Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyMESA, AZ -- A new East Valley business is offering a unique way to work off those extra pounds.
PlayfulPole Fitness and Dance studio has workouts based around exotic pole dancing, and the studio has 12 poles that students can use during classes.
“It’s fun,” said owner Jennifer Bourland. “And I want women to have a variety. And this is one of those ones that you don’t mind getting up out of bed to go do.”
The studio is located at Alma School and Guadalupe.
“You’re able to get your cardiovascular, your strength training, your flexibility,” Bourland said.
Bourland considers herself an expert in exotic pole dancing.
She was an exotic dancer for 16 years, and now wants to use her knowledge to teach others how pole dancing is a good way to get fit.
“Anybody can do it,” Bourland said. “I don’t care how uncoordinated you are. I don’t care how much athletic training you have or haven’t had. You’re going to benefit from it.”
Friend Deborah Faaaliga helped open the studio. She takes part in Bourland’s classes, and said no matter what shape or size you are, the workout really does make a difference.
“I’ve increased much strength in my upper body,” Faaaliga said. “I used to grab on the pole and fall to the floor and now I can grab on the pole and stay there and actually do some stuff.”
Not only is it good for your fitness, but Faaaliga said it also helps boost self-esteem.
“I team them that walking, and holding themselves proud and standing up and saying hey, I’m all good I’m all that,” she said.
The studio offers a variety of sessions ranging from group classes to one-on-one instruction.
Bourland said the workout she offers is better than going to the gym.
“I can probably show you something you haven’t done that people are spending hours with a fitness trainer for that they don’t need,” Bourland said.
Even though it is a tough time to open a small business, Bourland said she did it for the benefit of her customers.
“I felt that people are still working out,” she said. “You’re health is still important and this definitely is a health education as well as for your mind and everything.”
For more information, log onto their website at
playfulpole.com.
