Pole Fitness lessons Burgess Hill by Qualified Instructor Kay Penney

Recent Interview

1) Details: How many square feet/size of studio? How tall are the ceilings? How many poles/how tall?

Large private studio with 6 poles –
4 floor to ceiling poles semi removable 50mm grip ( just over 3 metres high ) with 3 metre distance between each Pole
with 2 brand NEW free standing R-poles which are 38mm diameter grip for the new beginners and advanced students



2) How many classes per week do you teach there? And what levels?

I teach my own regular weekly classes once a week, and support and attend all the other studios on a regular weekly basis. I teach pole, chair, burlesque and cheerleading every weekend in party setting. I am head of programme development and course structure, always updating and developing new lessons and courses. I also teach out of 3 other studios too and offer regular 3 day monthly instructor training in Pole Fitness and Burlesque Instructor techniques.
I am happiest when I am teaching I love my job and inspiring new comers to pole. I love to see their enthusiasm and determination and the students growing professionally and personally.
I offer mixed ability classes suitable for complete beginners (my speciality) up to advanced level focusing on fitness as opposed to super advanced tricks sessions. I’m very patient, motivational and enthusiastic which is sometimes especially needed at beginner level.
Our programmes do this by incorporating routines and combinations to build cardiovascular fitness as well as stretching and strength conditioning
Mixed ability classes, which I believe is more challenging, however, which I find hugely rewarding to teach, ensuring that all participants receive great value for money, that they are constantly improving and challenged. The importance for me is that the professional first impressions last.



3) How many students per class and per pole?

The class sizes vary from month to month as we offer a pay as you go scheme to accommodate the busy lives of women!! Anything from 8-16 students per 1 hour lesson
Our maximum capacity on the 6 poles are 3 participants per pole.
I have two qualified Pole Fitness instructors (who have been qualified through Pole Passion’s accredited pole fitness instructor training scheme) assisting me each lesson and one apprentice who has just joined our apprentice programme.

4) What classes do you offer in addition to pole?

I offer pole fitness, pole stretching specific to pole technique, burlesque and chair dancing workshops and classes – however the company offers a variety of other style dance and fitness

5) What are the age ranges?

From 16 – 55 is our most popular age range!!

6) Do you have men’s classes?

As yet we do not have regular pole fitness classes specific to men as we believe the strength techniques are very different to that of a woman. Currently we offer 1-2-1 tuition for men. We do also have one male Pole Passion instructor in our team and he is very popular with the ladies!! We are looking to introduce mixed gender classes and male classes in 2010

We are introducing the first Male competition this year – Mr Pole Fitness UK 2009 on October 4th held in our flagship pole gym studio at Burgess Hill

http://www.polepassion.com/comps/mr-pole-fitness-competition/



7) Youth options?

Our age range is set at a minimum age of 16 years as a social obligation rather than the content taught in class.
This age was reduced from age 18 last year to keep inline with the ‘standard’ gym fitness policy regulated by the Fitness Industry Association. Currently we have no plans to reduce this age however we are always assessing the industry and customer demand. We abide by the Code of Pole Practice introduced in 2006 specifically designed for the pole fitness industry and is currently being adopted in Russia and Hungary also.

http://www.polepassion.com/fitness/code/


8) What products and accessories do you use and promote at your facility? Poles/Grip/Mats and Safety gear/clothing & shoes?

Our online shop offers a wide variety of accessories and products specific to pole and this range is always expanding as the industry expands.

http://www.polepassion.com/shop/

We offer R-Poles – all types free standing and floor to ceiling poles, mats, a variety of pole grips, pole clothing range, pole safety cloths and car stickers!

We did also use to supply shoes and boots but this became very time consuming and specialist so we now leave that to the professionals!!

Our main product is the NEW R-pole, portable, light weight, free standing pole which is specifically designed for gym use. This pole was designed out of need. There was not a pole on the market which allowed instructors, like me, to teach out of gyms and sports halls with high ceilings.

www.r-polefitness.com





9) Does Pole Passion have other studios? How many?

Yes Pole Passion currently offers regular Pole Fitness classes in eight different locations and with the introduction to our new license opportunities can now offer Instructors to be apart of the brand.
Sharing the professionalism and FUN!

10) What are your plans for growth and the future?

