INSTRUCTOR BIOS
Christine Flynn
Lives in: Port Coquitlam Day Job: Accounting
Christine is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2004), Chair Fit, Body Scullpt, Stiletto Sexy
Biography
Always an active person, Christine played volleyball, basketball, ran track, and took dance lessons in school, but it was pole fitness that changed her life at 19, and inspired her to become the amazing and encouraging instructor she is now. You wouldn’t know it to talk to her, but confidence didn’t come easily to Christine. She was very shy and reserved, but she says that the pole dancing classes made her feel “worthy, confident, and powerful”, which is why she has a passion for teaching women to love their bodies and helping them feel confident in their own skin. Christine’s sweet, confident demeanor has a great influence on her students, who feel instantly put at ease in her classes.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I stay healthy so that I can live my life to the fullest potential. I eventually want to start a family and have children, and i want to be able to keep up with them and watch my family grow up.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
I’m very crafty and I like to make things from scratch. In the summer I like to be outdoors, whether playing volleyball, camping, or hiking... And of course, I love chasing after my two adorable nephews who remind me just how great life is every time I’m with them.
What is your personal style?
In winter I live in leggings and boots, in summer I live in dresses. I’d say I’m pretty girlie, I love make up and curling my hair
(I think that we’d all agree with Christine there, the real question we’d love an answer to is how she keeps her make up so perfect while kicking our butts in a work out)
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
A sewing kit, a toothbrush, and probably about 10 lip glosses, even though only 2 are in use. (Forever practical and feminine)
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
See, this could mean anything, but right away I thought food, so my not-so-secret addiction would be potato chips.
Christine is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2004), Chair Fit, Body Scullpt, Stiletto Sexy
Biography
Always an active person, Christine played volleyball, basketball, ran track, and took dance lessons in school, but it was pole fitness that changed her life at 19, and inspired her to become the amazing and encouraging instructor she is now. You wouldn’t know it to talk to her, but confidence didn’t come easily to Christine. She was very shy and reserved, but she says that the pole dancing classes made her feel “worthy, confident, and powerful”, which is why she has a passion for teaching women to love their bodies and helping them feel confident in their own skin. Christine’s sweet, confident demeanor has a great influence on her students, who feel instantly put at ease in her classes.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I stay healthy so that I can live my life to the fullest potential. I eventually want to start a family and have children, and i want to be able to keep up with them and watch my family grow up.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
I’m very crafty and I like to make things from scratch. In the summer I like to be outdoors, whether playing volleyball, camping, or hiking... And of course, I love chasing after my two adorable nephews who remind me just how great life is every time I’m with them.
What is your personal style?
In winter I live in leggings and boots, in summer I live in dresses. I’d say I’m pretty girlie, I love make up and curling my hair
(I think that we’d all agree with Christine there, the real question we’d love an answer to is how she keeps her make up so perfect while kicking our butts in a work out)
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
A sewing kit, a toothbrush, and probably about 10 lip glosses, even though only 2 are in use. (Forever practical and feminine)
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
See, this could mean anything, but right away I thought food, so my not-so-secret addiction would be potato chips.
Yvonne Mikes
Lives in: Maple RIdge Day Job: Daycare Teacher
Yvonne is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2004), R.I.P.P.E.D, Circuit & Stretch
Has taught: Step, hi-low, boot camp, Spin & T.R.X
Biography
Yvonne is one extreme girl. She has been involved in fitness all her life, as an athlete, a fitness participant, and as an instructor. She has a love and enthusiasm for the outdoors, which means on any day with somewhat decent weather you will find her out in the mountains on a 22km hike eating jelly beans, and snow won’t stop her either, she’ll just strap on the snowshoes and head out, as if it were any other day. Yvonne is also a rock climbing enthusiast, and is well known at the climbing gyms in the area - what else is she going to do when the weather’s bad? Yvonne is fantastic at inspiring people to try new things. She is enthusiastic and driven, and does a great job distracting her students from the grueling workout she gives them by telling great stories of her adventures. Yvonne loves to help people fully understand the exercises they are doing, and is always thorough and patient when answering questions.
