Fitness Friday's: Leg Circles!!

Aloha Polers, it's FINALLY FRIDAY!!!!  And it's also Fitness Fridays as well:)!  Today's Fitness Friday's topic is actually a great Pilates move called Leg Circles!  Leg Circles will benefit you by strengthening your legs and increase mobility in your hips.  For this move you will need a mat to lay on since it starts on your back and....hmmm........you!  Both check, let's get started!

1. Start laying on your back with your spine in a neutral position and both legs extended straight on the floor.  Make sure that your back is not arched and also not pressed against the floor.  The neutral position for your spine is when it is right between arched and touching the floor.  In the neutral spine position your should be able to slide your hand right under the middle of your back.
2. Lift the left leg straight up towards the ceiling as if pointing to the clouds.
3. Breathe naturally as you make or draw a circle with your left leg.
4. Continue to breathe naturally as you lower your leg leg back to the floor.
5. Breathe naturally and lift your right leg into the air pointing towards the ceiling.
6. Breathe naturally as you draw circles on the ceiling with your toes.
7. Draw 10 circles with each leg.

During this move make sure to keep your leg straight.  If you cannot have your leg completely perpendicular to the floor, it is okay to have it at an angle or a bit lower.

Have fun with this move and have a great Friday!

Tippy Thursday's: Flexibility!

Aloha Polers, it's Thursday!!!

This week's Tippy Thursday's Tip is on Flexibility!  Flexibility is such a huge and very important aspect in Pole Fitness and you wouldn't know that until getting into it!  flexibility is also one of the hardest things to gain which takes a lot of dedication and time.

If you have never worked on your Flexibility or haven't really had stretching as part of your daily routine than it's about time to get it added!!!  When it comes to stretching and working on your Flexibility, it is VERY IMPORTANT to not push yourself too hard because this can definitely lead to pain and even injuries that can keep you from the pole!  When starting off with stretching and working Flexibility training into your routine, always start off at the point where you are at.  If you decide to start off by taking a beginners Yoga class remember to focus on you and not Miss Bendability next to you with her two feet back up around her head!  Everyone is different and has had or has not had experience in stretching and Flexibility.  Keep that in mind and stay where you are at and if you feel comfortable in that stretch intensify it a little by going deeper.  If you have the time, to tremendously change and improve your Flexibility about one hour a day is best.  Everyone doesn't have time for one hour of Flexibility training so however you can fit it in do it!  Here are some stretching and Flexibility training tips:

1. The best time to really stretching and train for flexibility is after a hot shower of when your muscles are nice and warm.  When your body is still cold you are more prone to injury so keep this in mind.  
2. While stretching and during your Flexibility training, keep hydrated!  This is very important as well.  Although you don't feel like you should be drinking water it is important because during Flexibility training you are getting a workout....you will know this once you get started;)!
3. A good mat or good flooring is always a good idea when you are stretching.
4. Make sure to breath!  Focus on your breathing as this will more likely take your mind off the 'feeling' or 'sensations' going through your body when intensely stretching.
5. Stay positive!  Again, if you are starting off and are no progressing quickly, keep it up!  Gaining Flexibility can take a while depending on when you started, how extensive of a background you may have, etc.  So, this will not be immediate fir everyone.  You will get there will hard work and dedication;)!

If you have NO IDEA where to start, starting off in a beginners Yoga class is ideal because there is a trained instructor there that can catch any mistakes before forming them yourself.  Once you feel comfortable you can move on to your own personal training.  There are also a lot of different Flexibility training DVD's that you can utilize such as Felix Cane's Flexibility DVD within her DVD set, Alethea Austin has a couple, and much more!

So, get your Flexibility on and stay positive!!!

What's in the Pole World News Wednesday's: Pole Art 2012!

Aloha Poley Polers!

This Wednesday's Pole World News topic is the recent Pole Art 2012!!!  A lot of us know that the much anticipated Pole Art Competition was this weekend and there were SO MANY great performances by all of our favorite Polefessionals!  But, unfortunately, even with all the AWESOME talent there could only be one male and one female winner.

The winner of the Female division in the Pole Art 2012 is:

Oona Kivela!

The winner of the Male division of the Pole Art 2012 is:

Check out our You Tube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv5vX4w50MoWEz319fW0MiQ?feature=mhee to see more Pole Art 2012 performances as well as the winning ones!

Have a great Wednesday!

Technique Tuesday's: Fan Kick!!!

Aloha Wonderful Polers:)!

This week's Technique Tuesday's move is the Fan Kick! The Fan Kick is an awesome move for many reasons mostly because it looks GREAT when you got it down;)!  The Fan Kick can be used starting with your feet on the floor, from the middle of the pole, from the floor as a transition into other moves and so much more.  The Fan Kick works your lats, delts, biceps, abs, quads and shoulders!  If you have done the Pull Up Crunch this should come a bit easier.  Let's get into it:

Begin standing with your left side towards the pole and on your tippy toes.  Place your arms in the Strong Hold position.  From here reach your inside leg back a little and start to bring that leg up while sweeping the floor and pointing to the right side of the room.  When your left (inside leg) gets to about 12 o'clock your right leg (outside leg) will lift off the floor and follow the left legs path with sweeping the floor, pointing to the right side of the room and then on the 12 o'clock.  At one point your legs should be in a straddle position in the air right before the outside leg goes to 12 o'clock and the inside leg has just left 12 o'clock:).  Your left leg should then reach the floor with your right leg to follow.  When ending this move you may find yourself completely turned away from the pole and at first this is normal until you get used to the move and can control it at that point.

