Meet the fabulous Marilyn Rainville!

How did you get started taking pole dancing lessons?

I met with a friend of mine, Trish, for lunch to discuss our latest class/certification test. She told me she was going to check out an Open House at O.C. Pole Fitness. I was so excited. I have been in dance and fitness all my life and had been wanting to try pole since I heard about it. We went to the Open House together and I immediately connected. I signed up for my first 6-week package that night. That was over two years ago. Now, I am addicted!! LOL

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

I have actually been in business for myself for the last seven years. I have been working as in independent contractor out of various gyms/studios. I started as a personal trainer. I realized there had to be a better way and one that was more fun than strictly training people on machines. I was looking for a way to take the word “boring” out of exercise and replace it with words like “challenging” and “fun.” This is when I found C.H.E.K. Institute. Shortly after, I found pole dancing/pilates. The combination of the two — wow! What a workout! My clients love it. I immersed myself in class after class and certification after certification. It was a natural move from training out of other gyms and studios to opening up my own.

What was that like?

A dream come true. I feel very lucky to be able to teach what I love doing.

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

Most importantly, I want them to feel comfortable on the pole. If they are nervous, I try to get them to relax, laugh, and have fun. I always start with the basics, the fundamentals – the walk, the pirouette, the sweep. If they are feeling good about it, I try the fireman spin. However, I assess and teach each client individually depending on their strengths and weaknesses. Once I assess and determine where each clients weaknesses are (strength and/or flexability), I work with them to build on the/those area(s). This is where I zoom in on my C.H.E.K. training. At the beginning and end of each class I teach individualized stretching and strength training.

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

I am very holistic. I eat organic, grass-fed meats and organic fruits and vegetables. I also love Qi Gong (very relaxing) and long leisurely walks/hikes with my dog. There is nothing better then getting back to nature for relaxation. I can not remember the last time I was sick. I also teach some of this to any of my clients who are interested. Sometimes, I will do a Qi Gong stretch/cool down. Most of my clients love it.

Favorite makeup tip:

I very rarely wear makeup. I don’t like the feel of it.

Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?

All. Depends on what I, or the class, is working on. Free dance, I always give my clients the choice. Most wear platform heels — it sets the mood! However, if I, or the class, are working on learning how to climb or inversions, I prefer barefoot or jazz/tennis shoes to help build strength.

Favorite grip enhancer:

I have tried various grip enhancers. Lately, I have been using Dry Hands or a “gymnastics chalk bag.” A lot of my clients actually prefer the “chalk.”

Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:

I would have to say the Reverse Aysha. I don’t know why, put I had a hard time getting it.

Pole dance pet peeves:

The only pet peeve I really have is people who scoff at it without realizing just how much strength it really takes to pull off some of the tricks.

Pole is very athletic. Until you try it … well???

Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:

Aloe Vera Gel/Liquid and Coconut Oil for bruises. For sore muscles, I use “Dr. Olivers Power Tea,” which I make with “Joint Care Herbal Tea, Coconut Oil, and Pure Beef Gelatin.”

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

Gilles Marini from Dancing with the Stars! UHLALA! LOL

Who is your hero or role model?

Wow! I have a few. In life, in general — I would have to say my daughter. She is an amazing woman/person. In the pole dancing arena, there are so many great women. If I had to pick, the four women I watch and study the most are Jenyne Butterfly, Alethea Austin, Pantera and Felix. In the holistic arena, hands down, Paul Chek.

What are your favorite words of encouragement?

Girlfriend, you rock! (with a high-five!)

Favorite pizza toppings:

Mushroom and onion.

Cupcakes or ice cream?

Yuummm, both together (ice cream on top of cupcake), please. I have to admit, sweets are my downfall.

Anything else you’d like to share:

I have met a lot of pole dancers since I started two years ago. Most of them have been incredible, amazing, gracious women. I would like to thank all of them not only for the inspiration I have received from them, but also for the inspiration they are constantly putting out to the world.

If you are looking for exercise with an added spin, or pole dancing classes in Dubiln, California, be sure to contact Marilyn Rainville.