Yvonne is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2004), R.I.P.P.E.D, Circuit & Stretch
Has taught: Step, hi-low, boot camp, Spin & T.R.X
Biography
Yvonne is one extreme girl. She has been involved in fitness all her life, as an athlete, a fitness participant, and as an instructor. She has a love and enthusiasm for the outdoors, which means on any day with somewhat decent weather you will find her out in the mountains on a 22km hike eating jelly beans, and snow won’t stop her either, she’ll just strap on the snowshoes and head out, as if it were any other day. Yvonne is also a rock climbing enthusiast, and is well known at the climbing gyms in the area - what else is she going to do when the weather’s bad? Yvonne is fantastic at inspiring people to try new things. She is enthusiastic and driven, and does a great job distracting her students from the grueling workout she gives them by telling great stories of her adventures. Yvonne loves to help people fully understand the exercises they are doing, and is always thorough and patient when answering questions.
Kat Shwydky
Day Job: Marketing Manager
Kat is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2005), Boot camp & Pole Yoga.
Lifeguard, swimming and diving instructor 1995 - 2005
Biography
Although born and raised in BC, Kat spent an unforgettable six months in Paris, France after high school where she worked as a nanny, and says that her time there played a role in making her who she is today. Kat’s fabulous and classic style was displayed for all to see at her wedding to hubby Paul last June, and they are the proud “parents” of an adorable puppy named Caesar. Fitness has always been a part of Kat’s life. She was doing gymnastics and swimming from a very young age, and even worked as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. Seven years ago she attended a pole party and was immediately hooked. She started taking lessons, then began teaching at Aradia Fitness. She then went on to do her BCRPA group fitness certification to indulge her love in Boot Camps. An enthusiastic and encouraging instructor, Kat loves teaching fitness because it’s a fun way to stay fit and share healthy living with others.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
The way I feel motivates me. If I’ve been slacking off for too long I feel terrible and that makes me want to work out and eat clean.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
Lots! I’m very a very active, outdoorsy girl who loves to hike, camp and swim in the summer, and snowboard in the winter. I’m also quite crafty and sew when I have free time, but I never seem to have any anymore, lol.
How would you describe your personal style?
Classic with a twist. I love to update classic, feminine looks with modern trends and accessories. I’m a girlie-girl at heart who loves sky-high heels, cashmere, pearls, and anything pink.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
That's a horrible thing to suggest! Being restricted to two shoes for the rest of my life would be terrible, but if I must choose-I need great cross-training runners and a pair of black Louboutin heels :-)
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
Miss Vickie’s potato chips. I can eat the entire bag in one sitting!
Kat is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2005), Boot camp & Pole Yoga.
Lifeguard, swimming and diving instructor 1995 - 2005
Biography
Although born and raised in BC, Kat spent an unforgettable six months in Paris, France after high school where she worked as a nanny, and says that her time there played a role in making her who she is today. Kat’s fabulous and classic style was displayed for all to see at her wedding to hubby Paul last June, and they are the proud “parents” of an adorable puppy named Caesar. Fitness has always been a part of Kat’s life. She was doing gymnastics and swimming from a very young age, and even worked as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. Seven years ago she attended a pole party and was immediately hooked. She started taking lessons, then began teaching at Aradia Fitness. She then went on to do her BCRPA group fitness certification to indulge her love in Boot Camps. An enthusiastic and encouraging instructor, Kat loves teaching fitness because it’s a fun way to stay fit and share healthy living with others.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
The way I feel motivates me. If I’ve been slacking off for too long I feel terrible and that makes me want to work out and eat clean.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
Lots! I’m very a very active, outdoorsy girl who loves to hike, camp and swim in the summer, and snowboard in the winter. I’m also quite crafty and sew when I have free time, but I never seem to have any anymore, lol.
How would you describe your personal style?
Classic with a twist. I love to update classic, feminine looks with modern trends and accessories. I’m a girlie-girl at heart who loves sky-high heels, cashmere, pearls, and anything pink.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
That's a horrible thing to suggest! Being restricted to two shoes for the rest of my life would be terrible, but if I must choose-I need great cross-training runners and a pair of black Louboutin heels :-)
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
Miss Vickie’s potato chips. I can eat the entire bag in one sitting!
Lisa Zral
Lives in: Coquitlam Day Job: Works for a customs broker
Lisa is a fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2011), Bootcamp & Chair Fit
Biography
When you meet Lisa, you may think she’s just quiet and relaxed, which is true, but it doesn’t take long to see her for the hardcore chick she is. Her wit and sense of humour, combined with her patience and good nature make her a fun and encouraging instructor. Although she looks great and is super comfortable in basic jeans and a t-shirt, she loves to get dolled up and head out for a night of fun. As a teenager Lisa was pretty chill, good in school, into music and hanging out with friends. She has always been fairly fit, and sees it as a good way to fend off potential health problems when she’s older. Lisa says her love of fashion is also a good motivator to stay fit - she wants to make sure she looks good in those clothes.
