Get to meet the woman behind StudioVeena, a fabulous pole networking site with all the bells and whistles. Here she is, the glorious Veena – pole dancing in her PoleSkivvies!

How did you get started taking pole dancing lessons?

I’m self taught. I have been an ACE certified personal trainer for years, so the body mechanics of pole dance came easily to me. The first time I played on a pole was at a party – I was hooked!

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

There were many circumstances that lead to the idea of creating StudioVeena as an online pole dance community. I had plans for a physical studio, but an unexpected 4th pregnancy and a cross-country relocation made studio plans unrealistic at that time.

You can learn more about StudioVeena’s beginning here.

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

My online lessons are in order of level of difficulty. The warm up is first, then it’s on to strength training moves, to prepare you for pole dance! Next, we have transitions and some fun floorwork. I don’t get into the first pole move until much farther into the lessons, with the first pole move being how to walk around the pole with proper form!! Shoulders back and down ladies!

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

Being a mom of four and taking care of a business is very challenging. I never skip breakfast and always drink lots of water! I eat three meals a day and three snacks. I try to stay away from pre-packaged foods.

Favorite makeup tip:

I don’t wear much makeup, but I always use sunscreen on my face.

Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?

Platform heels!!

Favorite grip enhancer:

Never use it – I can’t stand the feel of grip enhancer. I tend to have cold, dry hands so, If I’m working on a new move, I like to dampen my towel with whatever I’m using to clean my pole, and rub the damp towel on my hands.

Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:

The full cartwheel (not the mount) and shoulder mount.

Pole dance pet peeves:

Comparing yourself to other dancers. Always compare your progress with … your progress, not the dancer who started the same time you did.

Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:

I wear my bruises proudly! For sore muscles, a super hot bath and some Epsom salts feels wonderful.

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

My husband, of course, and my wonderful StudioVeena members.

Who is your hero or role model?

Hmmmm … I guess I would have to say, I don’t really have one. How lame is that!

What are your favorite words of encouragement?

Always follow your passion!

Favorite pizza toppings:

Pepperoni, cheese, green peppers, olives, and spicy red pepper flakes.

Cupcakes or ice cream?

Chocolate CUPCAKES!!!!

Anything else you’d like to share:

I feel that pole dance is an ART! I love the fantastic work out it gives you and think tricks are fun, but it’s all about self expression for me.

StudioVeena.com gives pole dancers lots of ways to stay connected. You can use the forum, post your thoughts and videos, and meet up with everyone for a chat (Friday nights really get rocking!).

If you liked this article, you might also like to meet one of the pole dancers from the StudioVeena community.