JamQueen: Pole Fitness

Various forms of dance have made their way into the fitness studio in recent years as we’re always looking for fun and different ways of getting a workout.

And there is a new(ish) one on the block; making a difficult transition from stigmatised beginnings into the realm of a gymnastic sport, is pole fitness.

Image: JamQueen

Personally, I love it in the way I love to watch gymnastics – incredibly beautiful feats of strength and flexibility, with both men and women practising it. So when I heard about a new pole fitness studio opening at Newbridge, I was very excited to go along and have ago.

Melissa is a full time mature student at Edinburgh Napier University, studying biomedical science at the same time as running the JamQueen pole studio. There are classes three evenings a week plus Saturdays, as well as special events, pole parties and….corporate teambuilding! There is a second instructor, Maz (known as Big Maz) who also has a varied taste in music and a high calibre of coaching knowledge and experience.

Run by Melissa Jamieson, JamQueen offers a range of classes from absolute beginner to advanced. The classes are designed to be a fun workout in a relaxed atmosphere, with Melissa’s eclectic range of music thrown in! You don’t need to be already flexible and strong to try this – everyone is welcome to come and have a go.

Having first tried pole fitness nearly 10 years ago, Melissa says “Joining the pole community has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. I love how everyone I’ve had the pleasure to meet has been empowering and supportive. My passion for teaching started as a cover teacher in November 2017 and I haven’t looked back since!

"I love introducing this addictive sport to new people; showing them that they can own their bodies and watching their confidence grow, week by week. Pole really is for every body and I hope that you will feel inspired to give it a go.”

See www.jamqueen.co.uk for details of memberships and to book classes. Facebook: /jamqueenpolefitness Instagram: @jamqueenpolefitness

Drop in classes are £8.50 per session, or there is a range of membership packages available for all levels depending on how frequently you can come. There is plenty of parking near the studio.

JamQueen Pole Fitness, 2 Harvest Road, Newbridge, Edinburgh, EH28 8LW