Pointers:

• Practice this move with straight legs right from the start to help you strengthen your legs.
• Don't worry about bringing your legs so high durning this move.  Work on keeping your legs straight at which ever height you can keep it at.
• Point your toes!  Pointing your toes will help your legs stay straight:).
• Don't rush!  Rushing this move can hurt and eve cause injury.  Take your time:).
• Always practice on both sides:)
• Always start with a spotter for safety and once you are comfortable go for it!
• Breath!

There are many variations and modifications to this move which makes it such an important and awesome move to master!  Have fun with it and change it up.

Have a great Tuesday!!

Motivational Monday's!!

Aloha Polers!  Darn, Monday already!?!

Came across this and couldn't think of a better day to post it:

We are only put through things that we can conquer so believe in yourself and push through!

Have a happy and motivated Monday!!!

Stretchy Sunday's: Ardha Chandrasana!

Aloha Polers, it's Sunday!

This week's Stretchy Sunday's Stretch is the wonderful and simple yoga stretch called the Ardha Chandrasana.  This is a great stretch that will benefit and stretch out your obliques on both sides, majority of your back muscles, shoulders and neck.  This is a great stretch to incorporate into everyday at anytime.  I like doing this stretch when I've been sitting in you position all day or when I'm about to get my pole in;)!  Let's get to it:

Start this stretch standing up straight with your hands clasped above your heads making sure your arms are aligned with your ears with your shoulders rolled back and down.  Take a deep breath and bend your torso to the left pointing your fingers towards the left of the room.  Stay in this stretch for about 5 - 8 seconds and go back to your starting position.  Repeat for both sides.  You will know when you have bent to far to the side when your feel more pain than stretch.  If you feel more pain, please adjust so you feel more of a stretch to get the most out of this stretch.

That's it!  Simple yet very beneficial:)!

Have a great Stretchy Sunday!!!

Polefessional Saturday's: Zoraya Judd!!!

Aloha Polers, it's Saturday!!!

This week's Polefessional is Zoraya Judd!

Zoraya is such a positive, motivational and inspirational Polefessional with such a warmness to her!  She gives the best hugs too!!!  She is a mother as well as an instructor with years of personal training and teaching experience.  After becoming an instructor, Zoraya was entered into the first ever Utah Pole Competition without even knowing it with 2 weeks to train for it!  When she found out she was entered into this competition she freaked out!  With only the 2 weeks to train she trained like she has never trained losing skin on her knees!  Zoraya went on to win first place in the advanced division in the first ever competition!  She then took off from there receiving her Pro status at her next competition and then becoming apart of Zen Arts.  Zoraya also has become known as one of the top ten pole dancers in the world after winning the International Pole Art Championships in 2011.  She is such an accomplished woman that motivates so many to reach for their goals.  As Zoraya says, "Find something you are passionate about and CONQUER IT."

When we meet Zoraya at the 2012 International Pole Convention the first thing she did was give us the best hug ever!  She showed so much appreciation of our support for her which is what we were trying to do because she has (even though we have never meet) motivated us in many ways!  She was such a sweetie and very down to earth!  I haven't had the pleasure of taking a workshop from her but hope I will in the future!

Have a great Saturday!

Fitness Friday's: Swimming!

Aloha Polers, yes, it is FINALLY FRIDAY!!

This week's Fitness Friday's topic is Swimming!  Swimming is a great way for you to get a great and low impact work out while being refreshed the whole time:)!  Not only is this a low impact sport or exercise that puts little stress on the joints it is also a heart pumping cardiovascular workout that builds endurance and helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels!  You ever notice how much harder it is to walk or run in the water?  Resistance!!  The resistance of the water forces your body to work harder to complete each movement toning your biceps, triceps, back, chest abs and leg muscles!  That's why all these professional swimmers look so awesome!  usually very lean and muscular:)!  If you are like me, I really do not like swimming for exercise because I am horrible at it!  The hardest part about learning to properly and efficiently swim is getting down your breathing while swimming.  Professional swimmers recommend:

1. Start off swimming in the shallow end of the pool
2. Inhale
3. Put your face under water and exhale through both your mouth and nose
4. Come back out of the water and inhale through your mouth and nose
5. Repeat until you feel comfortable

You may not feel comfortable right away and that's ok too as everyone is different in how their body reacts and gets used to certain things.  After you have the breathing part down you are ready to take on some laps!  As a beginner myself I usually either swim with the back stroke or the side stroke or oh so famous front stroke.  Once these are a lot easier for you move on to something more challenging like the butterfly or free style strokes.  Some things recommended to have if planning on swimming are:

1. Swim cap:  Must be fitted to keep your hair in place inside of it.  It will reduce the lag or drag while swimming and will help protect your hair from the chemicals of the pool.
2. Goggles:  These will help protecting your eyes when and if opened under water from the chemicals as well.
3. Sunscreen:  You won't realize it but during the day you can get sun burnt quick!
4. Water bottle:  Although you can;t tell, you are still sweating from the workout under water which means you must stay safe and hydrated!

Swimming for a workout does not have to be done in a pool.  If you have a lake or ocean near you give it a try there just keep in mind the conditions and amount of people already there:).  Well, if you don't or haven't already give this a try, you may fall in love:)

Have a great Friday!!

Tippy Thursday's: Cleaning your Pole!!

Aloha Polers, it's Thursday!

This week's Tippy Thursday's Tip is on cleaning your pole!  Cleaning your pole or the pole you use at your local studio is VERY IMPORTANT!  It is very important for all the following reasons:

• when you use the pole you tend to sometimes sweat which usually releases body oils and sometimes dead skin cells which can turn into a bad situation for the next user.
• uncleaned pole can make it difficult for certain moves.

