Thank you Keighla, reporter with the Eagan Patch for this awesome article on our studio and our grand opening tomorrow - she stopped by Tuesday for an interview.  Had some great, creative questions.  Keighla is a graduate of the UWRF - in journalism of course!  Happy Friday and see you tomorrow in Eagan!


http://eagan.patch.com/articles/lady-katherine-fitness-studio-centers-on-pole-dancing#photo-8717307

ID tags are here - each student gets one to put on their key chain and scan themselves in for class - quicker check in and plus they are cute :)

You can be a contestant in our Biggest Improver Weight Loss Contest!  Some friendly competition goes a long way - our winner last year lost 21 inches, 24 lbs in 12 weeks and won over $500!  This is a proven program that will work for you!  Why?  It's supportive, structured and competitive - and designed by experts in the nutrition, health & well-being fields.  Be a contestant - it's only $25 entry fee and all Lady Katherine students are eligible.  We cover the topics of detox, protein, eating wholesome & balanced, body wraps, how supplements can support your weight loss, hormones for weight loss and more! Join us eginning the week of 1/9/12 for classes, first weigh in is week of 1/23/12.

Las Vegas Pole Dance Styling

Got back early this morning from a 4 day quick trip to Las Vegas.  It wasn't a work trip for a change - just having fun with friends and fam.  We rented a motorcycle and went into Utah and Arizonia - absolutely beautiful country!

I noticed how there were poles everywhere - starting with the tram from the airport to baggage claim.  I found myself doing flirts and hip circles but a frown from my husband brought me back into context.

There were poles in restaurants, at the casinos, in the clubs - t-shirts sported ladies next to or on poles too!  It was like being at my studio with my own corral of 15 poles - or at home with my collection of 4 poles.  Funny thing was no one was using the poles - they were sad and empty and off limits to 'guests' (me).   I guess I never felt far from home, but it sure was good to get back home to my own poles and I danced on every single one of them today - because I could!

Pole Dance Certification = bruises, burns and welts!

Wow what a week-end!  Friday was new Team Teacher Training 5-10pm; Pole Dance Instructor Certification levels 1-4 on Saturday 10-6pm; and back again for levels 5 & 6 today - 10-3:30pm; 

It is NOT all sassy, dancey fun - it's hard work and repeating spins over and over until you get it - and inevitably you also get - bruises, burns and welts!  Bruises - where?  inner thighs, knees, calves, feet.  Burns from the pole - where?  inner thighs and worst of all - armpits!  Welts?  Well bruises and burns can change into welts, but on top of feet and armpits were the most popular spots.

Does this happen when you take pole fitness classes or do a party - NO!!!! Don't want to scare you, but when you are training for up to 8 hours and then testing - bring some advil.

Congrats to all the ladies who successfully certified this week-end.  Proud of you!

Katherine

Booty shorts or yoga pants?

Let me start by saying that we love and accept you no matter what - BUT - I do get asked frequently what is best to wear for pole dancing - booty shorts or yoga pants?  If the mere term 'booty shorts' gives you chills leave them at home - no worries!  But in totally practical terms - unless we are climbing and inverting in class yoga pants are best.  Why?  The fabric covering your legs allows you to slide and glide around the pole without your legs sticking and getting burns.  Booty shorts, especially the shortest of short styles expose your 'thigh flesh' that is a helpful tool for sticking to the pole, making sitting, standing, and certain tricks much much easier.   In the end it is all about personal preference and comfort level  but since you asked, that's my opinion!  xoxo Katherine

Mpls Pole Dance Studio - colors?

In Hudson we have lime green and purple walls.  Sounds odd but it works super good.  I've seen a deep blue used in studios recently and am thinking of using that.  If we have darker wood on the floor that would be very rich and inviting.  It's harder decorating and choosing colors for a commercial space than at home which surprises me, but at home I only have myself to think of and in the studio there are hundreds of women with different tastes to consider - want it to feel like home to all of them! 

Eagan Site - a big rectangle! can fit 20+ poles :)

Yesterday my contractor (who is also my husband :) his crew and I went to the Eagan space to begin figuring out where everything is going to go.  I'm not a visual person when it comes to this so it was helpful to have Mike and Terry there.  The most exciting part to me is that we will have at least 20 poles and 5 TRX stations - the lobby will be warm, welcoming and spacious, we will have lots of room for inventory, something we do NOT have in Hudson, and a beautiful changing room. 

I cannot wait to bring this beautiful form of fitness to the ladies in and around Eagan.  I know other studios offer it in that suburb but everyone does it different and it's all good!!!!

This week we are ending another 6 week session, and even after 2 1/2 years I find myself reflecting and feeling a bit sad that the 6 weeks are over.  I change the routine and exercises in every class every 6 weeks - from pole dance to abs & booty to make sure that students get the best possible workout and challenge every time.  But during the 6 weeks I find that I get attached emotionally to the routine, the moves, the place students go in class - it's funny how ladies have 'their' poles.  Kind of like school or church, they get to class early to stake out their fav pole before someone else does.  The pole by the door and pole by the fan are the most popular. 

