Toning your body while honing your sensuality has never been more fun than with pole dancing workouts at Vertical Vixen.

Vertical Vixen

The pole dancing, aerial and floorobics fitness routines presented by Vertical Vixen have been developed as an alternative form of exercise. They are based on the principles of sensual movement that has proven to tone and strengthen the body whilst reawakening your sensuality. 

They offer a range of classes to suit your objectives and level of experience, from floor-based exercise routines and aerial yoga to pole acrobatics and pole dancing choreography. Their aim is to teach sensual dance and pole dancing to empower the average woman in an atmosphere that is sociable, comfortable and friendly.

While pole dancing is often associated with the exotic dance industry, it is a recognised sport that is being considered for inclusion in the Olympic Games. And, hey, it’s a damned side more fun and sexy way to get into shape than hours on a treadmill.

Julie Swart

 Vertical Vixen was founded by the lithe Julie Swart in 2006. ‘I was always a bit of fitness junkie,’ she says. ‘I used to go to gym every morning at 5:30 and workout for at least an hour before heading off to work. I found it to be the most successful way of maintaining my fitness levels and keeping toned. 

‘I did this for a few years and then decided to head for London to gain some worldly knowledge. Once there I began to over-indulge on the fantastic stodgy food that the English consume on a regular basis amongst other things. After a year I began to notice my weight increasing from what is known as the Heathrow Injection. From that moment I explored different diets and exercise plans, but with no joy.

‘I finally decided to head back home with my noticeably larger body. On arrival at the airport I decided to make a change – it was time to find myself again. I had lost sight of the things I enjoyed the most about exercise and about myself.’

Getting into Shape 
’While I was living in the UK I had heard about Pole dancing and found the idea quite intriguing,’ continues Julie. ‘I had always enjoyed dancing and thought that this might be a great way to incorporate my exercise regime with something else that I enjoy. I never got to explore this option while in the UK, but in South Africa I pursued it. My sister and I signed up for some classes and, WOW, I had finally discovered something that was fun, exciting and a decent workout.

‘I started to shed the many kilos that I had gained and within a year was back down to my normal body weight. I started to look more toned and feel sexy, my confidence levels soared and I had a new-found belief in myself. I went through a training course and spent many hours discovering my own unique way of dancing and advanced pole dancing skills.’

Unlocking the Inner Vixen

‘Our style of dancing is unique as we focus on being graceful and fluid,’ says Julie. ‘Over the last few years of instructing I have seen women of all ages, shapes and sizes become more confident through the classes we offer. Their fitness levels have increased as well as their flexibility and strength.
 
’I absolutely love what I do - the sport of pole dancing is incredible and sensual dancing has a way of unlocking every woman’s inner vixen.’

Opening as a part-time instructor, Julie now has three studios in the Johannesburg area. In that time she has been placed in the Miss Pole Dance contest and the South African Pole Dancing Championship. She has recently returned from New York where she trained with some of the leading instructors. 

Gymnastics on a Vertical Pole

The art of pole dancing is similar to aerobics, gymnastics and dancing in the type of workout it offers. It is suitable for all shapes and sizes. ‘In fact,’ adds Julie, ‘it is fantastic for even bigger women. They often have more strength and great hip movement. And, most of all, they tend to be more sensual in body, mind and soul.’

The benefits include:

o    Improved overall body tone, strength and endurance

o    Strengthened core muscles and pelvic floor

o    Increased self confidence, body image and shape

o    Greater flexibility

o    Improved rhythm and co-ordination.

Workshops and Parties

Miss Suzie Q and her partner Toby J are coming to South Africa later this month and will be conducting workshops at Vertical Vixen. She is an internationally renowned pole dancer, Burlesque performer and aerial artist. He is a former Australian Sports Acrobatic Champion with over five years experience in flying trapeze.

Vertical Vixen also offer acrobatic pole dancing shows for corporate events. Their spicy bachelorette and vixen pole dance parties are also a great deal more fun than the Tupperware variety.