Regina Armand’s passion for pole dancing and aerial arts led her to create Aerial Loft, a dance studio in Mineola, that offers a safe and supportive environment for people to express themselves, build confidence, and dispel stereotypes about pole dancing. Armand recently shared the misconceptions surrounding pole dancing and emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming space for clients of all ages and skill levels.
A Community of Support and Empowerment
Armand sees Aerial Loft as more than just a dance studio; she views it as a community where like-minded individuals come together to support one another.
“I like to think of it as a safe space for anyone to be able to come in and express themselves through dance,” Regina explained.
The studio attracts a diverse range of clients, from stay-at-home moms and college students to nurses and lawyers, all united by a common interest in pole and aerial arts.
Pole dancing is often misunderstood, with many associating it solely with its origins in clubs. However, Aerial Loft aims to dispel these myths by showcasing the fitness, strength, and artistry involved in the practice.
“The easiest thing is for someone skeptical about the art is to come in and try it themselves,” Armand said. “I would love for people to get the experience and know that this is a form of fitness, a way to move your body.”
Overcoming Misconceptions and Building Confidence
One of the biggest challenges Armand faces is helping people overcome their self-doubt and misconceptions about pole dancing. Many potential clients feel too shy or embarrassed to give it a try.
“You will never know until you try it,” Armand said. “We offer a first-visit rate of $20 for someone to come, and it’s an hour of your time that could change your life.”
This introductory class is designed for first-time students with no prior experience, offering a supportive environment where they can discover the physical and emotional benefits of pole dancing.
Her journey with pole dancing began more than a decade ago following a class she took in Manhattan; it transformed her life.
“I was on my way to becoming a newscaster at Hofstra, and I dropped out my last year to pursue pole and aerial full-time,” she shared. “Pole dancing has taught me to love and appreciate my body for what it can do, not just how it looks.”
Her personal experience of gaining confidence and body positivity through pole dancing fuels her passion for sharing it with others.
A Diverse Range of Classes and Opportunities
Aerial Loft offers a variety of classes, including pole, aerial silks, hammock, stretch, floorwork, kids’ camp and private events. The studio caters to clients of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced students. Instructors at Aerial Loft have performed professionally in various shows and events, providing students with high-quality training and inspiration.
“I’ve done Saturday Night Live two times, performed for Snoop Dogg, and done video shoots and concerts,” she said, highlighting the opportunities that Aerial Loft helps cultivate. The studio also hosts showcases to give students a platform to perform and gain experience. Many of the instructors and students have gone on to perform professionally, including Julia Schwing, who we had a chance to speak with last month in an exclusive interview about her aerial talents.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Space
The supportive environment at Aerial Loft is crucial for both instructors and students. The energy in the studio is infectious, with everyone cheering each other on and celebrating their progress.
“The energy is just unmatched,” Armand noted. “It’s important for me to feel good about what I’m doing and to be supportive of other women and men who come in to take the class.”
While pole dancing is often seen as a female-dominated activity, Aerial Loft is open to men as well. The studio aims to be inclusive and welcoming to all, regardless of gender. Armand’s goal is to create a space where everyone can feel comfortable and empowered.
Expanding Horizons and Future Plans
As Aerial Loft approaches its fifth anniversary, Armand is looking to expand. The current studio has grown in popularity, and she hopes to one day move to a bigger location to accommodate the increasing interest.
Armand’s dedication to pole and aerial arts has made a significant impact on her clients and the local community. By providing a supportive and empowering environment, she has helped many people discover new strengths and build confidence.
Aerial Loft is located at 267 Horton Highway in Mineola. Visit www.theaerialloft.com to learn more.
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