Workshops

Post date: Feb 15, 2011 10:45:35 AM

Hey guys,

It's been a hectic few weeks and I haven't had time to update this blog after my workshops with Becca Butcher and Maxine Betts. I know some of you have been waiting to hear how they went.

As you'd imagine, they were fantastic! Becca was so very lovely and so incredibly enthusiastic. I got to work on some moves I'd only ever seen in her videos before, including the terrifyingly-named "flying dislocator". I promise it hurt a lot less than it sounds like it should. Becca's delight in every student achievement was infectious and I think it's safe to say that everyone present felt welcomed, valued and wanting to do their best. I learned a lot from her, not just in terms of moves but also teaching style and stretching choices.

Two days later, I had my day-long workshop with Maxine. She is a true inspiration, achieving more than most people believe is possible whilst suffering from a debilitating illness. Of course, this did mean that I couldn't use my sore muscles from Thursday as an excuse!

It was a very hard day, with an intensive conditioning workout, nutrition discussion as well as 4 hours on the pole and Maxine's infamous "abs attack". She prompted us to really think about what we wanted, not just from the pole, but from life in general, as well as giving us training regimes and nutrition plans based on what we hoped to achieve. I'll be honest and say that the new plan is incredibly demanding and not always the tastiest option, but I can already feel the benefits.

I now have loads of new moves and combinations to work on, a whole body conditioning workout to get used to and host of new (mostly painful, but definitely worthwhile) exercises and approaches to pass on to my students. The most important thing I took from the workshops, though, was observing how these incredible women inspire their students. They were both perfect examples of how to make people feel valued, respected and how to adapt your teaching to the aims and desires of your students.

Now I get to live up to their example.

Much love

N

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