The most recommended cleaner for poles is Rubbing Alcohol.  Rubbing Alcohol always cleans the pole without leaving any reside which can cause the same issue as a dirty pole can.  The best way to use Rubbing Alcohol as a cleaner is to put it in a spray bottle, spray the Rubbing Alcohol on a towel and then wipe the pole clean.  

Keep your pole clean for the best results;)!

Have a great Thursday!

What's in the Pole World News Wednesday's: Paralympics!

Aloha Polers, it's Wednesday!

This week's What's in the Pole World News topic are the Paralympics!  For those who don't know what the Paralympics are it is almost like the Olympics but for people with impairments such as amputated limbs, hearing impairments, etc.  The very first Paralympic Games were held in 1960 in Rome, Italy with 400 featured participants!  This is a great thing that is out there and we support it completely.  All people should be able to competitively compete in a sport if they really want to:)!  To read more on the history of Paralympics or learn more about the sport go to this link for the International Paralympic Committee:

http://www.paralympic.org/TheIPC/HWA/HistoryoftheMovement

Now, what does the Paralympics have to do with Pole?  Just like many Pole Dancer are fighting for Pole to become apart of the Olympics, there is some word that Pole may also be apart of the Paralympics!  Our friends at United Pole Artists posted this great article from blind pole dancer Heather Siewruk about just that:

http://www.unitedpoleartists.com/pole-dancing-and-the-paralympics/

Read more on Heather's take about getting Pole Dancing into the Paralympics as well as the Olympics!

Have a happy Wednesday!!!

Technique Tuesday's: Dip!

Aloha Polers, it's Technique Tuesday's!!!

This week's Technique Tuesday's move is the dip!  Some of us use the dip ,some of us have done it once in our pole dancing lives and some of us make combos with the dip.  The dip is a great move you can use as a transitional move and it is also a preparation for other moves such as spins and pirouettes.  Let's get to it:

Start off by doing your pole walk.  When you are ready make sure your inside leg is taking a step then slightly bend your inside leg's knee while pushing your hips away from the pole and positioning your body so you are facing the pole.  As you are positioning yourself to face the pole bring your outside leg around and slightly bend that knee.  right at that moment you should look like you are in a squatting or sitting position.  Throughout the dip your inside arm will remain on the pole.

And that's the dip!  Once you get the hang of the dip you can use it to transition into spins and pirouettes!  Those are fun combos;)!  Well have fun!

Motivational Monday's!

Aloha Polers, it's Motivational Mondays!!

Walt Disney couldn't have said it any better, "If you can dream it, you can do it."

So dream big and go get 'um!

Have a great Monday!

Stretchy Sunday's: Marichyasana!

Aloha Polers, it's Sunday!!!

This week's Stretchy Sunday's Stretch is the Marichyasana!  This is a beginner's level Yoga pose you do on both sides.  You will feel this stretch throughout your whole back as well as your neck.  Let's get to it:

Left Side:

Sit up straight with your legs straight in front of you on the floor.  Bend your left leg and put your left foot by your right knee keeping your left foot on the left side of your right knee.  Bend your right arm and move your right elbow behind your left leg near your left knee.  Press your left hand against the floor behind your back.  Twist your back bone to the left around it's axis as you exhale while turning your head to the left as well.

Right Side:

Sit up straight with your legs straight in front of you on the floor.  Bend your right leg and put your right foot by your left knee keeping your right foot on the right side of your left knee.  Bend your left arm and move your left elbow behind your right leg near your right knee.  Press your right hand against the floor behind your back.  Twist your back bone to the right around it's axis as you exhale while turning your head to the right as well.

While doing this stretch please try to focus on your breath.  Inhale and exhale while going into the stretch.  Also engage your core and try not to slouch as it could complicate the stretch and you will not feel the stretch where you should.  Like all moves, if this does not feel good and you are in pain please stop.  Only do this move if you are able to and you feel a nice stretch with no pain.

This is a great stretch to add to your routine that will benefit you greatly!

Have a great Stretchy Sunday!!

Polefessional Saturday's: Cleo The Hurricane!!!!

Aloha Polers, it's Saturday!!

This week's Polefessional is the Rockin' Cleo The Hurricane!

Cleo is an inspiration in so many ways!  Not only is she an awesome Pole Dancer but she is also in a band called Leopard Nation as their Drummer and Vocalist!  She is a Rock n' Roll freak and brings that to the pole when she performs.  She has such energy and strength when she performs and looks like she LOVES what she is doing because she does!  She has won titles such as 2012 Miss Pole Dance Australia Championship, 2012 Miss Pole Dance NSW and 2011 Miss Pole Dance Australia (2nd)!  In 2010, Cleo up and moved to Sydney to teach at the well known Bobbi's Pole Studio where she was given the nickname of Cleo "The Hurricane" after developing a unique pole power style.  She lives up to her nickname every time she performs and rocks the stages each time as well!

We were very lucky to have taken one of her workshops during the 2012 LA International Pole Convention!  Cleo was so awesome!  We had a nice warm up and got right to business!  She taught us her famous scissor kicks (totally still working on those!), her newest trick the Steel Panther (she says you need balls of steel for and she was right!) and a couple of other awesome moves!  She was very helpful to all the students there and helped when needed.  I loved that she had us free style to a rock song at the end of the class!