Future plans have always been my main focus and Company moto – to allow every woman and men the opportunity to pole dance and learn the art of pole without the fear of being wrongly judged. To continue to create inspiration through our unique training programmes, to deliver fitness and FUN!
To continue to create regular professional training programmes and networking opportunities and Master Classes for professionals all over the world bringing and integrating techniques for all to share and benefit from.
Continue to educate and inspire the general public through our competitions Miss Pole Dance UK Professional, Miss Pole Dance UK Amateur, Mr Pole Fitness UK and World Pole Dance – international, competitions
www.misspoledance-uk.com
www.worldpoledance.com
http://www.polepassion.com/comps/
http://www.polepassion.com/comps/mr-pole-fitness-competition/


11) Tell us briefly about the accreditation of your studio and instructors?
I currently have 13 pole instructors and one apprentice (one is even on loan in Australia !! we want her back after her travels please)

The Pole Fitness Instructor accreditations were created to reinforce our professionalism. For me it was a way of educating new fitness instructors and the general public, not familiar with pole techniques, on a higher national professional level. It took me 7 years of experience in the pole fitness and dance industry and two years to write Level 1 Pole fitness instructor training qualification and Level 2 Pole fitness instructor training advanced techniques. It includes 15 years of fitness experience. I have made the courses fun yet challenging, they are designed to inspire and challenge the pole instructor to think out of the box and to be the best they can be. This has been my most rewarding achievement in the company to date, as the courses hold the highest award and certification in the UK fitness industry to date.
REP’s accreditation and Skills Active are highly respected governing bodies in the UK and we are very proud to be associated with them. Both courses hold the highest certifications at 16 Points each

12) What is your most popular class(es)?

Pole fitness & dance

Anything else fun or unique about the studio, students, experiences there you want to share...please feel free! and we look forward to the finished product! THANKS A TON!
Every day brings new fun and challenges it has been the most rewarding job I have ever had. Did I say job??? I meant hobby!!  I am very privileged to have a ‘job’ I love so much. The students and my fellow instructors are all so amazing. They are warm and caring people who benefit both emoptionally and physically fro this for of dance and exercise.



In 2006 I was told that pole fitness would not take off for another 8 years at least!! it would not be accepted in 'family gyms'..... It became my quest to prove them wrong….. I love a challenge 

www.polepassion.com Empwerment confidence fitness & FUN!

Leisure Industry Week ~ Pole Fitness Teacher Training

Leisure Industry Week special offer
22ND 23RD 24TH September 2009



If you phone us before October 1st to reserve your space/s on the following REP’s Accredited Pole Fitness Instructor Training level 1 (February & March 2010) and / or REP’s level 2 (November 2009 & April 2010)
Pole Fitness Instructor certification/qualifications
You will receive a FREE
Pole instructor starter kit worth £37
Including pole shorts, pole cloths and pole grip




Call me now on Tel: 0871 318 3838 for more information
Or email Debbie on theteam@passion-fitness.com

for more information follow the link below :)

http://www.polepassion.com/news/pole-passion/pole-instructor-training/




www.polepassion.com
www.r-polefitness.com




Spaces are limited and booked on a first come first served basis

Mr Pole Fitness UK

Calling all male pole dancers
Inspiring Talent ~ Promoting Ambition

The first pole fitness competition for Male pole dancers and performers is being organised by the organisers of World Pole Dance, Miss Pole Dance UK professional and amateur events since 2005

Kay Penney owner and founder of Pole Passion and of the Miss Pole Dance UK championships and World Pole Dance fitness championship competitions has coupled up with top male pole dancer Adam Jay who owns his own pole company Pole FX. The pair met at Miss Pole Dance UK 2005 competition where AJ, as he is better known, was the official pole cleaner!
'Obviously it’s important to not only have a male on the judging panel but also to help organise the competition too. We are delighted to be working with AJ, he's fun and professional and a great inspirational teacher for both men and women so it was important for us to have someone well respected in the industry.' mentions Ms Penney.



This year being the first year for Mr Pole Fitness competition anticipating it will only be small, as was Miss Pole Dance UK for the women in 2005 when it first started, although in just 4 years the competition has grown to being the largest UK pole competition and possibly even the world.


So by calling all men, boyfriends, husbands, uncles over the age of 16 to demonstrate the athletic skill and strength required to perform on and a round a pole to music of their choice to a style of their choice for a minimum of 4 minutes.
With strict rules and guidelines we are excited as to see how it evolves as we are finding more and more men are now being attracted to the pole as a fitness devise and performance prop.
Helping to remove and dispel all prejudices and stereotyping.