Q&A
Why do you teach fitness?
I love the feeling after a workout, and I love working students so hard they have the same satisfied feeling after. Plus, it’s fun!
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
I love buying funky rings. But also vampires and zombies.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
Hmmm.... A pair of black heels and comfy wedge boots with fur! Both can dress up or down depending on the rest of the outfit. (I hope she practices running in those, or she’ll be the first to get picked off by the vampires and zombies!!)
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
Hello Kitty kleenex, spare earphones, and sunglasses (cause when is it really sunny? (haha)
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
Mellow(no explanation needed, it’s the dead truth)
Lisa is a fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2011), Bootcamp & Chair Fit
Biography
When you meet Lisa, you may think she’s just quiet and relaxed, which is true, but it doesn’t take long to see her for the hardcore chick she is. Her wit and sense of humour, combined with her patience and good nature make her a fun and encouraging instructor. Although she looks great and is super comfortable in basic jeans and a t-shirt, she loves to get dolled up and head out for a night of fun. As a teenager Lisa was pretty chill, good in school, into music and hanging out with friends. She has always been fairly fit, and sees it as a good way to fend off potential health problems when she’s older. Lisa says her love of fashion is also a good motivator to stay fit - she wants to make sure she looks good in those clothes.
Q&A
Why do you teach fitness?
I love the feeling after a workout, and I love working students so hard they have the same satisfied feeling after. Plus, it’s fun!
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
I love buying funky rings. But also vampires and zombies.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
Hmmm.... A pair of black heels and comfy wedge boots with fur! Both can dress up or down depending on the rest of the outfit. (I hope she practices running in those, or she’ll be the first to get picked off by the vampires and zombies!!)
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
Hello Kitty kleenex, spare earphones, and sunglasses (cause when is it really sunny? (haha)
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
Mellow(no explanation needed, it’s the dead truth)
Christine Lyster
Lives in: Pitt Meadows Day Job: Business Analyst
Christine is a fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2007) & Cardio kick-box.
Biography
Christine has always had a very active life, being involved in sports and dance all through high school. She started pole dancing as a student, and quickly when on to training as an instructor. Christine teaches fitness classes because it makes sense to her to teach something you already love to do. She loves how everyone is always very positive and supportive, and often share similar goals. Christine finds it is a great way for her to connect with other women, and always finds it rewarding to see people meet their goals. Christine’s classes will work you harder than you knew you could, and all her students love her for it.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
Staying healthy helps me keep a normal, balanced life. It also tends to keep all the colds and viruses away, on top of keeping my body at a healthy weight.
How would you describe your personal style?
Teaching style: Loud
Personal style: Sporty/Casual
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
Runners because you just never know when you may need to run. Flip flops because I hate it when my feet get too hot.
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
Playful- I am a child at heart. I love to joke around, laugh, and have fun.
Christine is a fitness instructor, and was trained as a pole fitness instructor by Aradia Fitness.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches pole fitness (since 2007) & Cardio kick-box.
Biography
Christine has always had a very active life, being involved in sports and dance all through high school. She started pole dancing as a student, and quickly when on to training as an instructor. Christine teaches fitness classes because it makes sense to her to teach something you already love to do. She loves how everyone is always very positive and supportive, and often share similar goals. Christine finds it is a great way for her to connect with other women, and always finds it rewarding to see people meet their goals. Christine’s classes will work you harder than you knew you could, and all her students love her for it.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
Staying healthy helps me keep a normal, balanced life. It also tends to keep all the colds and viruses away, on top of keeping my body at a healthy weight.
How would you describe your personal style?
Teaching style: Loud
Personal style: Sporty/Casual
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
Runners because you just never know when you may need to run. Flip flops because I hate it when my feet get too hot.
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
Playful- I am a child at heart. I love to joke around, laugh, and have fun.
