There are a lot of great benefits to competing, but there are also a lot of barriers that prevent people from having that experience or having a good experience. Let’s explore just a few of the common barriers that exist in the world of competitive pole and aerial. 12. Lack of representation. When you don’t […]
When you can’t do what you want to do. Focus on what you can do. After suffering countless setbacks, one of the biggest things that’s helped me each time I’ve had to start over is FOCUSING. There are definitely times where you’re gonna feel the feels….like ALL of them. It a complete mix of physical, […]
Starting over sucks. But you know what sucks more than starting over? Having to start over…again… And again… And yet, again… It’s very much a roller coaster ride and can feel like a lonely time in your life. It’s easy to be overwhelmed with feelings and emotions. A mixture of thankfulness and frustration. Thankful because […]
Thinking about competing in pole/aerial but feeling unsure? The best time to start preparing is NOW! And the best way to start is by learning the rules of that competition and getting answers to all of your burning questions. So before you jump into creating a routine (although I’m sure you’ve got dozens of exciting […]
Competing can be an exciting and nerve wracking experience. The good news is, you don’t have to dive into the deep in. Start with smaller, less-pressured events and slowly work your way up to the competition stage. There are plenty of ways to dip your toe in the water before complete submerging and doing it […]
Having an infusion of dance styles will not only make you stand out on stage with a memorable performance, for many competitions it can also be worth some sweet sweet bonus points. But WHAT are all of the dance styles in existence and do you know how to recognize (or better yet, perform) them? Let’s […]
One of the best tools at your disposal as a developing artist-athlete is competing (and performing in general). Even if competing isn’t your jam, these three things still apply if you are just interested in performing in shows or one day professionally. Going through the process of developing, fine tuning and debuting a stage performance […]
Ashley here! The last two years have been full of surgeries and healing, but I’m finally out of pain and feeling more like me! Prioritizing my body and healing put so much on hold, BUT I’m back! So you’ll be seeing me pop up in your feed a lot more and I hope that you’ll […]
One of the conversations I find myself having with all too often with students is grounded in this randomized expectation and the resulting disappointment in movement abilities. It seems with all of the #inspo and #goals we consume via tv/movies and social media that we’ve somehow created these mythical standards dictating what we should be […]
This is probably my favorite and most asked questions. If you’ve ever trained with me or even just been around me, then you’ve probably heard me ask this…A LOT. I ask it so much I put it on a t-shirt and then made it into a sticker! If you have a shirt already, send me […]
Not all tricks were made for everyBODY and you know what, that’s okay! One of the things I teach in my everyBODY training is that tricks discriminate. The truth is that every trick we are inspired to try, that we double tap <3, that we save to our wishlist and that we ask our instructors […]
Getting out of a non-compete agreement can be challenging, but there are several approaches you might consider: It’s important to handle this situation carefully to avoid potential legal repercussions. Consulting with a legal professional will provide you with the best advice for your particular circumstances. *Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general […]
Welcome to this long overdue TedPoleTalk. This is just a quickie to introduce the main course which will be dropping later today. For those that don’t know, non-competes have long been a thorn to many in our industry and have led to some really unfortunate things including: – messy separations – loss of amazing instructors […]
Instructors listen up! Yes teaching pole and aerial can be fun, but it is still WORK. I cannot tell you how many amazing instructors and students I’ve seen lost to this industry because they started teaching too soon, cut their journeys short, got burnt out, had a preventable injury, got taken advantage of or treated […]
Instructors: you are a brand. Even if you work at a studio, YOU ARE A BRAND. And in reality, you are working for the students, yourself and the studio. Regardless of what they say and require you pay for in money/time, studios don’t own:– your mind– your time– your talent– your image– your likeness– your […]
1. Hardware Focused. Unfortunately, not everyone can win. It’s important that athletes (and coaches) have goals and milestones outside of medals, trophies and podiums. Those things are nice, but they do not determine your success, effort or value. 2. Rules are not understood. Athletes (and coaches) do not read and/or fully understand the rules. Unnecessary […]
I am beyond thrilled to announce that I’m back teaching and have a great summer lineup in the works. I’m kicking off my return with a few trainings I’d love to see you at: After some time away to focus on my recovery and healing, I feel recharged and excited to embark on this incredible […]
When I started the idea and teaching principles behind everyBODY it was because I had experienced and adapted to pole/aerial from the physical sense of so many different body types. It was my own struggles with learning and relearning movement at each shape and size that brought into focus just how important and necessary this […]
I am excited to announce the launch of my first all access video library: FlexyFit Online. I wanted to create something that was accessible to everyBODY and inclusive of all shapes, sizes, abilities and level. Click that play button to learn more about FlexyFit Online and how to get the best results from this online movement […]
Pole & Aerial Competitions got you feeling like this?!? You aren’t alone. Having a knowledgeable coach is a game changer. A great coach: – knows and understands the rules – can help you build a level and movement appropriate routine – helps you stay motivated and accountable – keeps you on schedule – gives you […]
Say it with me: “I’m not broken. I’m just under reconstruction.” When you are dealing with an injury or feelings of body dissatisfaction, it’s easy to get stuck in the trap of equating and/or limiting your value to what you see (or don’t see) and what you can or are unable to do. You are […]
Between life and health issues, I’ve had to reboot my pole/aerial career so many times that I’ve become a certified #ProfessionalBeginner. Through all of the starts and restarts, I’ve mastered the art of starting over and I’m learning to embrace it. I’ll be real though, starting over isn’t easy and honestly sometimes it down right f*cking […]
Often it’s thought that freestyles (or any dance really) has to be fancy, hard and full of tricks. However that couldn’t be further from the truth. Less can be more in the most beautiful way. Three things to help free your freestyle 1️⃣ Focus on finding comfort and control of your movement. 2️⃣ Explore and […]
Dancers, like anyone else, have diverse preferences and interests. However, there are several things that many dancers tend to enjoy or appreciate: Remember that individual preferences vary, so it’s always a good idea to consider the specific tastes and needs of the dancer you’re buying for.