Registration and applications are through Pole Passion Events on email
theteam@passion-fitness.com

Tel: 0871 318 3838

The competition details
Time: 2-5pm
Date: 4th October 2009
Pole Gym Venue:
Olympos, (The Triangle), Triangle Way,
Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 8WA

Cost: £5 per spectators ticket Donations to breast cancer awareness

www.polepassion.com
http://www.polepassion.com/comps/mr-pole-fitness-competition/
www.polefx.com



Children spectators are welcome however they must be accompanied by an adult
The competition is being sponsored by www.r-polefitness.com

Taylor’s Retreat ~ Studio

Pole Passion
Events & Accommodation



Empowerment confidence fitness & FUN!

· Pole Studio: 9 x 4 meter poles 38mm & 50mm static and
spinning poles available with under floor heating

http://www.r-polefitness.com/

· Dance & events studio: licensed bar & sound system with fully
fitted kitchen facilities suitable for all events

· Venue Address:
16th Century converted barn located in the country side
Taylor’s Retreat Pole Studio
Ruspers Road
Capel
Surrey
RH5 5HF

· Free and easy parking

· Bed & Breakfast accommodation available on location

· For booking and information:
Call tel: 0871 318 3838
Email: theteam@polepassion.com

http://www.polepassion.com/

Pole Passion Presents Pole Jamaica

Pole Passion proudly present the opportunity to learn the skills of Pole Dancing / Burlesque and related Dance in the Caribbean!

The event will take place on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 12:00am and will end on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 12:00am.



The venue will be the stunning Hedonism resort in Runaway Bay Jamaica.

The Pole and Exotic Dance Week at Hedonism III arranged by Pole Passion was a great success in 2009 and we were delighted when they approached us to make the arrangements to repeat this amazing week again in 2010. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to take part in a a really great event held at one of the world's most famous resorts in Jamaica's fabulous Caribbean sunshine.

Join other enthusiasts and participate with champion pole dancers from around the world.Jamaica, in the Greater Antilles, is the largest of the English-speaking Caribbean islands. The lush, tropical vegetation, refreshing waterfalls, white sandy beaches and the reggae atmosphere make this a fascinating country.

The country is very mountainous, with the highest point, Blue Mountain Peak, reaching 7,402 feet. With an average temperature of 82°F, you’ll find that the many fine beaches are particularly inviting.

Hedonism resorts, with their liberal attitude and party atmosphere, are adult only destinations dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure - the perfect location for an action packed week of pole dancing.We will be offering Instruction in Pole Dancing, Lap Dancing, Silks, Burlesque and much more.

Full daily itinerary of Pole activities, tricks workshops and a Grand final will be held to find Miss Hedo 2010!International Guest Instructors to be announced shortly.

Please email Excapes on online@excapesholidays.co.uk to book your place.

All bookings made before the 30th of November will be at the discounted price of £1100 with a low deposit from £200 per person.

If you would like further information please call the Pole Passion team on 0871 3183838 or e-mail them at theteam@passion-fitness.com

The Pole Passion team. http://www.polepassion.com/ - sponsors http://www.r-polefitness.com/

Miss Pole Dance UK Amateur - Judges 2009

Kay Penney Bio August 2009
Miss Pole Dance UK Amateur judge & coordinator

Kay Penney – head judge and organiser. Founder and Managing Director of Pole Passion Ltd established in January 2005 has been poling since 2001 soon after the birth of her third child for fun and an alternative way to keep fit

Kay is a highly experienced and qualified fitness, health and beauty therapist expert, now working towards her A1 level 3 Assessors qualification, in her continual quest to make pole technique and fitness an accredited and accepted form of physical fitness for all.

Kay quickly realised that pole technique if marketed correctly and professionally could benefit many participants and students looking for a new, fun and challenging form of fitness quickly establishing one of the first independent pole schools in the world.

With the explosion and rapid success of her unique fitness programmes, fun pole parties and master classes she, with the support of her dedicated team, has quickly made Pole Passion one of the world’s most respected pole fitness companies in the world.