Kathy-Ann Nobbs-Thiessen
Lives in: Vancouver Day Job: Music Teacher
Kathy-Ann is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and a certified Zumba instructor.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches Zumba & Cardio toning
Biography
Kathy-Ann has always had an interest in fitness, particularly dancing. She has fond memories of twirling to music in her parents‘ basement as a little girl. As a child, Kathy-Ann took jazz dance lessons, and as an adult she tried out ballroom dancing with her husband, Max. In 2009, She tried her first Zumba class and was instantly hooked. For the first time ever, Kathy-Ann craved exercise. After a year as a participant, She took the training to become a Zumba instructor, and now Kathy-Ann teaches Zumba all over Vancouver and shares her enthusiasm with everyone she meets. Kathy-Ann has a teacher’s spirit from top to bottom. She is encouraging and exudes enthusiasm in everything from the way she smiles to the way she gives her crazy Zumba yells. She has reported that smiling so much while doing Zumba has actually given her lip spasms before, which, although painful, is proof that she really does love what she does. Kathy-Ann teaches Zumba because she wants others to experience the extreme joy and satisfaction she feels after dancing to uplifting music for an hour.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I am motivated by the way staying healthy makes me feel. I know that when I eat right and exercise I am happier, healthier, and more fun to be around.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
I love high heeled shoes, and can be found walking around town, taking the bus, and teaching at the elementary school in them. If I had to choose just one pair of heels, I would choose my Kensie denim heels with the silver studs on the back - they go with everything and make a statement! The other pair of shoes I would shoes would have to be my runners because I need them to teach Zumba!
How would you describe your personal style?
I would say that I am a mix of classic and casual. I tend to love wearing black,cream, grey, and denim, but when it comes to accessories, give me colour! I have a rainbow of more than 30 scarves from my travels in my closet, and they make every outfit pop.
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
Cookies... If I bake them, I can’t stop eating them! This is sad for my husband because it means I don’t bake them very often!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
In 5 years I see myself teaching Zumba several times a week in Port Coquitlam and Vancouver; teaching part-time at the elementary
school; successfully selling my crafts on Etsy; perhaps a child... I don’t want my Mom to get too excited!; traveling a couple times a year.
Kathy-Ann is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, and a certified Zumba instructor.
Fitness Profile:
Teaches Zumba & Cardio toning
Biography
Kathy-Ann has always had an interest in fitness, particularly dancing. She has fond memories of twirling to music in her parents‘ basement as a little girl. As a child, Kathy-Ann took jazz dance lessons, and as an adult she tried out ballroom dancing with her husband, Max. In 2009, She tried her first Zumba class and was instantly hooked. For the first time ever, Kathy-Ann craved exercise. After a year as a participant, She took the training to become a Zumba instructor, and now Kathy-Ann teaches Zumba all over Vancouver and shares her enthusiasm with everyone she meets. Kathy-Ann has a teacher’s spirit from top to bottom. She is encouraging and exudes enthusiasm in everything from the way she smiles to the way she gives her crazy Zumba yells. She has reported that smiling so much while doing Zumba has actually given her lip spasms before, which, although painful, is proof that she really does love what she does. Kathy-Ann teaches Zumba because she wants others to experience the extreme joy and satisfaction she feels after dancing to uplifting music for an hour.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I am motivated by the way staying healthy makes me feel. I know that when I eat right and exercise I am happier, healthier, and more fun to be around.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be, and why?
I love high heeled shoes, and can be found walking around town, taking the bus, and teaching at the elementary school in them. If I had to choose just one pair of heels, I would choose my Kensie denim heels with the silver studs on the back - they go with everything and make a statement! The other pair of shoes I would shoes would have to be my runners because I need them to teach Zumba!
How would you describe your personal style?
I would say that I am a mix of classic and casual. I tend to love wearing black,cream, grey, and denim, but when it comes to accessories, give me colour! I have a rainbow of more than 30 scarves from my travels in my closet, and they make every outfit pop.
What is your not-so-secret addiction?
Cookies... If I bake them, I can’t stop eating them! This is sad for my husband because it means I don’t bake them very often!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
In 5 years I see myself teaching Zumba several times a week in Port Coquitlam and Vancouver; teaching part-time at the elementary
school; successfully selling my crafts on Etsy; perhaps a child... I don’t want my Mom to get too excited!; traveling a couple times a year.
Leanne Monks
Lives in: Surrey Day Job: undefined
Leanne is a BCRPA certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, as well as holding pre and post-natal fitness, third age fitness, and osteo-fit certifications
Fitness Profile:
Enjoying pole fitness since September, 2010
BCRPA Certified in Group Fitness
BCRPA Certified Personal Trainer - since July 2012
BCRPA CECs in: R.I.P.P.E.D
Biography
Leanne is a “Jill of all Trades”.Married to Jeremy for almost 10 years, she homeschools her 7 and 8 year old daughters, while juggling an ever changing schedule of work and play. In the past she has worked in a veterinary clinic and in residential property management. Currently she and her daughters clean houses a couple times a month to finance their horseback riding habit, while frequently traveling to work in the office of a Victoria business owned by family friends. When faced with the possibility of losing her pole studio and friends, Leanne dove head first into school to achieve all the certifications she could in the hopes of opening her own studio in the near future, however, plans changed only hours after completing her school registration when she was contacted by Diana and found out that she had the same goal, only sooner. Now Leanne is working hard to be able to help multiply the number, variety, and time slots for classes at Room to Move Dance and Fitness.
