Carolyne Braid of Pole Dancing Winnipeg

Meet the fabulous Carolyne Braid, bringing pole dancing to Winnipeg!

How did you get started pole dancing?

Like many things in one’s life can get started, I got started in pole dancing because of Oprah! Six years ago, I saw Sheila Kelley, of the S Factor, featured on Oprah and was immediately captivated with pole dancing. I immediately ordered a video, book, and a pole and starting teaching myself.

Shortly thereafter, I realized the change that I was experiencing – I was more confident, I walked with a sway in my step, and, physically, I was becoming stronger and more toned.

How did you make the leap to opening your own studio and offering pole dancing classes? What was that like?

I realized that there would be other women who wanted to experience all of the benefits I was. So I turned my passion into a business. For the first four years, I only offered home pole dancing parties and, in the spring of 2009, due to an overwhelming demand from clients, I implemented a formal pole fitness program.

What is the first thing you teach students just starting to take pole dancing?

There are so many things that I tell students when they are first starting: like most things, you won’t perfect it the first time you do it; there is no right or wrong way to pole dance … merely more attractive ways (and that is what we teach – the more attractive ways); and to have FUN! Above all else, I love seeing big smiles on the faces of my students.

The first thing I teach students is hip circles. I want women to become more comfortable with and more familiar with their own bodies and how it can move.

How do you take care of yourself, given all the pole dancing classes you teach?

Fortunately I have a great team of women who teach classes with me so that not just one person is taxing their body continually. And to ensure we are all taking care of ourselves, we cross-train by doing weight-training, aerobic, Zumba, yoga, and getting plenty of rest.

Favorite makeup tip:

Lipstick makes everything better.

Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?

Black boots with a nice big chunky heel.

Favorite grip enhancer:

Not usually required but, when needed, Mighty Grip.

Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:

The first time I ever inverted I was so proud of myself I almost dropped to the ground. Looking back, it is such a simple move, but with that move I realized that if I train hard enough, I can do whatever I set my mind to.

Pole dance pet peeves:

People that pass judgment without even trying it. Contempt prior to investigation.

Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:

A nice, long hot shower.

Who would you most like to have in the audience when you pole dance?

My husband, who is my best friend, biggest fan, and consummate supporter.

Who is your hero or role model?

I have been training with Fawnia Mondey for years. As a pole dancer, she inspires me to reach new heights and not to be afraid.

What are your favorite words of encouragement?

You’re hot!

Favorite pizza toppings:

I’m a vegetarian, so I appreciate almost anything veggie on my pizza. Every Friday we make homemade pizza (including the crust) and you can usually find four kinds of peppers, mushrooms, red onion, spinach, feta, and cheese.

Cupcakes or ice cream?

Ice cream topped with a cut-up chocolate chip cookie, chocolate chips and chocolate sauce (my Sunday treat).

What do you like to do when you’re not pole dancing?

I have two amazing children (girl 9; boy 7) who are actively involved in different sports and programs. So, when I’m not teaching or running the business, I can be found driving them somewhere or playing a good game of Wii bowling with the whole family.

Anything else you’d like to share:

As a true “extraordinary everyday woman” who has no prior dance experience, the pole has provided me with an outlet to feel sexy, empowered, and to expand my physical fitness. It is a pleasure and a joy to watch other “extraordinary everyday women” experience this same awakening.

Carolyne Braid teaches at Pole Dancing Winnipeg. She is also a member of the Pole Fitness Association.

Tags: Pole Dance, Pole Dancing

January 7, 2010 - Posted by PoleSkivvies No Comments
Filed under: Pole Dancing Instructors