In what’s becoming an all-too familiar refrain in my life lately, but if you would have told me a year ago that I’d be enrolled in a pole dancing class and absolutely loving it, I would have laughed in your face.
But, it’s true. Last month, I enrolled in the Level 1 class at one of the newest pole dancing studios in town, Primal Beginnings. Located on SE 49th just off SE Division, the studio is small and welcoming. Prior to enrolling, I must have e-mailed Amy, the studio’s owner and instructor at least three times inquiring about the class. Sure, I’ve taken bellydancing previously, but taking a class where the main prop has the power to make some blush while turning some on or off, it can be a bit intimidating. However, I decided to sign up for one of the inaugural sessions on Wednesday night figuring it was only eight weeks and would be a nice mid-week break.
Walking in, you’re greeted with the smell of a light vanilla scent coming from the candles throughout the space. The space is split in half allowing for meditation, breathing, and stretching on yoga mats in addition to the hardwood floor where the pole is installed.
With only six women in my class, it’s much smaller and more personal than other dance classes I’ve taken around town. We cheer each other on and laugh at ourselves as we learn new moves. The class welcomes women of all shapes and sizes, which definitely took away from the level of intimidation and fear I had prior to the first class. Plus, there’s the presence of Amy, who is warm, caring, and supportive.
Personally, taking this class was not about learning how to be a stripper at one of Portland’s many venues. Instead, it’s about learning to appreciate my body and being happy with being the fat chick that I am at this time.
I’m only halfway through the Level 1 class – and plan to sign up for Level 2 – and find myself practicing moves at home in my living room. (Without a pole.) I’ve also started listening to songs and putting them through a filter of, “Hmm, could I dance to this?”
The coming weeks should be exciting as we freestyle more to find our own dance styles while trying out different music. And then there’s the recital. It will be my first recital in many, many years, yet it doesn’t make me nervous. I’ll just take a deep breath and begin my dance.
Is this class for everyone? Probably not, but if you’re looking for not only a different form of exercise that isn’t a treadmill, but also a way to feel comfortable in your body, then perhaps this is the place for you.
{ 2 comments }
I am in awe of the ways you continue to put yourself out there trying new and interesting things!
Thanks! If nothing else, it gets me off the sofa for a while.
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