While Leanne is teaching and available for training at Room to Move, she is also available as a trainer through her company Train 4:13. You can find out more at www.train413.com.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
Four years ago I was 50 lbs heavier, “allergic” to exercise, and had no self confidence. I worked my butt off, literally, to lose the weight and get into shape, and every aspect of my life was impacted. I stay healthy because I never want to go back. My family health history is somewhat bleak, so I am determined to meet any potential challenges of the future head on with the best I can give. I never want to look back thinking I could have done better but was too lazy.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?
Running shoes and stilettos, because anything you can’t do in a stiletto, you can do in a runner, and nothing can pick your self image off the ground better than some earrings, make up, and your trusty stilettos.
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
A father figure in my life pegged this one for me years ago. TOTALLY. Anyone who knows me will attest that there’s nothing half way about me. I’m either totally in, or totally out. I love it or hate it. I’m up or I’m down. As I get older, I am learning to aim for middle ground, but I think I will always be a “totally” person.
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
My purse is magical, I swear it. The winners right now would be a pair of underwear, a toothbrush, and a little bag I call my “mom pouch” (first aid kit, tide to go, sewing kit, batteries, lighter, and flashlight).
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
My husband and I have a dream to own a ranch style property where we can provide Christian ministry and an opportunity for healing to women who have come out of harmful situations. Through learning to work with horses, working in the garden, and learning practical life skills, we want to encourage women to find their self worth and to give them a future and hope.
Leanne is a BCRPA certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, as well as holding pre and post-natal fitness, third age fitness, and osteo-fit certifications
Fitness Profile:
Enjoying pole fitness since September, 2010
BCRPA Certified in Group Fitness
BCRPA Certified Personal Trainer - since July 2012
BCRPA CECs in: R.I.P.P.E.D
Biography
Leanne is a “Jill of all Trades”.Married to Jeremy for almost 10 years, she homeschools her 7 and 8 year old daughters, while juggling an ever changing schedule of work and play. In the past she has worked in a veterinary clinic and in residential property management. Currently she and her daughters clean houses a couple times a month to finance their horseback riding habit, while frequently traveling to work in the office of a Victoria business owned by family friends. When faced with the possibility of losing her pole studio and friends, Leanne dove head first into school to achieve all the certifications she could in the hopes of opening her own studio in the near future, however, plans changed only hours after completing her school registration when she was contacted by Diana and found out that she had the same goal, only sooner. Now Leanne is working hard to be able to help multiply the number, variety, and time slots for classes at Room to Move Dance and Fitness.
While Leanne is teaching and available for training at Room to Move, she is also available as a trainer through her company Train 4:13. You can find out more at www.train413.com.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
Four years ago I was 50 lbs heavier, “allergic” to exercise, and had no self confidence. I worked my butt off, literally, to lose the weight and get into shape, and every aspect of my life was impacted. I stay healthy because I never want to go back. My family health history is somewhat bleak, so I am determined to meet any potential challenges of the future head on with the best I can give. I never want to look back thinking I could have done better but was too lazy.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?
Running shoes and stilettos, because anything you can’t do in a stiletto, you can do in a runner, and nothing can pick your self image off the ground better than some earrings, make up, and your trusty stilettos.
If you could use one word to describe yourself, what would it be, and why?
A father figure in my life pegged this one for me years ago. TOTALLY. Anyone who knows me will attest that there’s nothing half way about me. I’m either totally in, or totally out. I love it or hate it. I’m up or I’m down. As I get older, I am learning to aim for middle ground, but I think I will always be a “totally” person.
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
My purse is magical, I swear it. The winners right now would be a pair of underwear, a toothbrush, and a little bag I call my “mom pouch” (first aid kit, tide to go, sewing kit, batteries, lighter, and flashlight).
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
My husband and I have a dream to own a ranch style property where we can provide Christian ministry and an opportunity for healing to women who have come out of harmful situations. Through learning to work with horses, working in the garden, and learning practical life skills, we want to encourage women to find their self worth and to give them a future and hope.