If you haven't had the chance to watch Cleo perform in person, on You Tube or at a workshop make it happen!  Like her site says, "She is a force to be reckoned with" and you want to reckon her!!  She will inspire you:)

As Cleo would says, "Rock n' Pole!"

Fitness Friday's: Fuel Your Body!

Aloha Polers, it is finally Friday!!!!

This week's Fitness Friday's topic is Fueling your Body!  Keeping your body fueled is a very important thing to do for everyone and even more so when you are adding any type of physical activity into your routine.  And not just eating any foods but fueling your body with the right food to keep it going and to have the right energy to get through your workouts with a smile:)!  If you are not eating or eating junks you will most likely end up feeling very sluggish, exhausted and unmotivated to get active.  After an unhealthy meal, all you will want to do is go home and sleep or eat some more unhealthy foods or junks.  Do yourself a favor and not only start your day with a well balanced and healthy meal but keep it going throughout the day!  By doing so, you will notice a change in the way you feel towards the middle of your day and even at the end of your day.  You will most likely feel great and even greater after your workout!

Happy Healthy Eating!  Remember, "You take care of your body, your body will take care of you!"

Tippy Thursday's: Be Patient!

Aloha Polers, it's Thursday!!!

This week's Tippy Thursday's Tip is to be patient!  Sounds simple enough but can be one of the hardest things to do!  When you first start anything new project or workout you want to be awesome at it right away.  Because we normally feel this way we automatically push ourselves pretty hard and sometimes pass the level we should have stopped at.  From experience, I now that being patience is not only a virtue but will help you learn things the proper and correct way.  When you rush yourself to learn anything you will not learn all that should be learned and will learn some and more shortcuts to get to the finish.  That is not good!  Being patient and making sure you yourself have it (whatever it is in the situation) down before moving on to the next level with make you a stronger and more knowledgeable person for that.  This does go for anything in life from school work to pole dancing!  Don't you worry your pretty lil` face off, your time will come!  Rushing may cause you injury either right away or even long term when it comes to fitness.

Whatever it is you are doing, make sure to believe in yourself and be patient because when you have the motivation you will get to that place you want to be:)!

Have a great Thursday:)!

What's in the Pole World News Wednesday: Pole Expo Events LIVE STREAMING!!

Aloha Polers, it's Wednesday!

This week's topic is Pole Expo events being Live STREAMED!

The first annual Las Vegas Pole Expo is a must go to event!!  But if you are not able to make it for whatever reason they will be live streaming the events!!!  How lucky, in the comfort of your home you will be able to enjoy all your Fav Polefessionals and their great performances!!!  If you are interested in streaming the events of the Las Vegas Pole Expo such as the Pole Classic Competition and the Pole Star Showcase go to this link on Saturday (September 8th):

http://sandbox.rtechstudio.com/

This will be an event not to be missed whether or not you will be in Las Vegas or at your home!  Gather all your Pole Buddies around and watch the awesomeness!

Happy poling:)!

Technique Tuesday's: Half Roll Back!

Aloha Polers, it's Technique Tuesday!!

This week's Technique Tuesday's move is the Half Roll Back!  This is a great beginner pilates move that stretches the lower back and strengthens your abdominals:)!  Let's get to the move:

You want to start in a seated position with your knees bent and at hip distance apart with your feet on the floor.  Reach your arms straight out in front of you.  Take a nice breath in making sure your spine is elongated.  As you exhale, slowly lower your back as if lowering to the floor but stop half way.  As you are doing this movement back, keep in mind to engage your core by drawing your belly button towards your spine.  From here, take a breath in and return to your starting position.  Repeat this about 10 - 12 times focusing on your breath and engaging that core!

If you feel this move is a bit to easy for you, this move can be easily intensified by adding some minor adjustments.  You can start with one leg off the ground pointing up but keeping both knees aligned with one another, both legs off the ground either in a bent position at first or pointing to the corner of the ceiling, holding light weights in your hands, and much more:)!

What a great move that can be done at all levels and anywhere you want!  Although, if this does not feel good to you and you are in pain, do not keep doing it.  Always honor your body so when you body is in pain this may not be the move for you.  Also, please use a comfy mat as well as this will help with the comfort of the movement.  And most importantly, use your breath and engage your core!  These will help throughout this move as a beginner and when you modify it as well.

Well, give this a try and fit it to your level!  The benefits of this stretch will benefit you in pole dancing!

Have a great Tuesday:)!!

Motivational Monday's!!

Aloha Fabulous Polers, it's Monday!

It's motivation time!!!  Take a look at this:

That is beautiful!  That's enough to motivate me to get on it!!  How about you?!?  Let's do this and start off the week right!

Have a great, positive and productive Monday;)!

Stretchy Sunday's: Cobra Stretch!!

Aloha Polers, it's Sunday!!!

This week's Stretchy Sunday's stretch is the Cobra Stretch!  We all have done the Cobra stretch but are we doing it correct?  Let's see:

Start face down with your stomach on the floor.  Make sure tops of your feet are also on the floor.  Using a yoga mat is recommended for comfort.  From this position of lying on the floor face down place your hands right behind your shoulders keeping your elbows as close to your rib cage as possible.    While taking a deep breathe in, use your hands to press your chest up till it's facing in front of you, your head is looking up with your shoulders back and down, arms straight but not hyper extended and pelvis, thighs and knees off the ground.  It would help to imagine and arch in your back to get the best out of this stretch.  Clear your mind and think about your body.  When you are ready to exhale, slowly move your body back in the beginning position as if retracing your steps getting into the Cobra pose.