❤️🩹4 Days post-op! There’s a lot about my days that’s different, but there’s also a lot about my days that’s the same. I am working on being thankful for what my body can still do as I heal and get back to my normal. And despite my limitations, my Ashlete Toni was able to still […]
Shoutout to all of the birthday book love I received. My heart is so full and my mind is about to be even fuller. While I posted this picture as a thank you to my gifters and to give your scrolling finger a rest, what this post really represents is REST and SELF CARE. You […]
Time, like your attention is a precious commodity. Use it wisely. 🫵🏾 How’s your time management?
I rant because we can do better. It’s important to look at what you teach, how you teach and managing expectations. Short on time? Skip the video and screenshot these 3 takeaways 👇🏽 👆🏽Beginner isn’t always “Beginner”. Regardless of what a class is called or marketed as or what hashtags label moves as, most of […]
Ashley here! My blogging and social shares have been hella spotty over the past couple of years. Besides being ridiculously busy, I prefer living life more than sharing it. BUT I have so many incredible things in the pipeline that I’m excited to share. So you’ll be seeing me pop up in your feed more […]
Slay the Stage is an independently produced show created to give the DFW pole and aerial community a united outlet to showcase their passion and talent while building performance experience. We got our start as a way to help DFW pole competitors practice for PSO and get rid of performance anxiety and jitters. Little did […]
When I started pole 12 years ago I never imagined that it would lead me to where I am now. I feel so lucky to be out of Corporate America and growing in the Pole, Aerial and Circus Industry. Everyday I get to work with incredible people, helping them master their movement, bodies and businesses. […]
I’ve you’ve tuned into the last few blog posts, you may have noticed that I am shifting into a new gear and getting back to the root of my vision and passion. When I started FlexyFit, its as originally about getting my physical flexibility and fitness back on track. However, as I progressed on this journey, […]
g Better 2.0 is about a better way of setting and actually achieving goals that I have been putting into practice over the last few months – and with great success I might add. At its core, it’s about making the required habits and behaviors for accomplishing a goal, manageable and repeatable.
I’ve gotten this message and similar ones (Are you okay? Where you at? Where you been?) consistently over the last year. I feel lucky that people looked forward to seeing me pop up in their inbox and having more regular blog posts, and also bad because I feel like I fell off. Yea, you read […]
WOW, this year literally went by in a flash. Can you believe we are on the edge of 2022? I must say that while the last few years have been full of cray, unpredictability and constant adaptation with everything going on in the world, it’s somehow led to a lot of growth. And I am […]
2022 is literally right around the corner and this is the time where most of us usually start to list out things we’d like to accomplish in the next year. While personally I don’t believe that you have to have a major symbolic moment to start on new goals, I can definitely appreciate the rejuvenating […]
Ahh the holidays! A time full of family, friends, fun and of course food. But what happens when tradition and obligation conflict with your fitness goals and current lifestyle, and threaten your hard earned progress? This is a question that I get often from clients. It’s also a situation that I’ve dealt with myself every […]
Maybe some of you have heard that after 7+ years Freestyle Friday is back! But why does it matter? Why did I bring it back? What does it help, especially for someone like me that has 10+ years of experience under their belt? So glad you asked! Freestyling is an excellent way to monitor your […]
* This post has been updated from its original publish date* When I started FreeStyle Friday I never imagined how quickly it would grow. The support from studios, pros and students has just been incredible. I am thrilled to hear from so many instructors and studios that have been inspired to start a FreeStyle Friday […]
Dust off those dance moves because Freestyle Friday is back! (Insert excited shout here) I’ve actually done a lot of cool shit over the years, quite a bit that I have somehow forgotten about; the Freestyle Friday movement being one of those things. But I am extremely excited to bring this back for myself and […]
Welcome back, welcome back…welcome back! It’s been a while. Almost a year to the day (plus two). Life has been pretty topsy turvy for most of us. And for me, as much as I love writing, I’ve just been caught up with well…life. I realized that trying to post on a regular, pre-scheduled timeline just […]
You’re in a groove, making moves and gains, and then suddenly out of no where. . .OUCH! Injury with a side of setback leaves you sidelined in your life, and throwing a massive wrench in your physical and mental game. I’ve heard and experienced this more times than I can count. If you’re like most […]
I’ll start this off by saying that as a trainer, it might seem weird that I’m writing this. I mean, it does seem a little backward to be sharing alternatives to hiring a trainer, but my goal is to help others improve their health and wellness – and not just collect money. So I decided […]
No, that wasn’t a typo. You read it right. Wait training…it’s a thing. Well, if it’s not, it definitely should be! So I’m officially making it A THING! So let’s get to work on our WAIT TRAINING! If you want to be successful in anything you need to master Wait Training. What is WAIT TRAINING? […]
By now you all know about my transformation. The physical aspect is what you and see, and that’s where it started, but there’s been so much more to it. When I say my entire life has transformed, my entire life is a complete 180 from anything I ever thought it would be AND I FREAKING […]
I interrupt our regularly scheduled program to have a much needed chat about age. There seems to be this ridiculous notion surrounding age that implies that 30 is the end, and that all the things worth doing should and have to be done before 30. Where in the hell did this even come from? Why […]
School is back in session and it’s time to major in YOU-Ology. If you really want to be good at something you have to learn it, study it, practice it, become invested in it. The same is true of yourself. If you want to master your life, you must first master you. When you study […]
Each year I give myself a mantra, theme or area of focus to help me stay grounded and goal focused. “It’s Me Time” was one of those themes. And it was during that time that I really learned to be selfish and to put me first. Though it was one of the most challenging things […]
We are all diligently waiting for the day where we can return to our normal fitness routines. Whether is a gym, small group/personal training, pole/aerial classes, bootcamps, etc. Although I’m sure gyms, studios and class/training structure won’t look anything like it did before the shutdown. There a few things that we should be prepared for […]
