FAQ

Got questions about the E-fit Dance program? This is your place to look! If you can’t find your answer here, please do not hesitate to contact us at the studio

What is E-fit Dance?

Exotic Fitness Dance (E-Fit Dance) is for every woman who wants to discover herself, her body, get in excellent shape and have fun at the same time! E-Fit Dance is about self-exploration, finding and getting in touch with your inner grace and beauty. Our goal at E-Fit is to provide qualified and supportive instruction in a fun, caring and safe environment. You will gain confidence, learn how to empower yourself, overcome fears, improve balance and “poise” and even put some spice into your life and relationships.

What is the history of our E-fit Dance program at the studio?

The E-fit program was started in late 2003 by Steve Shergold as a program of Shergold Studio.  This experimental program designed to self empower women started with one pole class teaching pole moves, choreography and shooting a DVD at the end of the class.  The original instructor and Steve jointly trained for and developed the first classes using a handful of “stage poles”.  Erica Shergold (Laci~Rose), Steve’s wife, started in the program as a student and moved to instructor in 2004 further developing the program and becoming Programs Director.   Through successive years the classes have grown in size and number to over 100 ladies in many different styles of dance at two studios.  Each instructor adds their knowledge and experience to the classes, making it the wonderfully diverse program it is today. The program is completely independent of the social dance program having its own schedule and business model.

When do the next series of five and ten week classes start?

For up to the minute information on when classes start, please visit our Registration page. The registration page will show classes that may be currently available for signing up or dropping in to, and how many spaces are left. For ongoing schedule of classes underway or to check your classes check out the Calendar .

What is the latest that I can join a class series already under way?

For most of our classes the latest you can start is one week late. You may also do catch up private lessons. After that time you will either have to join an alternate class or wait for the next series.

Intro to Pole, Explore E-Fit, Stretch and Strength, our 5 week Belly dance class, Technique pole classes and Men’s pole tricks are classes that you may join at any time. Drop ins are welcome in these classes so long as there is space, with a $19 drop in rate for Pole and a $15 drop in rate for Stretch and $14 drop in rate for 5 week Belly dance.

What will the class be like?

All of the E-Fit classes take you through a dance style specific warm-up and cool down to start and finish each class. Each class teaches you the tools needed for that specific dance style depending on the type of class you have chosen.  Some classes focus on the aerobic aspect, some on choreography, some on technique and some have a mix.    Free expression and creativity is strongly encouraged, and pushing your own envelope.  There are no “wrong” moves!  Take the basic steps and techniques we go over in class and make them your own, as we all feel and move our bodies in different ways.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing. Close-fitting gym clothes (leggings, shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, etc.) are very practical. Also something you feel good in! Be sexy yet sporty. Bare feet are great for Exotic I, Intro to Pole, Beginner pole, Burlesque I and Belly dance. Comfortable dance shoes or high heels can be worn for Beg-Adv Pole classes as well as Exotic II and III. There is no requirement or expectation for you to purchase any kind of special clothing.  Your instructor can give you guidance on shoes, and clothing should you have any questions.

Should I bring anything with me?

The most important thing is to bring an open, positive attitude. For several of you, taking one of these classes is something new, exciting and perhaps even a bit risqué. We are here to support each other and learn from what everyone has to offer.

Is there any nudity in this class?

There is no nudity required in any of the classes. The art of  striptease is introduced in the pole, exotic and burlesque classes, but does not require nudity, you push your own envelope.  Note: Belly dance does not involve striptease.

Can I introduce or bring a friend to class?

A new student may come to any of our drop in classes, or sign up for the start of a new series.  If you are a current student and you introduce a friend who signs up for a series of classes, we will give you credit toward your next series (5 week class- $10, 10 week class- $20). Please note however, that we do not allow outside spectators in the class under any circumstances out of respect for the other ladies in the class.

Do I have to do the video shoot / recital at the last class session?

This is for Exotic and Pole classes only, Belly dance and Burlesque do not currently shoot a video: You are not required to shoot a video but we think you will really enjoy this unique experience. Some ladies may think they are not ready by the time we shoot and are likely to repeat the class in order to shoot the next time around. We offer other options as well.  Students may do a photo shoot to document their routine if they do not feel ready to do a video.  We also encourage students to attend the shoot to cheer on their fellow classmates! The five week classes do not feature a shooting session. The videos are shot and produced by our own video production division using professional equipment, staff and facilities turning the studio into a full fledged TV studio. Samples and examples of our video shoots may be seen here.

Can I take private lessons?

You may take private lessons with any of the instructors schedule permitting; the sessions are $50 for 50 minutes duration.  $60 for sharing a 60 minutes lesson with one other student.  We ask that no more than two take private lessons at the same time / session.  We also offer lesson packages in blocks of 4 or 12 lessons with reduced rates for both single or double privates (these privates must be used over a month or 3 month duration depending on the package.) Lessons may be booked by calling the studio or visiting our online booking system.

Can I rent floor space and pole for practice?

You may rent a pole and the floor time for $15 per person per hour. We cannot guarantee that the floor will not be in use for other purposes but we can usually find open times otherwise it would be shared.  Any number of girls may rent a pole at their own discretion up to five poles in use at one time.  Pole rental is for E-Fit students only.

What if I can’t make all the classes?

Some classes offer a sister class.   If it does, you may make up a session by signing up for a makeup in the alternate class.  E-Fit students may also use the Stretch class as a makeup for any E-Fit class they are taking.  There are no credits or refunds for missed times or for dropping out of the class once started.  You can not exchange your missed classes for private lessons. You may however catch up with the class by taking private lessons or by renting a pole for personal practice time.

What is the age range of participants?

The ladies vary in age from their 20s to about 50′s, the oldest participants are 77. The median is probably in the 30s and 40s.  We have college students to high ranking professionals and stay at home moms who take these classes. (Steve’s mum has done the class! and Laci~Rose’ Grandmother holds the record at 77!!) The class is restricted to ladies that are over 18 years of age!  Note- belly dance’s age restriction is 15.

What if I am not a dancer or fitness buff?

All of our entry level  classes are designed for the everyday women to develop fitness, balance, poise, to become more self aware, feel sexier, dance more musically.  You may attain any or all of these qualities over the class. There are no wrong answers or moves, only you’re own interpretation.  Anticipate that it will provide some challenge in any or all of these areas but that you will show constant improvement overall.

Are there any restrictions in the class?

The pole classes are all limited to 10-20 ladies participating at any given time depending on the style of class and the studio the class is offered in.  The class is restricted to those persons who are over the age of eighteen (15 for Belly dance).  There maybe a safety weight limit of approximately 200lbs in some classes (consult an instructor for information regarding weight and safety).  There are no spectators allowed in the classes.

What are your refund policies?

Our complete Terms & Conditions may be found on this page. In general we do not offer refunds for classes except under extraneous circumstances.