I enjoy too the synergy that develops within each class - often the ladies already know each other, and it warms my heart to see how quickly and easily they accept and integrate newbies into their fold.  They are so in love with what we do and represent that they can't wait to share and engage others - it's a beautiful thing!

Well next on my to-do list is designing routines for next week - something that always helps me get excited about the upcoming and ease the transition from the outgoing.  Remember you are beautiful and perfect.  xoxo Katherine

Wow moments during workshop today...

When I have new ladies in the studio it's important to me that they understand why I do what I do, and how I got started.  That it was a passionate, compelling force outside of me that initiated and drove the whole thing and I was a (sometimes) unwilling participant!  Today 2 ladies shared with me very powerful stories, different yet similiar, of how the enviornment of unconditional support and acceptance, coupled with the freeing movement we do has enabled them to break free, heal and integrate who they are as women, wives, mothers.  It's hearing these stories that puts the pieces of the puzzle together regarding why I was driven to create Lady Katherine and continue to nurture and spread our mission.  Remember you ARE beautiful and loved.  xoxo Katherine

Opening in Eagan - Grand Opening is Sat. 12/17 11am -6pm

Eagan Open House Just Announced!!!

Yes we are official - the free mini class schedule is posted on our class page, sign up soon - they are filling up already!  Our studio is at 4178 Pilot Knob Rd., corner of Diffley & Pilot Knob.

Our grand opening will feature valuable prize giveaways, free mini classes, free glitter tattoos, special one day promos, fun, surprises & more!  Invite your friends and join us. 

Ultimate Bachlorette party experience

This morning I met a group of 7 lovely ladies at the Residence Inn in Edina, MN.  They had won the ultimate bachlorette party sponsored by KDWB & GO2Wed.  I wasn't sure what to expect, had exchanged one email with the group.  They were checking into their rooms when I arrived and I asked them to change into shorts or workout pants and meet me in the party room. 

They came in unsure of what they were getting into - but after we did a short warm-up we started rocking some hip circles, chair dance moves and sassy walks around the room.  They were still giggling nervously and then started to smile and get into it.  We did some exotic moves on the floor and ended with a full routine and free style.

It once again demonstrated how moving in the natural, flowing way we women are designed to move will open up the pathways to inner beauty, confidence and acceptance of self and others.  We gave hugs all around after only 30 minutes and they were whisked off by limo for a fun filled day.

I cherish the time we spent together and the experience of this morning.

Booty Pop Anxiety

Okay so I'm prepping for our annual Witchy Woman Workshop being held this Sunday 10/16/11.  We are stripping out of knee high stockings and an elastic waist skirt and I have a KILLER routine to share with the ladies.  Problem is, at the end we do a booty pop - and well, I have nothing to pop. Sure my axx is firm, round, shapely but so damn athletic it will not shake/rattle/roll for nothing!  I went to a booty pop workshop in June and promised myself I'd master the pop, drive, shake and blast but have not been diligent.  Forgive me dear students if I ask you to do what I say, not what my booty does on Sunday!  See you then.  xoxo Katherine

Big Butts are Trendy - and if you don't have it, there's always kleenex!

Witchy Woman Workshop - routine 2011

Thank you for dancing with me! The song we dance to was "Witchy Woman" from the Bewitched soundtrack and it is available on i-tunes.

Set-up: chair is facing audience; you are 5 steps behind chair to the left of chair back, hands on hips and witch hat on!

-4 counts of hip dips each side

-hands go to raise hat, 4 hip circles as you raise hat high off your head

-left hand to the side (empty) right hand to the side with hat- drop hat, both hands on hips

-2 hip dips on right, hold

-4 flower petal turns around

-2 cross steps, on step out so your right side is facing front, wiggle for 4 counts running hands down body

-lean back, right hand on chair back, left hand raises gracefully overhead, bend knees for a dip

-come back up, left leg forward and right forward so you are facing front, legs wider than hip width

-1 full body circle, figure 8s, hip circles

-step left foot in front of chair, right meets it, circle to sitting on chair

-reach down to feet, up to knees with hair flip

-open right knee wide, then left, full body circle, 2 chest circles

-push right leg to right, knee bent, extend left leg straight, stroke down to left foot

-raise right foot into the air, remove sock, stroke sock on leg, throw to side

-left foot comes up into air with right, right hand goes to floor as you lean back onto chair seat

-one swoop and 2 triangle legs

-sit up, right leg way to right, then left leg joins, left leg straight, stroke down

-lift left leg up, remove sock, stroke and toss

-both hands on chair seat, both legs on floor, pump opening and closing knees, figure 8 pump

-place knees to right, stand up, flower petal turn to face back and walk to back of chair

-one large slow head circle, stroke down one side of chair slowly with hip to side then other side

-leave chair step to wall, lean back against wall facing foward

-tease with skirt

-body wave off wall, flower petal turn so back is facing audience

-large hip circles, tease with skirt

-begin to remove slowly from top, stop and hip circle when booty is 1/2 exposed, step feet together before removing the rest of the way - let it fall to floor

-step right foot out, big hip circles and booty bounce

-turn and pose with finger in mouth - you did it!!!!!