Why FLEXYFIT? Well, because flexibility and fitness actually parallel the way we live and handle our lives in so many ways. The right mindset and approach carries over to the rest of your life allowing you to unlock performance in all aspects of life. My journey to regain flexibility and fitness in my body forced me to […]
Do you ever find yourself wondering what the deal is with fitness? Why are some people successful at it and other people…well, not so much? Why is it it that for some people this passion becomes an obsession, and yet for others it feels more like a nagging, crippling desirably avoidable event? How do you […]
I’m inviting you to join my quaranteam so that we can stay fit while staying at home! This is a trying time for all of us, and I want you to know that I’m here to give you social support and love in the form of daily workouts. Together, we’ll give your mind a rest […]
Who wants the secret to reaching your fitness goals and creating that dream body? I’ve got the answer…although most of you won’t like it nor will you do it. However, if there’s at least one person that this post touches and inspires, then it’s worth the time it took to write! Everyday I’m asked about […]
Every year the standard goes up, and the talent and tricks in our industry keeps getting bigger and better. With the growth in popularity of pole/aerials and the incredible talent, many of us may find ourselves being pressured to step it up, refine our skills and make fetch happen. But how do you actually get […]
I get this question often: I have fitness goals, but do I really need to hire a personal trainer? Most people want to think that they could get by without one, but if was that simple wouldn’t you have already achieved your fitness goals? Wouldn’t the rest of the world? And would the personal training […]
So you’ve decided to make that investment in yourself and your fitness goals by hiring a trainer – or maybe you’re still pondering the idea of working with a professional. Regardless of where you are on that decision spectrum, there are a few things you’ll want to think about when considering hiring a personal trainer. […]
It’s that time of year where people are setting goals and trying to figure out the best way to make those goals happen. Health and fitness is most often at the top of many of our lists, and finding the right gym home can make all the difference in your fitness success. So what exactly […]
Flexibility can seem like a fairytale, you know that Disney happy ending that only actually manifests for a select few. And then there’s the barrage of photos and videos we are faced with each day on social media that either leave us feeling hopeless or radically inspired. Either way, for many of us, there seems […]
We’re approaching the end of 2019 and closing out not just a year, but a decade. When you think of 2019, did you grow, did you learn, did you achieve all that you wanted to achieve? What changes and growth have you experienced in this last decade? Are you living your best life yet? If not, then why? Reflecting on these things matters, especially if you’re not where you want to be in life just yet. But I’m here to tell you that the life that you want is closer than you think! And as you think about 2020 and what you want out of it, I want challenge you to GOAL BETTER.
Let’s face it, the thought of stepping up on the stage to compete is both exciting and nerve wracking. I mean, on one hand, who doesn’t want to take your passion (or in some of our cases obsession) to the stage and show of all of the accomplishments you’ve been making in class. On the […]
Working out ain’t easy and if you’re not doing it right your efforts can feel like a waste when you don’t see the results you were hoping and working for. Workout Pros know how to be focused in the gym and make the most of their workouts, so they can attain those bodylicious results. They […]
I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the very first collection of FLEXYFIT & AERIAL ASHLETES Apparel! Most of you know, I’ve been imagining and talking about these for a long time (thank you for your patience). I am so glad that these are finally here and available for purchase. Read on below to […]
I’m excited to share with you a guest blog by Ashlete Aundrea P. This young lady is a joy to be around and is one of the most determined and hardest working people I know. In this entry, she shares with us insight on her incredible journey of weight loss, finding fitness and self-discovery. Let’s […]
Working out is important, but rest and recovery is just as important. Relentlessly pushing ourselves and over-stressing our bodies can lead to burnout and result in serious injury and setbacks. As Ashletes, you are ELITE athletes, I expect you dedicate just as must time to recovery as you do to training… if not more. Allowing […]
When you think about health, our physical is where our thoughts immediately go to. Often overlooked but equally important is our mental and emotional health. These two things have a HUGE impact on our physical health and our ability to not only perform physically, but just to get up and attempt to make it through […]
Let’s talk about when and what to eat before a workout…because FOOD matters. That pre-workout meal is what Fuels your fitness and is essential if you want to get the most out of your workouts. The workouts I’m talking about are non-cardio based workouts that involve lifting weights and/or bodyweight. (Pre-cardio food intake can different […]
One of the biggest arguments I hear from women about getting in shape (specifically hiring a trainer and making healthier food choices) is “it’s too expensive”. I’ve come to realize however, that it’s not the money that most are referring to (whether or not they realize it), it’s the time investment. The cost of time […]
This year, I’m all about sharing the benefits of building strong, flexy, healthy bodies and helping people that are ready for their journey. Part of that mission is to debunk two widely reoccurring myths that I’m asked about almost daily. First: You do NOT have to chose between flexibility or muscle. You CAN HAVE BOTH. […]
2019 is finally here and my wall is full of goal posts (pun intended lol). Everyone is habitually sharing their goals and resolutions, while cheerfully optimistic about what this new year will bring. I feel like goal setting New Year’s resolutions is a socially-conscious, obligatory tradition. In reality, New Year’s, holidays, birthdays, they all really […]
When we think about relationships, the ones most focused on are those with our spouse/significant other, family, friends, and co-workers. But how’s your relationship with yourself? Specifically, YOUR BODY? I know for most of my life, my body was just this thing that existed. It was always with me, and did whatever it did. And […]
This month I want to talk to you about best practices with towels, which many of you have already heard me preach about. This mostly applies to my Pole Ashletes, but is something everyone should keep in mind. When practicing, you should ALWAYS use TWO DIFFERENT TOWELS – one as your pole cleaning towel and […]
Advancing in your pole/aerial ability requires more than just signing up for classes. Take responsibility for your aerial development and get the most out of your classes. Here are my top five tips on how to get the most out of every practice session. 1. SHOW UP regularly. You won’t grow if you don’t show. […]