She is a renowned International pole judge and instructor and teaches regular mixed ability classes in and around the Sussex area, being invited over to judge the first World Pole Dance finals in Holland in 2005, creator of Miss Pole Dance UK Professional and Amateur competitions, co creator of Mr Pole Fitness championships, pioneering competitive synchronised doubles and author of accredited Level 1 & 2 Pole Fitness Instructor training qualifications. Invited judge to Japan, Russia, Hungry and Germany, she is also author of the code of pole practice created in 2006, the first of its kind.

Kay also enjoys all elements of traditional dance and is an accomplished performer and burlesque instructor

She is a member of Equity, FIA, REP’s & Sussex Enterprize, and an honorary member of the Pole Fitness Association USA

Co creator of the first light weight, portable, free standing pole suitable for gym fitness and tricks and home use

email: kay@polepassion.com

http://www.polepassion.com/

http://www.r-polefitness.com/

Debbie Merchant
Bio ~ August 2009

Miss Pole Dance UK
Pole Passion Ltd

Debbie Merchant is Pole Passion’s most advanced pole instructor and has been working with Pole Passion since 2006 teaching thousands of students in fitness and party settings including full day master classes and regular 2 hour workshop settings. Debbie is a professional and accomplished dancer not only in pole technique but in cheerleading and chair dancing too. She has co written many of Pole Passion’s fitness sessions and assisted in the REP’s Accredited instructor programmes and was the face and model for the Pole Fitness Instructor training qualifications created in 2007.

As an accomplished pole instructor she teaches regular mixed ability classes in L A Fitness in East Grinstead. She has been a vital member of the Miss Pole Dance Organisation since 2006 holding the title of competitor coordinator and an invited judge for Miss Pole Dance UK 2008/09 Amateur competitions.

Debbie was an integral part in organising the World Pole Sport & Fitness Championships 2009 and stage manager.

Debbie is Pole Passion’s events Manager and Sales manager of the new R pole and communicates with all pole enthusiasts across the world.


email: theteam@passion-fitness.com

http://www.polepassion.com/

http://www.r-polefitness.com/

Deb Riley Bio August 2009

Miss Pole Dance UK amateur judge

Deb Riley is most renowned for her amazing, unique and super advanced pole tricks. Due to her continual dedication and hard work over the last 4 years working within the pole industry and with her natural flare, daring approach and friendly professionalism she is well recognized as one of the best tricks instructors in the UK.
Although based in Stoke-on-Trent she has traveled the length and breadth of the UK to pass on her unique teachings to other pole instructors and students.

As an accomplished pole instructor and finalist competitor in Miss Pole Dance Fitness UK professional competition in both ‘glamour & fitness’ categories in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and invited judge for Miss Pole Dance UK 2008 amateur competition, she is now building a considerable reputation within the global pole industry, culminating in her appearance at the World Championship finals in April 2009 in Jamaica where she represented the United Kingdom.

Deb also has established contributions to the safety of pole instruction by creating the Pole-o-mat concept which was born in 2006. At that time it became clear, that despite the huge growth and success of pole dancing as a form of fitness there was nothing available in the market to enable people to practice safely.

After consultation with many professionals in the field, Deb's first designs for Pole-o-mat were launched and the mat was an instant success.
Since then much work has been done to improve the design, quality and safety of the mat and she is now delighted to share the finished product with you, whether a complete beginner or super standard like Deb.

Deb’s safety mats, the pole-o-mat can be ordered via

http://www.poleomat.com/
http://www.polepassion.com/

http://www.misspoledance-uk.com/

Mr Pole Fitness UK championships

Pole Passion & Pole FX Presents ~ Mr Pole Fitness UK Championships 2009

Mr Pole Fitness UK 2009:

Open Amateur & Pro Championships

Due to the huge popularity of Miss Pole Dance UK Competitions and World Pole Sport & Fitness championships and it’s professionalism, Pole Passion is pleased to present Mr Pole Fitness Championships, with Adam Jay from Pole FX .
This competition is designed for all males enthusiastic about pole and its techniques. We are finding there is slowly an increase in males who are willing to have a go. We are proud to offer the opportunity to show case their art of pole to all, in a none judgmental and unbiased environment.

Application forms and more information will be available very soon along with the adapted Rules and Regulations.

There will be one category:

A: Promoting Pole Fitness Synchronised doubles will be available as a show case, subject to demand

The Mr Pole Fitness UK 2009 Championships will be held on Sunday 4th October 2009
From 2.30pm onwards along side the Miss Pole Dance UK amateur championships (Now in its second year)

at Olympos Gym,
Triangle Way,
Burgess Hill,
West Sussex,
RH15 8WA


Full details of the competition
please do not hesitate to contact us at: theteam@passion-fitness.com http://www.polepassion.com/

There will be two poles used for the competition: 3 metres high

Open to all male students and male pole enthusiasts.