Pole Dance vs. Chair Dance vs. Exotic Dance Party

So many choices! When booking a party for a special event ladies often wonder which is the right type of party for their group. We recommend Pole Dance Party for your first time. Why? Because it's so unique. Ladies of all different fitness levels can participate, and it is so empowering. If there are shoulder injuries in the group, or you want something you can 'show off' later at home, then Chair Dance or Exotic Dance are good options. These classes are flirty, fun, a great workout and also empowering. You really can't go wrong with any of our party options, and be assured we will work with you to get the right 'fit' for your party. See you soon.

Open House Classes Filling Up

Ladies if you are planning on enjoying a free class during our Sept. 23rd open house sign up now! Pole Dance classes are limited to 14 in each, and they are filling up already. These classes are free and a great way to sample our sassy, effective fitness! www.lady-katherine.net

Eagan vs. Inver Grove Heights

Hello! I know I've been saying "IGH" "IGH" "IGH" and believe me I wanted IGH to be the location of our new studio. I've worked very very hard to find a space that will work in IGH. But there isn't alot of retail places to be had. Our Hudson studio is 1200 sq feet and 1000 seems to be the norm in IGH - too small!!!!!

So I just kept going farther on Hwy 35E and it took me to Eagan. Eagan is a big, big suburb and I'm trying to stick with a location that's easy on and easy off the Hwy. We are super duper close to finalizing a deal and then I can reveal the address, grand opening date, etc. It's so hard keeping a secret!!!!!!! xoxox Katherine

Pole Dance Orientation Workshop

Created for those who have never touched a pole, don't feel they are good dancers, or may feel intimiated by the whole idea of pole dancing. We take the fear, hesitation and stigma away, and focus on your comfort and success. Join us Sunday, 7/17 for only $25 which includes one and a half hours of instruction and a mini photo session of you and the pole. Don't worry - we will pose you and show you exactly what to do!

Lap Dance Step-by-step Instructions

June 12, 2011 LAP DANCE WORKSHOP INSTRUCTIONS

Song: "Lick" by Joi

Before 'performing' give some thought and preparation to your surroundings. Make sure there's enough room around your bunny's chair and no walls or other furniture will be in the way. If possible, have your bunny facing a mirror or reflective window so they can see what's going on behind them!

-Start in front facing chair doing sexy, sassy, moves, sassy walk with finger in mouth to the rear of the chair, directly behind bunny

-4 hip circles, touch your bunny's arms and chest, then do 4 chest circles brushing the back of your bunny's head with your breasts

-Prance to the side of chair, place left foot on chair, stroke down your leg, hair flip and slap left hip with left hand

-roll hips back 4 times, place foot back on floor

-wide step in front of chair, 2 hip circles and 1 head roll

-place right foot on chair, stroke leg, hair flip and slap right hip with right hand

-roll hips back 4 times and step foot back to the floor

-prance to the back of chair, 4 hip dips as you come to each side, give your bunny a wink or air kiss and whisper in their ear

-sassy walk to the front of chair, drop down to do 2 peek-a-boos

-sassy slide to the floor to v-legs, into scissors and into tick tock

-roll onto tummy, speed bump up into 2 ponies, flipper hands, sassy snap get up

-free style moves, wash your hair, touch your body, flower petal turn

-walk to the chair, 4 hip circles, flower petal turn

-sit on chair (on bunny's lap) do 4 hip pumps, 1 head roll and place hand on back of chair above bunny's shoulder and make direct bunny eye contact - write your own ending!!!!!

Pole Dance Parties Saturday May 28th, 2011

Thank you for celebrating your bachorlette party and birthday with Lady Katherine!!!!

Thursday Night Dancing Divas :)

Had a fun group from Woodbury (majority) last night for a pole dance party. Thanks ladies!!

Pole Dancing Parties May 21, 2011

Thank you ladies!!!

Pole Dancing Parties May 7th, 2011 - sassy!

Thank you beautiful ladies for spending time with us Saturday - what fun!!!!!

Pole Dance Parties April 30, 2011

Thank you beautiful ladies for celebrating with us today!!!

Pole Dancing - Nailing our Nemesis Moves!

This is so inspirational! These ladies choose these very moves as their challenge trick and in a short time were able to master and hold long enough for me to take a photo! Kristin E in Caterpillar; Kelly J and Wendy F in Cross Leg Release. Can't wait to see what's next.

Pole Dancing Parties April 22 & 23, 2011

Thank you for celebrating with us ladies!

Pole Dance Parties Week-end of April 15 & 16, 2011

Fun fun fun! What can I say? Thank you SO much for celebrating with Lady Katherine!

Pole Dance Parties April 9th, 2011

Thank you for celebrating with us!! Happy Birthday and all the best on your upcoming wedding, and happy 10 year anniversary!!