Name (or nickname) and Pronouns
PJ Fournier
When did you start your pole journey with Uplift?
When the pandemic started!
Why did you decide to try pole dancing at Uplift?
I met Danette at another pole studio that I attended for about a year. After a class at that studio, Danette was just arriving with a camera in hand and pointed to me and said "stay!" LOL... with an invitation like that, how could I resist? She was putting together a video of students to show all the different types of women that participate showing that it doesn't matter how old you are (I am 68 years old), how young you are, how big or small, no matter what your profession. It is an activity for everyone! She also subbed for a class and had us do a stripper routine... wow... was that ever out of my wheelhouse! So when Danette sent out an email saying she was going to start up virtual lessons during the pandemic, I was thrilled! Sign me up :)
What do you love most about Uplift?
Everyone who dances or teaches at Uplift has the same goal... be supportive, be genuine, be kind and dance your heart out!
What do you love about pole dancing?
The heels LOL...Pole dancing has given me a new lease on life. I first tried pole dancing after a gnarly divorce after almost 20 years of marriage. I had always been a tomboy and never really did anything for myself. I intend to keep on dancing for as long as this old body will allow it.
Did you have a dance or fitness background before starting your pole journey with Uplift?
Fitness yes, dancing no... And I must say that my body did not and still does not fully cooperate... but I am learning to let go, modify and push myself past my comfort zone.
What are your top 3 favorite songs to pole dance to?
My top three changes all the time. Danette is always introducing new music and every dancer also introduces me to new music. My top 3 right now are Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers, Give Me One Reason by Tracy Chapman and Rock Me Baby by Blue Cheer.
What advice would you give to others that are thinking about trying pole dancing?
I say do it!!! Forget about waiting for the right time, whether you want to be in better shape or lose some weight or are too shy or think you are too old. No matter your reason, think about what this will do for you. You will get into amazing shape... the amount of strength you gain is amazing. Dancing is all about feeling good about yourself.. letting yourself go and immerse yourself in the music. This is the absolute best thing I have done for myself... it is "me time".... it is learning new things... it is my therapy.
What are some of your pole and movement goals for the year?
I really want to get my ass over my head for an inversion LOL... A serious shoulder injury over two years ago has left me with weakness in my left shoulder... I will keep working on it until I get it!
What motivates you to keep coming back and pole dancing at Uplift?
The students, instructors, music, movement, dancing, learning, being part of a supportive group!
What has been the best thing you've learned since starting your pole journey?
How to walk! Being a tomboy all my life, I never did learn how to move my hips... they still go in the opposite direction sometimes, but I'm learning to actually move my body, slow down, add my own personal touch and have fun with it.... Oh... and how to walk and dance in heels! Also, Jasmine... LOL... I am still terrified of that one, but if I can ride a Harley, I can certainly do Jasmine.