick to tell them that there are no limitations when it comes to pole, and that the most unlikely people can be amazingly skilled pole dancers.