Repeat if desired or needed:)

From beginning till end of the Cobra pose make sure to engage!  Engage your core!  If you are engaging your core this pose will feel the best:).

Benefits of the Cobra Stretch:

• Stretches muscles in the shoulders, chest and abdominals:)
• Decreases stiffness in the lower back:)
• Strengthens the arms and shoulders:)
• Increases flexibility:)
• Improves menstrual irregularities:)
• Elevates mood:)
• Firms and tones the buttocks:)
• Invigorates the heart:)
• Relieves stress and fatigue:)
• Improves digestion:)
• Strengthens the spine:)
• Much more:)

This stretch can be done anywhere you have a nice flat and comfortable surface!  This is a great stretch to add into your daily routine:).

Have a great Stretchy Sunday!!!

Polefessional Saturday's: Alethea Austin!

Aloha Polers, it's Saturday alright!

We LOVE Saturday's!  This week's Polefessional is the oohhhh so sexy Alethea Austin!!  

Alethea is an awesome Pole Dancer and Floorwork Extraordinaire!  She definitely brings the sexy into any performance she does with or without a pole!  I wasn't able to take her workshop at the LA International Pole Convention but am signed up for her Las Vegas Pole Expo workshops...both!!!!  I've heard nothing but GREAT things about her workshops and can't wait to take one!  She is such and awesome woman and under that Rock n' Roll shell she is a sweetie!!  Here is her bio straight from her website www.aletheaaustin.com :

Alethea Austin was born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana. Her "Heartland" belly rocker tattoo conveys fond memories of childhood in the rural Midwest. At an early age Alethea found an outlet for her athletic and artistic talents in competitive gymnastics. Determined to pursue a life and career in the visual arts, she left Indiana to attend the Rhode Island School of Design where she focused on interior architecture and photography. She graduated from RISD in 2002 and soon established herself as a young "raw edged" photographer in both the art and print worlds. In 2004 her collaborative work "From Indiana, With Love" was featured in a New York City gallery and exhibited at Indianapolis Museum Of Contemporary Art. Shortly after moving to Los Angeles in the summer of 2005 Alethea was involved in a severe automobile accident that resulted in debilitating neck and shoulder injuries. The next two years of surgeries and physical therapy forced Alethea to put her photography work as a cover and feature photographer for music magazines on hold. Determined to reclaim her body and her creative life, she began pole dancing in 2008 at BeSpun Studio in Los Angeles as an alternative to traditional physical therapy. Her background in gymnastics, her love of dance and the supportive environment of pole dance enthusiasts at BeSpun Studio ensured both a remarkable recovery and a passion for the pole. Within the year Alethea entered her first pole dance competitions to become US Pole Dance Federation Runner Up 2009 and US Pole Dance Federation Miss Sexy 2009. By creating her own unique style of performance that marries fluid movement and raw sensual expression with strength, fierce moves and daring drops, Alethea quickly secured her place as one of the most influential Pole Idols. Today Alethea is recognized worldwide as one of the top Pole Dance instructors and elite competing performers. Her slow controlled flow, flexible lines, isolated body waves, and ability to emote through dance helped her claim the title of US Pole Dance Federation Champion in 2010 are now distinctive elements of her Sexy Flexy style. Alethea's coveted style combines strength and aesthetic imagery with fluid sexiness, as expressed through her choice of music. "I always pick songs that not only move me but that I know will get straight to the audience." She is an Rock'n Roll girl, from her Guns N Roses and Alice In Chains attitude to her "Push Past" tattooed knuckle rockers, Alethea is the true face of American Pole Dance. It is for this reason she was picked to be one of the feature pole dancers in the upcoming movie Rock Of Ages being released in Spring 2012. Her talents, however, are not limited to the Pole stage; she is 100% in charge of her brand, which for her is becoming another creative outlet and is now expanding to include apparel, Dvds and photography. Since her pole debut in 2009 Alethea has performed with some of the world's best pole dancers including Jenyne Butterfly, Felix Cane, and Jamilla Deville. She has traveled extensively teaching workshops and competing while honing her style and signature bad girl sexiness. She has taught in over 150 gyms throughout the world attracting students of every level with her emphasis on flexibility, Sexy Flexy, extension for pole, fluid body isolations, and sensuous dance form. Her background in photography helps her instruction and performance by enabling her to sequentially "freeze frame" the form and line of a dancer's movement. At every point of a performance, her photographer's eye looks for the "beautiful picture." In addition to traveling nationally and internationally teaching workshops, Alethea is also working on a series of Sexy Flexy fitness and Stretching DVDs. Although a highly regarded professional, Alethea is at heart a shy but friendly small-town girl who ultimately pole dances to connect with herself and with other women.

"The overwhelming support from the group of women who do pole is what makes it so special. I've never seen anything like it... pole has been my salvation, not only dancing for myself but teaching others. If you are thinking about trying it please do, you will start to release emotion though dance and music and find strength you never knew you had."

-xo Alethea

Isn't she a sweetie!!!  She is awesome!  She is unbelievably flexible and strong that by watching her performance makes you want to stretch for your splits!!  If you are working on your splits I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND to get Alethea's PURE SPLITS DVD set......it will get you there.  I have been doing it religiously for about 1 month and have already noticed improvements not only with my splits on the floor but in the air too!!  You wouldn't think but there are many ways to work on your splits other than sitting in it and Alethea will teach you in her Pure Splits DVD set:)!!  

We LOVE Alethea and hope you have had or get the chance to watch her perform because she is another one of those life changers!!  If you need motivation watch her and as Alethea would say, "Push Past!"

Have a happy Saturday!