Votes are in and Yoga Wheel training it is! Thanks to everyone that voted online. Curious to know what this yoga wheel thing is all about? Do you have a Yoga Wheel, but don’t know what to do with it? If you’ve been wanting to try one and are interested in learning how to use […]
Everyone wants a round, perky bum with the toned legs to match. Why do matching toned legs matter? Because they make the butt fit your body. If not you’ll be walking around looking like Kim Kardashian or K-Michelle (pre-implant removal) and trust me when I say that ain’t what you want. BUTT (pun intended lol) what […]
Let me say that I reject the notion that flexibility, pole dance, aerial fitness, and general fitness are just for the already fit and flexible. And allow me to add to that: the young, attractive, rich and privileged. Nothing about flexility and fitness belongs to any class or group of people. So forget what you […]
As you know, I firmly believe that self-care and ME time when it comes to your emotional, mental and physical health. This is a component that is often missing from our lives, especially as women, because we spend much of our time taking care of others and the cray that life throws our way each […]
I’ve been trying to cut down on meat, but still enjoy tasty eats. (More on the why behind going meatless later) Besides moving towards a healthier me, it’s hot as hell outside and so any opportunity to eat light and not turn on the oven is surly welcomed in my house! I’d like to share […]
When I started thinking about what it was I wanted to share with the world, and really the point of my presence in teaching and on social media, it required me to reflect on my personal experiences and growth. Eventually it hit me, duhhhh: Flexibility and Fitness (shortened to FlexyFit because who wants to type […]
I get comments from people all the time saying: “you don’t even look like the same person.” This happens when I post progress pics, before & after comparisons, and even when I see people I haven’t seen in a while. And you know what, they are ABSOLUTELY RIGHT! I don’t look like the same person […]
Although the title of this blog post refers to flexibility, as it was sparked by the recent posting of an extremely alarming and dangerous video, this concern really applies to all types of classes and teaching. There’s a video floating around of a instructor manually putting students into a contorted position. This “technique” was not […]
There is a dangerous and misleading epidemic in the YouTube tutorial world that is selling the idea of “instant flexibility”. Just doing a quick search of flexibility, stretching or any specific move such as splits, needle, backbend will deliver a plethora of tutorials promising quick results. These promises of getting a move “fast”, in “five […]
Do you sit at a desk all day? Are you suffering from tight quads and hip flexors? Grab your yoga wheel and give these gentle movements a try! (Thanks to one of my flexbots for requesting this tutorial!). If you’re new to Yoga Wheels and looking for tips on picking the one that’s right for […]
Are splits and overspilts on your FlexyFit wishlist? Yoga wheels are great for stretching, strengthening, massaging and toning your muscles, and even better for helping you improve your splits! In this workshop I’ll be covering techniques and my go-to flows for effective splits training. Hamstrings and hip flexors get ready flex! Bring: Your yoga […]
Summer’s almost here, which means it’s time to really get working on that bikini body, and I want to share the knowledge and tools to help you be successful. That’s why I’m teaming up with TP Fitness to host an exclusive Ladies FlexyFit Camp on Saturday April 28th from 9am to 12pm! Grab your bestie and join […]
So I’m going to share the story typically untold. All around us there are stories of weight loss and body transformations, backed by endless before and afters, workout tips, inspirational messages, training and resource offerings, etc. Less often do I come across the stores of how the weight came about, which I feel is equally […]
Yoga wheels are one of my favorite tools to use for flexibility and strength training. If you’re considering adding one to your Flexyfit toolkit, here’s some things you should know to help you with your purchase decision. First, yoga wheels are a fantastic and versatile tool that can help you: * Stretch * Strengthen * […]
Curious to know what this yoga wheel thing is all about? Do you have a Yoga Wheel, but don’t know what to do with it? If you’ve been wanting to try one and are interested in learning how to use it and incorporate it into your personal flexibility practice then this workshop is for you! […]
FlexyFit is teaming up with PediPleasers to bring you the ultimate Floor Fuckery class. We’ll explore and embrace sensual movement that will take you from bumping and grinding on the wall to melting across the floor. So let your hair down and leave your inhibitions at the door because this 60 minutes of super sexy […]
Flex Friday just got a whole lot more flexure! Join me Friday nights for an hour of feel-good stretching, that will leave you feeling longer, stronger and bendier! Whether you can’t touch your toes (yet) or you’re hoping for deeper splits and backbends, this all-levels, adult flexibility training class is for YOU! We’ll be using […]
🚨DEDICATED STUDENT ALERT 🚨 One of my new students totally made my day when she danced into the studio with a BIG smile 😁and a box 📦full of #FlexyFit gear. Just a few days before, she attended her first class with me and afterwards shared with me a little about her struggles and goals. […]
Following up part one’s introduction to building strength and endurance with my poolside workout, which includes a great line up of off the pole exercises. Hopefully by now you have a better understanding of how your strength and endurance play a role in your performance, and you’re ready for more exercises you can do to […]
When listening to your favorite song, those 3-4 minutes always seem to fly by! However, when it comes to endurance for routines, that same 3-4 minutes can seem like an eternity, leaving you exhausted, weak and out of breath. If you often feel like you’re lacking the endurance for routines, you are not alone! Building […]
Over the last few years, I’ve been on a journey of physical transformation or in muggle talk: getting in shape. When I started FlexyFit.co, my focus was to share my love of flexibility and fitness…more specifically sharing my method of enhancing your level of fitness through the practice of flexibility. And yes, that’s how the […]
I understand… Being the biggest girl in pole class Being the heaviest competitor on stage Being told that I’m “good for a big girl” Worrying whether or not the pole instructor will be able to spot me Wondering if classmates are looking at and judging my gut hanging over my shorts Having more concern about […]
It’s official! I’m a UNICORN!!! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be an ambassador for Pole Sport Organization and do my part to support and promote pole athletes entering the competition arena. Making the decision to compete, and then prepping for said competition, is a challenging, yet rewarding journey. Like I tell my […]