Diana Watson
Lives in: Port Coquitlam Day Job: Accounting Manager
Diana is the owner and operator of Room to Move Fitness, the big boss if you will, but don’t call her that, cause she prefers to be thought of as "one of the gang."
Fitness Profile:
Owner of Room to Move Dance and Fitness since February 2012
Enjoying pole fitness since 2010, belly dancing since 2008 & teaching Zumba since 2012.
Teaches: Zumba, Cardio Hooping, dance choreo, Bellydance and Flying stretch.
Biography
Born in Jamaica, but coming to Canada as just a baby, Diana has also lived in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. Diana's family finally settled down in beautiful BC. PoCo, to be exact. Now she lives with her husband, Mike. Diana is the ultimate ‘80s girl, if it’s pink and/or sparkly, she wants it. Diana has scoliosis and had to have steel rods put in her back at the age of 14. You would think that this may have discouraged her, but she has put herself out there and has seen first hand the physical and emotional benefits of pole fitness. She has a big heart and a great passion to see all women find something that makes them feel the same way. Diana’s opportunity to break into the fitness industry happened recently and quickly, when the fear of losing our studio and our “pole family” prompted her into action. Forever a team player and open to new ideas, Diana is well on her way to providing women in the lower mainland with the tools and “Room to Move” that they need to find themselves, regain their confidence, and get healthy.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I don’t want to be in pain when I am old! I am in enough pain now... I need to get to a point where I am not, so I can avoid other problems that come with age.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
I like making things, like jewelry and cards, riding my scooter, singing and playing guitar, veggie gardening, and playing with my kitties. I collect hobbies though, so that's just a sample.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?
My Ugg boots, & my slip on Sketcher sandals, because I can still ride the scooter in my boots, & I don’t like having to lace shoes up.
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
50 lists of random thoughts I write down in a day, a Palm Pilot from the year 2000 with my entire life in it (even though I also have an iPhone), and a pair of foot nylons because I love shoe shopping.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
In 5 years, I should be mortgage free, still running a dance and fitness studio, and learning to cook with Mike in my new kitchen
that I designed. (or am in the process of designing at the moment.....it got put on hold when I took on opening a dance studio.) :-)
Diana is the owner and operator of Room to Move Fitness, the big boss if you will, but don’t call her that, cause she prefers to be thought of as "one of the gang."
Fitness Profile:
Owner of Room to Move Dance and Fitness since February 2012
Enjoying pole fitness since 2010, belly dancing since 2008 & teaching Zumba since 2012.
Teaches: Zumba, Cardio Hooping, dance choreo, Bellydance and Flying stretch.
Biography
Born in Jamaica, but coming to Canada as just a baby, Diana has also lived in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. Diana's family finally settled down in beautiful BC. PoCo, to be exact. Now she lives with her husband, Mike. Diana is the ultimate ‘80s girl, if it’s pink and/or sparkly, she wants it. Diana has scoliosis and had to have steel rods put in her back at the age of 14. You would think that this may have discouraged her, but she has put herself out there and has seen first hand the physical and emotional benefits of pole fitness. She has a big heart and a great passion to see all women find something that makes them feel the same way. Diana’s opportunity to break into the fitness industry happened recently and quickly, when the fear of losing our studio and our “pole family” prompted her into action. Forever a team player and open to new ideas, Diana is well on her way to providing women in the lower mainland with the tools and “Room to Move” that they need to find themselves, regain their confidence, and get healthy.
Q&A
What motivates you to stay healthy?
I don’t want to be in pain when I am old! I am in enough pain now... I need to get to a point where I am not, so I can avoid other problems that come with age.
What are some activities/hobbies you enjoy outside of the studio?
I like making things, like jewelry and cards, riding my scooter, singing and playing guitar, veggie gardening, and playing with my kitties. I collect hobbies though, so that's just a sample.
If you could choose only two pairs of shoes to wear for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?
My Ugg boots, & my slip on Sketcher sandals, because I can still ride the scooter in my boots, & I don’t like having to lace shoes up.
What are three strange things someone might find in your purse right now?
50 lists of random thoughts I write down in a day, a Palm Pilot from the year 2000 with my entire life in it (even though I also have an iPhone), and a pair of foot nylons because I love shoe shopping.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? 20? Long term goals you are working towards?
In 5 years, I should be mortgage free, still running a dance and fitness studio, and learning to cook with Mike in my new kitchen
that I designed. (or am in the process of designing at the moment.....it got put on hold when I took on opening a dance studio.) :-)