Fitness Friday's: Baby Steps to Gettin' it In!

Aloha Polers, It's Friday!!!

Woohoo!  Finally right?!?  Well, I know how hard it can be waiting for Friday to come!  It's definitely not as hard as trying to add exercise into your routine.  When people think of adding exercise into their routines they automatically think they need to run on the treadmill for 1 hour, do 300 crunches, 100 push-ups, 100 pull-ups and 100 walking lunges to say they worked out.  UNTRUE!!!  Don't freak yourself out or set your goals to high especially when you haven't worked out for a long while.  I've noticed that when people all of a sudden want to work out and get back into the gym they go shopping for new workout clothes (for motivation), buy new shoes (for motivation), buy a new ipod (for motivation), buy a new gym membership, go and workout super hard one day and then never go back! LOL!  It may seem far fetched but I have seen MANY people do exactly just that....ummmmm.....like.........myself!  Rushing into an intense workout routine doesn't work for everyone and definitely does not work for me!  If you are one of these people you need to take Baby Steps to Gettin' It In!  Here are some examples of baby steps:

• Parking your car at the back of the parking lot instead of right in front of your destination:)
• Using an Exercise Ball for a chair at work instead of a desk chair:)
• Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator:)
• Taking a walk during your lunch break instead of staying in your office on FB:)
• Take your poor puppy for more walks a day:)
• Where ankle weights under your jeans:)
• Stop taking short cuts:)
• Do crunches on your Exercise Ball Chair while on the computer checking emails and on the phone:)
• When you drop something pick it up doing a squat:)

So many differently ways you can slowly add exercise into your daily routine.  Believe me, when you start off slow you will start to notice the urge to do more one day and then more the next day!  Before you know it, you are running on the treadmill for an hour everyday and wanting to!  Baby Steps!

Well, have a great Friday and remember......YOU CAN!

Tippy Thursday's: Listen to your Body!

Aloha Polers, it's Thursday!

This weeks Tippy Thursday's Tip is to Listen to your Body!

All of us have our specific health and fitness goals that we want to reach in a specific time frame.  There are times when we have a minor injury, had a very stressful day, are very exhausted and do not know why, etc yet we still push ourselves to do things to reach our specific goals.  Some times this is great but in most cases don't forget that your body needs rest whether or not you are taking a complete day off to relax or switching to a less intense type of workout for the day your body will thank you.  Your body needs rest and recovery time and if not given that it will get burnt out and you will find workout's getting harder when they should be getting easier.  Minor injuries can turn into injuries that may prevent you from working out at all.  Listen to your body when it says it's time to relax.  It is recommended to give your body at least one full day of rest to recover and prevent burning yourself out.  We all know that burnt out feeling and I personally hate it especially when I have a goal in mind:).  Your body is smart and knows what's best!  Just think about it, it never skips a beat, a breath, etc.

Have a great Thursday and Listen to your Bodies!!!

What's New in the Pole World Wednesday's: Sunscreen & Pole Dancing!?!

Aloha Polers, it's Wednesday!!

This week's What's New in the Pole World Wednesday's topic is Sunscreen & Pole Dancing?!?!  I know your thinking, "What?!?  Not together?!?"  That is exactly what I thought but saw proof!

I know your thinking, "Okay, Jenyne Butterfly Pole Dancing..what does that have to do with Sunscreen & Pole Dancing???"  Recently Jenyne posted on Facebook this photo along with this message, "  NEW "grip tease" pole!!! Non-slip, no grips needed, no cleaning or wiping necessary, and you can wear sunscreen!"  I was immediately interested!  Being from Hawai`i and having those days where the humidity is ridiculous or those extra hot days I wished I had A/C or those days I want to take my Stand Alone Pole to the beach ..... this is awesome!  I immediately emailed in and inquired.  I got a response back very quickly from the person who makes the product.  His name is Mat Daniels and explained that Jenyne is trailing his product for him at the moment.  He also said that the product has been used in the Australian Circus Schools for 3 years with great results!  Unfortunately, the sleeves for the poles are not sold separately since they have an involved process to get the rubber on.  He said that he is having anyone that is interested send in their XPOLE (it is only for XPOLE's at the moment). If you are interested, please email in at griptease@gmail.com for more information:).

New products coming out are getting crazier!!  Well, that's all the information I have for now but when more comes I'll blog it!

Have a great Wednesday!

Technique Tuesday's: Peek-a-Boo!

Aloha Polers, it's Tuesday!!

This week's Technique Tuesday's move is the Peek-a-Boo!  This is a very simple and fun move but can be done to make it easier for you;)!  The Peek-a-Boo is usually used as a transition from the floor to your feet.  It can be done differently every time when your own flavor is added.  Here is how to do a basic Peek-a-boo:

Nothing to do with the move but so darn cute!!!  Peek-a-boo!

Starting with your back against the pole and in a squat position with your ankles, knees and thighs together.  At this point feel free to use one hand to balance yourself either by putting one hand on the floor or the pole behind you.  Place your free hand on your knee on the same side of that free hand.  Now, open both legs in your squat position (this is the Peek-a-Boo part;) ) and close them again.

There it is!  Very simple but it can be done in so many different and fun ways!  When you get used to the Peek-a-Boo move you can start adding your flavor like a hair flip, after closing your legs turn to one side and booty up first, etc.  Whatever the flavor you add just work it!  And if you have done it before don't let is be forgotten!  It is such a great and cute move to add to any routine;)!

Get your Peek-a-Boo on and have a great Tuesday!

Motivational Monday's: You can do it!