No matter if you are new to pole or a seasoned pro, somewhere along the way you’ve run into issues with grip. Grip and fear of slipping are a common theme amongst pole dancers, especially when it comes to competition. There are endless articles and shared posts about various grip aids: types, what to use, […]
The buzz on social media is a sizzling feud between two brands that I know, like and support. Maybe you’ve heard, maybe you haven’t. You’re not missing much either way, but by the time you finish reading this, you’ll get the skinny of what’s going on. The dialogue between Liquid Motion® and Xoticy® isn’t the first […]
Fake It Till You Make It Long, strong, healthy nails: you can fake them or you can make them! For more than ten years, I’ve been faking them. As a dedicated consumer in the nail salon industry, I can only imagine the small fortune I’ve given away while simultaneously damaging my own nails beyond recognition. I jumped […]
This is a post about change, but really about nails, that turns out to still really just be about change (and not the kind that jingles in your pocket). When I started writing (what ended up to be this post) I was actually intending to write about my decision to give up fake nails and […]
Competition is right around the corner and I know we’ll all have open eyes and ears when it comes to any sort of tips and tricks that can help ensure success. While we all want to do our very best, there’s a few things that you just shouldn’t try out for the first time before […]
Just as the right outfit can make a good impression at a job interview, on a first date or even just help you feel good during the day, the right costume will have a significant impact on the competition stage. And believe it or not theres a lot that goes into finding the right costume. […]
Recently i’ve been training more in Lyra, aerial yoga/hammock and TRX to diversify my knowledge and increase my aerial ability. One of my 2017 Goals and an overall goal on my Lyracorn journey, was to complete Lrya certification. As with my first pole certification, my objective was to build on my lyra foundations, rather than just […]
Initially, this post was a part of my Spin City Beginner Lyra Training review. I wanted to share my thoughts on that experience, but as I started writing I realized that I had much more to share on teaching training and certification in general. I decided that separating my training thoughts from that training experience […]
Flexibility seems to be on the top of every aerialist’s wishlist these days, although it isn’t just for aerialists, it’s for all athletes and everyday people. Participating in a regular stretch routine can calm the mind, reduce pain and improve quality of life. Whether it’s for your favorite hardcore aerial athlete, someone that’s just trying […]
Week three is upon us! Last week had some serious challenges, but we made it! I don’t know about you, but I’m already starting to see the gains and benefits of this focused core push. This week we’re incorporating some back work. It’s important to work opposing muscles and the back is very much a […]
If you attended any of my flexibility classes this past week you got a little taste of dancer pose and needle scale prep. Challenging, but fun! As you can see, these two skills require a great deal of body awareness and have quite a few moving pieces – balance, open hips, splits and back flexibility. This […]
Week two is here and we’re really ramping it up! Great job to those that rocked week one and welcome to those that are just now joining in! Each day has a different set of exercises and we’re going to do three rounds of those exercises each day. You should have a really sweet pump […]
Yay, it’s day 1 of the Aerial Conditioning and Core challenge with me and @intimatespins and We’re starting with a few key and essential exercises, then we’ll build from there. Four core drills today…let’s get it!! 1. V-Ups. Start lying flat on your back, crunch up with legs in a tuck, then a pike then straddle. […]
httpvh://youtu.be/qbwgW1WDOv0 ‘ December is here and it’s time to make some serious aerial gains! I’m thrilled to have teamed up with the beautiful and talented Jennifer Huff to bring you this aerial conditioning and core challenge. All month long we’re going to be sharing some of our favorite conditioning drills, along with training tips and […]
So before we dive into this week’s HomeWork, I just want to let you in on a little secret! Starting in December I’ll also be co-hosting an aerial conditioning and core challenge. So you’ll have twice the gains to look forward to. Keep you eye out for the official announcement in the next couple of […]
Who completed your week one Flex From HomeWork?!? Week one was about setting your space and gathering the toys you’ll need to help you on your FlexyFit journey with me. If you missed it, go ahead and start here then come back to this post! Before we begin, go ahead and pat yourself on the back for […]
Okay boys and girls there are some things that we just absolutely CAN NOT take into the new year. I know that Pole•Lyra•Silks•Trapeze•Cube•Flexibility•Flow (Insert whatever aerial sport you do) are fun in terms of fitness, but they are a SPORT at the end of the day. Sports that come with REAL injuries. Sexy, fun or […]
So you want to be about that Flexy Life, huh? Flexibility seems to be at the top of every pole dancer and aerialist’s to-do list these days. Everyone just wants “to be more flexible” or “able to do the splits”. While these are both great goals, there is so much more to flexibility than splits […]
A few weeks ago I was lucky to come out of retirement and perform at PSO Southwest in Fort Worth. Returning to the competition stage after a hiatus was such a fulfilling experience. This competition differed vastly from all of my previous competitions. The biggest difference was my goals, which were primarily fitness oriented. I knew […]
The Jade Split Handstand is a beautiful blend of balance and flexibility. There are two ways that (I know of) that you can get into it. Give them both a try and if you come up with another way, let us know! ONE: You want to decide which side (hand, wrist, arm, shoulder) is […]
We’ll be getting eXtremely Flexy in this NEW all-levels flexibility class! Xtreme Flex is your go-to class for all-things stretchy, flexy and contortiony! Whether you are already super flexible or just getting started on your flexibility journey, we’ll take your flexibility to the next level and help you become stronger and more balanced along the […]
I’m super thrilled to share my newest weekly class with you!! We’ll be getting eXtremely Flexy in this NEW all-levels flexibility class! Xtreme Flex is your go-to class for all-things stretchy, flexy and contortiony! Whether you are already super flexible or just getting started on your flexibility journey, we’ll take your flexibility to the next […]
Okay, so there’s a discussion that is currently going on in the pole world and it has been on my mind continuously since I first read about it. After seeing much of the back and forth I felt like I need to express my thoughts on this out loud. Not to ignite any additional […]