Please do not forget to let us know which pole school you may like to represent.
There will be pre auditions to control standards and safety

Prizes will be awarded to the three finalists, along with the knowledge of holding the prestigious International title of Mr Pole Fitness UK 2009 award.

Sponsors

We would like to continue to thank our current sponsors for supporting Pole Fitness in its entirety, enabling the standards and professionalism of Miss Pole Dance UK & Mr Pole Fitness UK to continue.

For more details on sponsoring please contact us on

Tel: 0871 318 3838

http://www.r-polefitness.com/


http://www.misspoledance-uk.com/

- Miss Pole Dance UK 2008 amatuer and Professional

http://www.worldpoledance.com/

- World Pole Sport & Fitness Jamaica 2009


Empowerment confidence fitness & FUN!

Miss Pole Dance Hungary ~ Professional competition 2009

Pole Passion supporting Miss Pole Dance Hungary

Miss Pole Dance Professional
Hungary 2009

Saturday 12th September 2009- 2nd National competition

International Pole Judges

Alma Pirner - Head judge & organiser
Kay Penney - United Kingdom accompanied by Debbie Merchant from Pole Passion
Sabrina Pankow - Germany accompanied by Marcel
Miss Pole Dance Hungary - 2008 last years winner - Ágnes Kollarik

Contestants

Ÿ Winner - Betty Kollar Age 31 3 years pole experience with her choreographed routine to firehouse: Don’t walk away
Ÿ Runner up - Linda Jelinkó
Ÿ Third place - Heni Kiss

Additional awards

Best tricks - Betty Kollar
Best entertainer - Sasváry Orsolya
Best Outfit - Linda Jelinko

Linda Jelinkó age 30

Dance routine to thriller x 2 dance troup Orbán Andrea/Dávid Betty

Melitta Honeycup age 24 - disqualified in third minute of her routine after failed costume


Gold outfits Salsa routine x 2 dance troup Lovászi Orsolya

Heni Kiss

Can can routine x 2 dance troup Dávid Betty/Siklós Edina

Betty Kollar age 31 -

Rumba duo to Halo (Nemesváry Krisztina-Dienes Attila)

Orsi Sasváry age 27 -


2 x contestants injured

Slyvia - pole cleaner

Sponsors

Dollhouse Pole Dance and Fitness Studio
(Organisors & trophies, medals, tiaras, sashes, flowers, Shows/IDOLLS)

SYMBOL Budapest
(place of the event)

PORSCHE/Tatabánya
(test driving for a weekend with a Passat CC)

Infernal concepts
(website for the winner)

Roxy Radio
(advertising the MPDH for 3 weeks before the event, every day 4 times)

C.Compass
(business trainings)

Teaser
(shoes for the first 3 places)

Kővári Zoltán
(A pole for the winner with her name on it)


Special thanks to Pole Passion for supporting the competition with rules and regulations and their judging criteria.

http://www.polepassion.com/

Pole Passion Presents Astra Beck's Aerial Silks & Hoop Workshop

Pole Passion Presents: Astra Beck's Aerial Silks & Hoop Workshops
On Saturday 14th November 2009 Pole passion will be hosting a fabulous workshop in aerial silks and Hoop. The workshop will be run by Astra Beck. The workshop will be held at Taylors Retreat in Surrey.

Event details:
11am-1pm 2 Hour Taster in Aerial Silk
2pm-4pm 2 Hour Taster in Aerial Hoop
Cost: £55 each lesson or £100 for the two sessions

What to Wear: Comfortable training clothing that covers the legs and stomach. Bare feet or Ballet/Jazz shoes. Ankle supports and leg warmers can also be of benefit. No jewellery is to be worn.

Astra has been working in the circus entertainment industry for the last nine years as an aerialist and circus performer. Specialising in aerial hoop and silks but also skilled at static trapeze, doubles trapeze, rope and cloudswing. she is now hoping to pass on her knowledge of the aerial arts to anyone who is interested in learning. She is also a qualified yoga teacher and has discovered a love of teaching during recent years through teaching pole dancing for fun, fitness and confidence.
Astra will be teaching 2 hour workshop tasters in hoop and silks as a try out session leading to a possible six week course for those who may be interested to learn these skills in more depth. These will be suitable for beginners. No previous experience is expected but enthusiasm and ability to do an unassisted pull up and inversions will definitely help as this class will be challenging.