Aloha Monday!!

It's Monday which means it's time for some Motivation for the week!!!  Take a look at this:

If this doesn't motivate you, than I'm not sure what will!  Get out there and achieve your goals because it is NEVER TOO LATE!!!!

Stretchy Sunday's: Neck Stretch

Aloha Sunday!

This week's Stretchy Sunday's Stretch is the Neck Stretch!  The Neck Stretch is another one of those stretches you can do anywhere and is great for you:)!  We all can benefit from doing the Neck Stretch on a daily basis and when you fell like you need it.  Let's get to it!:

Neck Stretch - Right to Left:

Start standing straight with your head facing forward and shoulders rolled back and down.  Bring your right ear to your right shoulder while keeping your head facing forward for about 5 seconds.  Now bring your left ear to your left shoulder for about 5 seconds.  Repeat on the right and left side about 5 - 8 times.

Neck Stretch - Up and Down:

Start standing straight with your head facing forward and shoulders rolled back and down.  Move your head down until you are facing the ground for about 5 seconds.  Slowly, bring your head back until your are looking up for about 5 seconds.  Repeat for about 5 - 8 times.

Neck Stretch - Circles:

Start standing straight with your head facing forward and shoulders rolled back and down.  Move your right ear to your right shoulder and from there move your head in a circular motion from right, back (looking up), left and front (facing down) about 4 times.  Then switch and start from the left, back (looking up), right, and front (facing down) about 4 times.

BE CAREFUL!:

When doing any Neck Stretches you always want to move slowly because you can actually cause a minor injury by going to fast.  Also, if your neck is already in pain please listen to your body and only go as far to one side as possible.

Benefits:

1. Increased flexibility and range of motion.
2. Improved circulation.
3. Better posture.

Get stretching peps and have a great day!

Polefessional Saturday's: Marlo Fisken!

Aloha Saturday!!!

This week's Polefessional is Marlo Fisken!!!

Marlo Fisken......is one word..... AWESOME!!  Marlo is one of those people that you immediately fall in love with because she has so many great qualities about her.  She is a Champion Polefessional, beautiful aerial artist, knowledgeable Xpole Xpert Trainer, gorgeous model, instructor, and not to mention someone with a great personality!  As a Polefessional, Marlo is one of those that can rock any song thrown at her and portray whatever the song is saying perfectly.  She reeks sexiness even when there is humor involved and most importantly can entertain anyone while looking like she is extremely passionate about what she is doing.  Of course, all this awesomeness can't just be in someone.  She worked hard for what she has and where she is at right now and boy does it show!  Here is a little bio from her website (http://www.marlofisken.com/):

Marlo Fisken exemplifies healthy living as a media personality, teacher, and performer. As the face of Fitness Quest's Pilates Power Gym, and the Red Exerciser system, she stars in several of the accompanying workout DVDs. She is a frequent representative of The Sports Club/ LA Rockefeller Center, appearing on MSNBC "Staying Fit for the Holidays" segments and New York's CW11 "Monday Morning Workout". In 2006, Bally Total Fitness featured Marlo as one of five "Top Trainers" in a national commercial as she led a client on a 30-day fitness challenge.
Eight health club chains, including Crunch, New York Sports Club, and The University of Miami have asked Marlo to custom design group exercise formats. She is an NSCA/AAAI certified personal trainer and ACE group exercise instructor who stays on top of developments in the fitness industry. She shares the joy of exercise and the to whenever possible and raises funds for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation as an instructor for Shape magazine's Pilates for Pink event.


Marlo's Mind/Body study is extensive; she began her Pilates education in high school at the Governor's School For the Arts Dance Department under master students of Romana Kryzanowska. She is Pilates-certified by the Kane School of Core Integration, a holistic Body college that supplements anatomical and kinesthetic knowledge into the classical Pilates genre. Advanced studies led her to examine the foot's role in core function with dance medicine pioneer Marie Jose Blom-Lawrence, how breath establishes the mind-body connection with Yogi Rodney Yee, and the writings of Eric Frankel on movement imagery.


Marlo has a particular interest in energetic lengthening techniques. She attends Sue Hitzman's MELT (Myofascial Energetic Lengthening Technique) workshops and is a yoga student of Dharma Mittra and Laughing Lotus NY. Years of practice have led her to perform as a contortionist for Perrier Water live events.


Marlo has a B.S in anthropology and public relations from the University of Miami. Her studies focused on human movement, nutrition, and communication. While in college, Marlo toured as hip-hop dancer with Nike and BMG Latin artists, alternating weeks of research and teaching with shows in the Caribbean, Mexico and South America. She has performed in the MTV Video, Music awards, VH1 fashion rocks, music videos, and industrials. At the National High School Dance festival she lead a course on conditioning for dancers entitled "Strength & Grace" and presented club dance styles at the South Beach International Dance festival. Since July of 2007, she was cast as a dancer in the feature film "Bolden", choreographed by Hinton Battle (Dreamgirls, Idlewild), to be released next year, modeled for Hanes, Fitness Magazine, Shape Magazine, Nike Golf, and Runner's World Magazine's "Women's Complete Book of Running".


In the past couple of years Marlo has caused a stir teaching and performing acrobatic and artistic pole dance. She graced the cover of AM NY under the headline "From Risque to Ripped", danced on Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and during NY Fashion Week show. With over 20 years of Dance and Acrobatic experience, she challenges what is physically possible. Both supple and strong, she has a tenacity for extreme moves that require total presence of mind. As a teacher, this practice enables her to cue intuitively and gratefully empower others.