Recording your practice sessions is one of the best things you can do when working on a trick or routine. Being able to actually see yourself in motion allows you to identify both the good and the bad from start to finish – and not just one key moment (as with photos). Now don’t […]
The legend continues with the 5th Anniversary of the Miss Texas Pole Star Competition, which is sure to be phenomenal! Last year’s event debuted the Women’s Professional division – which I was lucky to compete in. This year brings with it a lot of exiting new additions. First, MTPS is not just for […]
Bendability Fitness posted some great tips on relieving sore muscles and I thought it would be great to share it with you. 1. Apply Heat to the sore Area. Applying heat to the area increases blood flow to that area, which helps the small muscle tears to heal faster. Examples: Sauna, hot tub, steam, hot […]
It was a privilege and joy to assist at the Xpert training this weekend. Allison Sipes is simply amazing and inspiring. Experiencing the training from another perspective was so insightful. I must have written at least 30 pages of notes. Tricia, thank you for opening up your studio to host this great program. And to the new […]
When I started FreeStyle Friday I never imagined how quickly it would grow. The support from studios, pros and students has just been incredible. I am thrilled to hear from so many instructors and studios that have been inspired to start a FreeStyle Friday class at their studio. A little background… FreeStyle Friday started as […]
“Sometimes all you need is a slight shift in perspective to bring things into Focus.” – Ashley RobinsonWow, 2013 came and went quickly. And although I’m a little behind, I wanted to still take a moment to gather my thoughts and set some goals for 2014. This time last year my life had changed dramatically […]
Competitions open to Texas Residents PSO: Pacific Pole Championships – Los Angeles, CA www.polesportorganization.com/champ/pacific/ Tryout videos due: N/A ($99 Amateur Levels 1-4 and Showcase. $190 Pro Event) Competition: March 1-2, 2014 *Texas residents may enter amateur levels. Pro level has a regional residency requirement and is NOT open to Texas residents. Miss Pole Dance Oklahoma […]
GET YOUR MIND RIGHT Lately I’ve noticed that many of my fellow pole sisters are making their decision to (or not to) compete based on who else may be trying out and competing. Please do not fall victim to this way of thinking. This is absolutely the WRONG way to make your decision and really […]
You may not realize it, but tracking your pole journey is ultimate key in your development and success. If you haven’t been keeping track of your progress then this is something that I highly suggest you start doing. It’s hard to know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been. Now I know […]
I decided to join in on this month’s Pole Dance Blogger’s Blog Hop which is centered around a whole bunch of questions that we’re all answering. It is great to see the camaraderie throughout the pole community and I welcome any opportunity for us to share, connect and unite. My responses below share insight on […]
Zensual Dance in Dallas held their spring graduation / open house a few weeks ago allowing their students and instructors to showcase their pole and dance skills. In addition to being the guest performer, I was also the official photographer for the event and spent the night capturing photos of each of the stunning […]
Last week I attended the Spring 2013 Graduation / Open House event at Zensual Dance in Dallas. I was there as both a guest performer and the event photographer and had a blast. This event was so much fun to watch and capture on camera. I had spent the last few months attending Pole After […]
I’m excited to share my successes from another great night of pole during Cirque De Pole class. Over the last few week’s I’ve been focused on really stepping my game up on the pole and it’s really starting to show. I was able to hold my Iron X just a little bit longer and I […]
So Tuesday was my 28th birthday and I went to pole with the Kandy & Krome ladies at their Cirque Du Pole class and had a blast. I enjoyed being able to spend my birthday doing something that I really love to do! And it was definitely one of my best days of poling yet! […]
So last week Vertical Fitness Dallas announced that they were offering a free BUTI Fitness introductory class, and always being up for anything fitness these days I recruited a few friends and decided to go. Before the class I checked out the demo video on YouTube and was instantly excited about this new workout. Dynamic […]
I just wanted to share a little excerpt from a book I’m reading. The authors point out that “…[in regard to inaction] Actions could have had results. It is generally better to do something rather than nothing, because action just might have a positive effect. There’s even more to the advantage of action over inaction…it’s […]
For the last few weeks we’ve been working on this awesome pole split (shown right). You can never go wrong with splits! You can go into it from a jasmine or right before you flip into your superman. It’s a great pose to use in a routine as it makes for a great photo op. […]
I think I’m definitely starting to get addicted to the pole competition scene. I remember telling myself after my first competition (back in 2011) that I would never do it again…but somehow I found myself drawn right back to competitive pole. It’s almost crazy to think about the weeks and months we spend putting wear […]
I’d have to say that Miss Pole Dance Oklahoma has been my best competition yet. My goal with this competition was simple: to do better than I had done at my Houston competition…and I feel like I was successful in meeting that goal. My MPDO competition journey started off with a last minute decision to […]
I’m really proud of my performance routine at Miss Pole Dance Oklahoma. Even though it was my 3rd major competition, it was the first one where I felt like I actually belonged and was good enough to be there. Below are some amazing photos caught by Minh Visual at the competition that highlight some of […]
This past Saturday, The Girls Room hosted their second annual St. Patrick’s Day competition, which featured beginning, intermediate and advanced level students. The competition also featured a special showcase portion where no-competitors also showed off their pole moves. There was even an impromptu surprise performance from Miss Texas Pole Star Ultimate Division Runner up AND […]
One of the things I enjoy most about FreeStyle Friday is all of the new music that we are all exposed to. Our song request/suggestions list has brought new music to my attention that I might not have have otherwise come across on my own. And I’ve found that the music from our past FreeStyle […]
Stress and soreness have taken over my life and my body over the last few weeks as I’ve been preparing for competition. I was surprised and honored to find out that I was accepted as a finalist in the Miss Pole Dance Oklahoma competition (next weekend) and then I decided to also enter a local […]
I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining the PoleFreaks team as a contributing blogger. This is a wonderful opportunity that will allow me to connect with more of the pole community. We are all on this journey together and I feel that it is important for us to help educate and mentor […]