Hoop and silks are classic pieces of circus aerial equipment. During a taster session we will learn how to use the equipment safely and learn a routine covering some basic moves.
During a follow on - six week course, subject to availability, the student will learn a more developed routine using tricks, drops, rolls, holds and transitions that will eventually be put to music and performed in the last session.

Benefits: You will develop core strength (particularly in the upper body and stomach regions), flexibility, agility, confidence and a new skill!

There has been a lot of interest for this first workshop of its kind at Taylor's Retreat so we anticipate spaces will selling fast … so hurry hurry hurry!

Kay & The Pole Passion team x

To book this session please contact Natasha at Pole Passion on 0871 318 3838 or alternatively email theteam@polepassion.com

http://www.polepassion.com/

Miss Pole Dance UK 2008 Champion ~ Alesia Vazmitsel Master Class

On Saturday 22nd August Alesia offered an intense 2 hour Master Class teachings to students from across the UK

Alesia who is currently Miss Pole Dance UK Champion 2008 demonstrated and shared her flexible moves, transitions, tricks and poses.

The Official R-Pole Launch

Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August 2009

The Official R-Pole launch at Taylor's Retreat in Surrey being the first R Pole studio in the World (a converted 300 year old barn) boasting 4 meter high poles combining the static and spinning versions of the Revolutionary floor to ceiling R-Poles with the free standing studio version portable poles available too.

http://www.r-polefitness.com/

Now available in your garden

Now available in the sea and on the beach!!

In the studio!! :)

Please email theteam@passion-fitness.com for more information and discounts available for studio owners and professional pole instructors and schools worldwide.

The Official UK Felix Tour 2009

August 2009 Pole Passion Presents

The Official UK Felix Tour

World Pole Sport and Fitness Champion 2009

http://www.polepassion.com/

http://www.r-polefitness.com/

In just six grueling days Felix covered the length and breadth of the UK in her first official Master Class UK tour ~ supported by her Pole Passion Team, Kay & Steve Penney, Debbie Merchant, Natasha Clarke and the amazing Deb Riley Miss Pole Dance UK champion 2006/7/8

www.polepassion.com

www.misspoledance-uk.com

www.r-polefitness.com

www.felixpoledancing.com

Felix Master Classes

Pole Passion Presents:

The Official Felix UK Tour 2009

Having accepted our invitation with only 4 weeks to prepare, the first Official Tour ever to take place for the World Pole Sport & Fitness Champion - Felix Cane begun

Day 1 - Milton Keynes Wednesday 5th August 2009 – Emily Hill - Emily’s Vertical Art
At 10.30am Wednesday morning Felix arrived in Milton Keynes train station having found her own way there after visiting relatives in London after her arrival in London on Monday evening. Deb Merchant and Deb Riley met Felix again and the lovely Emily of Emily’s Vertical Art and Pippa Caesar. The local Milton Keynes radio station showed up for an interview!
The first 1-2-1 session started at 11.30, with Gemma, she said: “Felix is amazing and so talented the pure strength, she has is breathtaking.”
They went on to have a photo shoot and interview with the Citizen newspaper 12.30pm.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/threecounties/content/articles/2009/08/06/people_felix_cane_feature.shtml

The next 1-2-1 at 12.30pm was with Louise and Emily, they said: “Best thing ever static V to windmill Mimi named after me!”
Next was the Group Master Class workshop at 2pm, it was fantastic, we have never heard so much laughter come out of a Pole workshop. Thanks to all the girls who made the workshop such fun!
“Thank you so much for today and had an amazing time and managed to learn some new moves I never thought I would get”
Next was a 1-2-1 with Stacy and Kat at 4.30pm, they said, “I had a great time and felt very challenged and would definitely do it again.”
To finish such an amazing day Felix then did a Meet and Greet which started with photo opportunities and autograph signing, she signed everything! Including a pair of pants! Then there was a question and answer session, every single person asked a question! Amazing.
She then did a “breathtaking performance”.
There was then some time to chat too with Felix.
Here are some quotes from some of the girls at the meet and greet.
“Absolute honour to see you dance”
“Felix has such a warm personality”
“She is an inspiration to the pole world”
Felix, Deb and Deb left Milton Keynes about 8.30pm to drive to Bristol and Felix had a well earned snooze in the car on the way!