We had the privilege to be taught be Marlo when we took our Xpole Xpert Certification Training at the past International Pole Convention.  She was a great teacher and definitely knew her stuff!  You could tell she has had more than just pole experience which helps in teaching pole because there are so many other elements that can be added to learning and strengthening for pole.  It was great how Marlo always emphasized, "Squeeze your glutes!" for almost every move we did lol!  Marlo is an awesome polefessional and person who has never ending knowledge about fitness, pole and other things as well. If you have not heard of Marlo You Tube her you will fall in love!  if you have not taken a class from Marlo take a class you will fall in love with her!!!  Can you tell I LOVE her lol!

Have a great Saturday and as Marlo would say, "Squeeze your glutes!"

Fitness Friday's: Yoga!!

Aloha Friday!!

This week's Fitness Friday's topic is Yoga!!  We all have either done Yoga, do Yoga, heard about it or LOVE it!  I am going to discuss the AWESOME benefits of adding Yoga into your exercise routine:)!

First, a little history on Yoga:

Although Yoga seems new is has been practiced for over 5,000 years!  If something has been around for that long there must be something GREAT about it, huh?!?  More than just stretches and strength building the traditional purpose of Yoga has been to bring about a profound transformation in the person through the transcendence of the ego.  It is known that Yoga originated in the East and there have been signs or Yoga in ancient Shamanism.  There has been evidence of Yoga Postures that were found on artifacts that date back to the 3000 B.C.

Focus of Yoga:

Yoga originally focused on applying and understanding the world.  Yoga is now self-enlightenment, relaxation, strengthening and much more.

Yoga Now:

Yoga classes now more focus on learning physical poses called asanas.  They also focus on breathing and strengthening in certain poses.

Now to the benefits!!:

Flexibility:

A lot of people are a bit intimidated by Yoga because they think of people sitting around with both legs around theirs heads.  Not all Yoga classes are like that!  Yoga is great for people of all ages, sizes and genders (considering you have consulted with a doctor is you have any previous injuries or issues that could cause complication) and you are never too anything to start working on your flexibility:).  Doing any series of Yoga poses provided during class will not only stretch your muscles but also all of the soft tissues of your body (ligaments, tendons and fascia sheath that surrounds muscles) which is why it feels soooooo good!  You will most likely start to see benefits within a short amount of time no matter what level you are at!

Strength:

There are many different styles of Yoga but no matter which one you go to you will be strengthening!  Many of the poses done in Yoga build your upper body strength which is crucial as we get older.  The standing poses are usually held a bit longer and through a couple breaths and strengthen your abdominals, quads and hamstrings.  The poses that strengthen the lower back include upper ward dog and the chair pose.  Adding Yoga into your exercise routine will ensure your strengthen while receiving much more benefits at the same time!

Better your Posture:

Posture, posture, posture!  Why do we need good posture?  Good posture helps in so many ways and with good posture you will go through your daily tasks a lot easier:).  When you increase your flexibility and strength along will come the better posture.  With a stronger core, you are more likely to sit and stand taller.  Most standing and sitting poses help with developing your core strength.  remember, ENGAGE YOUR CORE!

Bye Bye Stress!!:

If you are someone that runs into stress on a daily or even hourly basis you really want to consider adding Yoga into your exercise routine!  I myself run into stress all the time and use all types of exercise formats to release the stress but Yoga results in a different more calming feeling afterwards.  Most Yoga classes focus on breathing and focusing on the breathe and nothing else.  Doing that makes you forget about the cause of stress and anything else bad that happened that day.  When I do Yoga, I leave feeling awesome and a thousand times better.  I think everyone else would rather me have my Yoga for that purpose lol!

Concentration and Mood:

This is another benefit that comes along easily when adding Yoga into your exercise routine.  Because when doing any Yoga poses you are practicing the art of concentration when trying to concentrate on the poses you are doing and holding them as well as concentrating on your breathe.  Unconsciously, you are practicing concentration which therefore naturally comes into action in everyday life.  Reeking all the benefits of Yoga, your mood will definitely change for the better.

SAFETY:

Yoga is great for everyone but there are a couple of things you should be careful of going into a Yoga class:

1. 1. If you are pregnant or have an existing health condition consult your physician before starting any type of Yoga class.  They will no what's best for you and can tell you what type may be better to start off with.
2. If you are new to Yoga, go to a class instead of trying to learn it yourself.  The instructor will help you learn the Yoga poses correctly so you do not end up hurting yourself.
3. Know your limits and listen to your body.  If a certain pose is giving you the wrong pain do not do it.  There will more likely be some modifications to each move depending on the move.  Your instructor will understand.
4. Take it easy and go slow with trying to learn Yoga.  Give your body the time to get used to doing this especially if you are someone that never stretches or does anything close to Yoga.  You may take a while to get the poses down but please take that time and do not rush it.
5. Make sure to warm up properly before doing Yoga because having cold muscles will increase your chance of injury.
6. Where comfy and stretchy clothing that allows you to move easily.
7. Stay hydrated.  Like other exercise formats, you will need to stay hydrated throughout the class.
8. Ask questions if you have any.  Your instructor should not ind questions and should be more than happy to answer them for you.

As you can see there are A LOT of benefits and I didn't even go over all of them!  If you have not added Yoga into your exercise yet please at least give it a try for more than one class and take note on how you start to feel after about a couple of weeks of doing it.  You will start to feel great and you will see that the benefits explained above will come along pretty fast if you stick to it:)!

Stay your weekend with a Yoga class to help forget the stress of the week and get you ready for relaxation!