Many of us are still trying to find our groove when it comes to freestyle dance. I hear the words: “I can’t freestyle” all too often from my pole sisters. And heck, I’ve even said them before myself. But I’m here to tell you that you CAN freestyle. If you would have told me a […]
I’m part of a group on Facebook called Dallas Handstand February. Everyone in this group is dedicating the month of February to getting or improving their handstands. What’s neat about this group is that there is a scavenger-like hunt thrown in there as an extra challenge to get us to do our handstands in fun […]
Phoenix Kazree is one of the most beautiful pole artists I’ve seen. She produces some of the most stunning and original pole combos that leave you in awe and she executes them so gracefully. Last week Phoenix posted this really neat spin combo and I am determined to learn it! Check out her execution of […]
Yesterday I started a new diet in hopes that I can finally get the rest of this weight off. I’m tired of being in this weight limbo, not knowing if I’m a fat skinny girl or a skinny fat girl…and not being able to buy new clothes that actually fit. So needless to say, I […]
So last night I found out that I was chosen as a finalist for the Miss Pole Dance Oklahoma competition and I’m thrilled about this opportunity. I am one of three wonderful ladies that will be going there to represent Texas. I’ve dubbed us as TEAM TEXAS, which consists of myself, Tricia Lauerman (2012 Miss […]
Trick of the week is a continuation of last week’s 2-point handstand. If you missed it last week or if you haven’t gotten it all the way down then continue working on it this week. Here’s the how to: http://bit.ly/VmhSAw Transitioning into the Chopper Make sure that you’re in a stable, well-balanced handstand. Rotate at […]
So school is officially back underway and I’ve literally been buried in my studies. In the last 3 days alone I’ve read two books (over 500 pages) and written 11 pages of reports. Despite all of the reading and course work, I must say that I am very much enjoying grad school. My current course […]
I love doing handstands during my routines and coming up with fun ways to get into and out of various handstands. I call this week’s trick a “two-point handstand”…because you have two different points of contact that allow you to execute your handstand. Before attempting the trick you should be comfortable with doing a traditional […]
(My Cardio Results from tonight’s workout) I think Thursday is now my other favorite day of the week in addition to FreeStyle Friday! Even though it is the longest night of my week, I’m definitely digging Thursdays because of my new class routines. I started off the night with some cardio; I made it a […]
(My Cardio Results from tonight’s workout) Getting through last night’s cardio was much tougher than Monday’s cardio session. The stair climber was really kicking my butt! Somehow I managed to push through another 8+ miles and get it done. I admit that once I hit my minimum trainer-required 1,000 calories, I got a little excited […]
One of my goals for 2013 was to De-Clutter all aspects of my life – which largely includes reorganizing all of the files on my computers and dozens of flash drives. I’ve slowly been making progress and along the way have come across a few items that had slipped my mind. The other day […]
(My Cardio Results from tonight’s workout) So, even though I’ve been back in the gym with my trainer I haven’t really been hitting it as hard as I need to be…and my cardio game is seriously lacking. And despite being serious in talk about losing these last 15-20 pounds I don’t think I’ve been serious […]
When I started FreeStyle Friday I never imagined how quickly it would grow. The support from studios, pros and students has just been incredible. I am thrilled to hear from so many instructors and studios that have been inspired to start a FreeStyle Friday class at their studio. A little background… FreeStyle Friday started as […]
This week’s trick of the week is called the Bomb…no literally it’s called a “BOMB”. What I like about this trick is that not only can it be used in the middle of your routine (a great time to steal a quick breath) but it also makes a great starting position for routines. You can […]
Vertical Fitness Dallas started their Fit Body Challenge this past Sunday. This is their third year hosting this challenge to help ladies start working towards achieving fit bodies. I was in attendance to meet the great group of ladies that will be doing the challenge and to take their before shots. They have an challenging […]
“Sometimes all you need is a slight shift in perspective to bring things into Focus.” – Ashley RobinsonThis is a great way to summarize the “WHY” of many of the goals that I’ve set for myself this year. I’m always writing down random words, thoughts and ideas – many times in my phone’s note pad […]
This week’s trick of the week is the Fan Kick. I know you all have this down so use it as a refresher and try to incorporate it into your FSF video this week. This is a great transition that will also allow you to get in that quick breather. Pair it with a Pirouette […]
Twisted grip mounting was one of those tricks that I never thought I’d get. I was in awe every time I saw someone throw that trick. However I just couldn’t wrap my mind around how to get my own body to do it. To make things worse, I broke a foot during my initial attempts […]
I remember when I first started to learn shoulder mounting, seemed like it would be years before I got it. It’s taken more than a year to finally get to a point where I don’t struggle or do what I call a “soccer kick” into it. And while I still haven’t mastered it, I can […]
This is my favorite shot from the Zensual Winter Showcase and graduation ceremony. They invited me to shoot the event and I had a blast crawling around the studio capturing some amazing action shots! Their small but intimate event featured a group performance, several solo performances, a fun and creative Grinch routine, yummy snacks and […]
December 7, 2012 Vertical Fitness Dallas celebrated their Jingle Bell Bash/Charity Toy drive and I was thrilled to be in attendance shooting the event. The night featured a sassy jingle bell rock group routine, a sexy Curvalicious dance, a booty poppin’ routine, a level 2 pole group routine, a sexy flexy number by B and […]
Lately I’ve been focused on “dealing with work and life” and in turn allowed my own personal goals and feelings to be buried beneath it all. So one of my goals for 2013 is to take better care of myself and do more for me. I think that the only way to transform your outside […]
For the last few days I’ve been watching all of the FSF videos I’ve done to date and I’ve noticed a few [bad] habits that seem to occur every time I dance. Habits that I’m hoping to unlearn in the new year. So that got me thinking and I decided that I wanted to share […]
Okay, so I’m finally starting to recover from this cold that I picked up right after competition. It was like a day of fatigue and extreme tiredness…and then WHAM….I’m sick. But, now that I can sit up straight long enough to type, I thought it would be a great time to recap my time […]