Day 2 – Bristol Thursday 6th August 2009 - Claire Whyat - Pole Progression
Having stayed in a hotel in Bristol the first day was very long. Bristol too was a very long day
Everyone rose nice and early, went down for a lovely cooked breakfast, Felix had scrambled eggs and cereal. We all wondered to Toni & Guys hair salon where Felix had her hair cut, it looks fab!
We arrived at the Bristol studio 11.45am where met the lovely Claire from Pole Progression.
Felix then had a photo shoot with James followed by an interview.
Courtesy of Motion Stop factory
The first lesson of the day was with Hayley – whose boyfriend booked her 1-2-1 as a surprise, how lovely!
The group master class started at 2pm, everyone was really nervous but Felix soon put everyone at ease by doing a fun warm up, to get everyone in the mood.
Annie and Sharn then had a 1-2-1 with Felix, Sharn almost got the Spatchcock which was amazing!!!
The last lesson of the day was with Sminxie, followed by a nice long drive to Stoke. Bring on day 3!!!!

Day 3 Liverpool Friday 7th August 2009 - Anna Rosser - Ioisis
This is where Kay & Steve joined the crew travelling up to Liverpool. This was Felixs most challenging and gruelling day. The day was very warm and the studio was in a purpose built studionon the fifth floor of a warehouse.
Felix commented it was probably the best studio she had ever been in and we had to agree – With 10 floor to ceiling poles with a combination of static and spinning poles the participants worked hard and absorbed as much as they could from Felix. There was even room for the R-Pole for everyone to spin on, test and try. Also plenty of room for the silks ropes hoops and trapeze we wanted to live there!!
This had to be the longest day for Felix 11.15 – 11pm wow she made it!! Just Yet still looking glamorous and relaxed until the final moments where we still had to prize her from all the wonderful ladies of Liverpool.
The special raffle prize was won with such delight as such a signed photo would be priceless.

Day 4 Glasgow Saturday 8th August 2009 – Julie Manning - Independent Pole Fitness
A later start time in Glasgow was scheduled as travelling was long, yet surprisingly easy with nice and clear empty roads and beautiful breathtaking scenery. The stop off at the Scottish café was fun with Deb and Felix being ‘ Jimmies’ and practicing their best Scottish accents (about 7!) became the popular phrase meaning they didn’t have a clue what was being said to them!!
Kay missing the entrance sign to Scotland on camera didn’t go down too well with Steve who had never stepped foot on Scottish turf before Hey ho!! There’s always next year.
A very warm welcome from the girls from Independent Pole fitness and with minutes to spare Felix was adjusting herself to yet another pole studio – 8 floor to ceiling poles she begun her shorter day.
Again, lots of tips and techniques, fun and friendliness it was soon time to leave – too short really but she had to be back down in Manchester for Day 5 of her training. Easy travelling back down to Stoke for a rest and refuel!
The only disaster of the tour struck on this afternoon – a distressing call to state the venue was unable to hold Felix’s Master Classes! With very little notice the Felix team set to work to find an alternative venue with hours to spare!! Luckily with our network of friends we were saved by the wonderful Jenny Galagher from Vive Studio in Rawtenstall only about 12 miles from the original scheduled studio.
With some quick thinking and lots of phone calls they saved the day. The students were amazing understanding and all was well.

Day 5 Manchester Sunday 9th August 2009 - Jenny Galagher – Vibe studio
Early rising to be at Vive studio and reassuringly met by Jen who rescheduled her whole day to accommodate Felix.
At this venue Felix’s family came to watch her some of which she had never met – Felix was nervous, we think for the first time of the tour. Aunts, uncles cousins and her husband, Chris came to watch her performance. Unfortunately due to the cancellation she was unable to offer her arranged meet & greet however managed to phone the disappointed girls personally and send them signed items as an apology due to conditions out of our hands.
Felix left the team to meet her best UK mate for the evening to travel to Sussex to arrive in the morning of the 10th.
Goodbyes we had between Deb Riley and Felix – a close bond and friendship and support from Deb had to part. Reluctantly they said goodbye

Day 6 Sussex Monday 10th August 2009 - Kay Penney - Pole Passion
At the final date of the tour there seemed to be renewed energy from the team, back on home ground however in a brand new never been used studio – the realisation of the tour was apparent and yet over so soon?
The wonderful ‘R-Pole’ studio, the first in the country with the capability of 15 poles, boasting probably the pole studio with the most amount of poles in the country incorporating the new revolutionary R-Poles with a 38mm diameter easier grip and 50mm grip poles all with the capability of spinning and static - all at 4 metres competition height!!
Yet another professional photo shoot thanks to James and R-Pole. Master classes begun with exceptionally high music and fun intense warm ups.
Hand springs, butterflies Scorpios static V’s into leg hangs. Felix even had a go of a new move herself!! She shared her techniques on spinney poles too.
The day ended with intense 1-2-1’s with students travelling as far as France and then her last and final meet & greet and performance. With the raffle prize signed photo going to Zoe.
Felix then reluctantly said her goodbyes as we rushed her off (1 hour later than schedules due to her not wanting to go) to the train station to yet again meet with friends before her flight back to Las Vegas and back to work!
Certainly a whirl wind tour incredibly supported by the amazing Deb Riley (Pole Queens), Deb Merchant (pole Passion) Steve Penney (Pole Passion) Kay Penney (Pole Passion) and all the venue and pole school operators.
An excitable flurry of well wishes and comments have been shown on facebook and directly to Pole Passion –
She was presented with her well wishes guest book which she will treasure we are sure

Some of the many comments to Felix
Hi Felix
It was an honour seeing you dance and getting to know more about you.
It was amazing how much you have achieved in such a short time pole dancing and yet you are so down to earth, I have never tried pole dancing before and you have truly inspired me to give it a go thanks for the experience – Liverpool meet and greet
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Hello!
It was an absolute honour to see you dance before my eyes, I’m looking forward to more pole lesson off you tomorrow and Friday. I simply can not wait to learn from the best – lots of love Annie Norris Miss Pole Dance finalist 2005
I had an amazing time my legs hurt and I will have the handspring – thank you so much xx Stacey
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Hi Felix - Totally blown away by you so talented and so BENDY jealous muchly!! Ha ha sorry I cant make one of your master classes but am so so happy that I had the privilege of meeting you tonight. May even make it to Vegas to see you perform with Cirque. Thank you so much for the photos they are so going up in a huge frame Lover Karen S x
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Dear Felix
Can’t explain what an honour it is to even be in the same room as you, let alone on the same pole – you are a total goddess and my inspiration beautiful amazing and super talented thank you so much for today Lucy xxx
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Felix
WOW! You are amazing and never fail to inspire with your grace on the pole x really looking forward to seeing you and Chris in Jamaica in 2010. xxx Steve
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Felix thanks for a wicked day here in Glasgow we all had great fun and learned so much from your workshop when I’m in Vegas ill come and say hi Love Julie
I still think I am speechless – this has to be the most amazing experience ever!! I am in total awe and in the first hour I feel I have learnt so much even enough though I am not as strong in my body as I wish! But Felix is Just AMAZING, so friendly so easy to ask a question no matter how silly thank you so much for this once in a life time fantastic opportunity (still star struck and speechless – I love the Felix opportunity xxxxxx mwah xxxxxx
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Felix the firecracker – awesome - love your dancing and you’re an inspiration I will try harder Keep doing it till you 80!! Or your bones give up! Great to meet you and see you love Claire xx
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Wow Felix - we love you J you are so nutty and down to earth your such an inspiration thank you for coming to EVA hope to be as good as you soon Great to meet you Love Juicy Lucy xx
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Absolutely fantastic lesson – got everything I wanted love tfelix and her craziness! Thank you fso much I watch you all the time with great admiration and this has been a very special experience for me thanks Hayley xx
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Hey Felix – Thanks for getting me to take my hand off the inverted splits woop woop!! Champion day loved it now inspired lots of love Justine xx
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Dear Felix - We really hope you had an amazing time ~ our aim has to inspire, empower, build confidence both for body and mind and we feel you achieved this to so many. We hope you felt this too – you have touched the lives of so many people over the last 6 days in class and out, you have not only been an amazing inspiration but such a beautiful person too. Bringing tears to many eyes some which you did not see – Many many thanks and looking forward to play and, do we call it work?? ‘work’ again soon - all my love Kay Penney x

for more Master Classes contact Pole Passion

www.polepassion.com

Tel: 0871 318 3838

email: theteam@polepassion.com