OK, so I just got word that the Choreography House will also be hosting a LAS VEGAS RETREAT at the end of this year! If you’re not familiar with The Choreography House, it is ran by Kelly Yvonne – who is probably one of the most talented and dedicated choreographers that we have in the […]
Last week I was given the opportunity to perform with a handful of the students and instructors at Zensual’s Pole-A-Ween bash. This event was small, intimate and so much fun. In addition to all of the wonderful performances, there was also fun decorations, cute costumes and lots of love in the room. Great times were […]
At the end of the Zensual Poleaween bash the students and staff got together to record a group freestyle to this week’s FreeStyle Friday song. Their start on the wall and branching off one-by-one was made a great start to their freestyle. Check it out! httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ3HdKTPTNw
Just sharing some fun memories from a BADAZZ weekend spent with my pole brother and friend Josiah BadAzz. He made a visit to Dallas back in April (on my birthday weekend) and we had a blast hanging out and visiting the studios out here. httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcr631BZe6U BadAzz doing a fun freestyle at Vertical Fitness Dallas
Over the past few years (through a breakup, multiple foot breaks, foot surgery, work stress, school, family and just life in general) I lost myself. I forgot who I was, why I existed and what I was [supposed to be] working towards in life. Who new that the start of a fitness program and a […]
Over this past weekend I had the opportunity to participate in the Xpert Pole Fitness training program, held at the Miss Texas Pole Star convention here in Dallas. This experience was so fulfilling and foundational to my growth and development as a pole fitness athlete. It is definitely one of the best decisions I’ve made […]
Ok, I am officially on AB Watch! Over the last few weeks I’ve been eating extra clean and stayed faithful to my cardio…and to my surprise and excitement there are actually some abs starting to peak through! Now, in addition to the recent weight loss (to the tune of 30+ pounds), the possibility of ABS […]
My music tastes are very eclectic. One thing I love most about pole dancing is that it has extended my range of taste in music. When I hear songs now, my mind immediately goes to routines. Could I dance to this song? What trick could go here? What transition would fit there? So now I […]
So I was totally bummed to find out that I didn’t make MTPS this year. I mean, I’ve grown so much over the last year and I was ready to show off the new improved pole goddess. Well, as they say everything happens for a reason…but it wasn’t until a few weeks after MTPS finalists […]
So there’s a scene in the movie Remember the Titans where the football team finally starts to come together. They are at practice and after an great block two of the guys start chanting “Left side, strong side”. It is this moment that they realize the order and BALANCE necessary to succeed as a team…and […]
A topic of much discussion throughout the pole community seems to pertain to the ability (or inability) to freestyle. Questions and comments of “How do I freestyle?“, “I can’t freestyle“, float around our groups and forums all too often. I’m starting to notice (as it was also pointed out to me) that much of this […]
There is a wave of professional pole talent that is sweeping through Texas, to share their skill and experience with us. With all of the upcoming competitions, this is the perfect way to get some additional (and specialized) practice in. I think that having an opportunity to work with the pros has a big impact […]
When it comes to pole I’m all about the tricks. I love learning and practicing new tricks…they just get me energized. But as we all know, it takes a lot more than good tricks to make it in a competition. A solid (and winning) competition routine is a well-balanced mix of technique, flexibility, artistry (the […]
One of the things I enjoy most about studio hopping is that I get to meet (and learn from) so many talented ladies. I believe that it is always great to work with new people who can help offer new ideas, different perspectives and share their expertise. To be a well-rounded pole dancer you need […]
Last night I was disappointed to find out that I did not make it to MTPS this year…talk about being bummed. Ironically there were two other ladies with the same last name as me…so I was momentarily excited and then quickly disappointed: TWICE. But it was definitely a bitter-sweet moment. Even though I didn’t make […]
There is a lot of really exciting stuff coming up in the Texas pole world. I just received word today, that the wonderful ladies behind the Melee on the Bayou Pole Dance Competition are gearing up for the 2nd Annual event. This is going to be a fantastic competition that showcases the talented ladies of […]
Another pole competition….umm yea!!! If you haven’t heard, the Southern Pole Championships will be going on in Houston on November 3, 2012. Now, you’d think that with all the stress of MTPS tryouts and waiting for the finalists to be announced, that the last thing I’d be considering is entering another competition. Well surprisingly (even to […]
I think the best way to excel in all areas of pole is to explore all areas. So part of my personal pole growth is fueled by taking classes at all of the studios here in the DFW…plus it’s a great way to meet more awesome pole friends. Here’s a list of the local studios […]
So as the pole community continues to grow, we are seeing various avenues that dancers are taking. While still a form of fitness for many, others are turning their attention to teaching, competing, showcasing and more. Pole dancing has also become a gateway into other aerial arts such as silks and hoops. While competing and […]
Naturally, when Girl Next Door announced it would be premiering in Dallas (March 2012) this was a great new opportunity that offered our pole community a sense of performance fulfillment…without the stress of competitions. Competitions are rewarding but they aren’t for everyone. So a pole showcase to pull together our Texas pole talent was definitely what […]
I am happy to announce the launch of FLIGHT CLUB Dallas! Those who know me know that I’ve been wanting to start a pole club here in Dallas for a while now. So it is super exciting that it is finally happening and that we are able to do it as a part of Aerial […]
For the last 9 months I have been on a fitness journey with the help of my awesome trainer. After 4 years of back-to-back injuries (4 broken feet, a foot surgery and most recently a broken pinky toe) my body increased and expanded in ways I never expected. Honestly, I don’t think I realized how […]
OK, so I am new to this whole blogging thing, but I think it will help me find out more about myself and get back to who I used to be so that I can realize who I was always meant to be. This probably makes sense to no one but me and I am […]
Tryout video in and now the wait begins! August 1st can come soon enough. I honestly went into tryouts thinking that it would be easier this year, I mean I’m seasoned right? Boy was I wrong! Despite being 30lbs lighter, way stronger, dancing with more confidence and performing moves with a higher skill level, putting […]
