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Does this sound right to you?
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I agree with nymphdancer's comment:
"I perfer multi level classes so the more advanced students are learning more advanced versions of the same move :)"
I lucked out with my studio. I did level 1 with a group of friends, and only a few of us are actually planning to continue. Due to the location of the studio, it is easier for the others to go to the downtown studio for level 2 when it opens in another month. I however, plan to continue at the original studio as it is actually closer to my home. I completely lucked out with how flexible my teacher is – she allowed me to join a small level 3/4 class. Becuase it is smaller, she is able to give us personal attention, and teach me level 2 on my own. The nice thing too is that since I have already proven to be physically stronger than what she anticipated, she has challenged me to try one handed spins and felt comfortable starting me on level 2 early. Now that I have changed to this other class, it seems I will be able to progress at my own pace rather than that of the entire class. I also just ordered my own pole to practice on at home to help my progression along. I would say my teacher is more of a ham than a show-off 😛 She is very good about letting us see snippits of what's to come and I feel it keeps us motivated, but in no way does she ever use class time to steal the show, or use it as an opportunity for us to dote over her abilities – like MariYabe, it's gerally only by request.
Perhaps you can see if there is a multi-level class option available to you? Maybe the slower paced teacher would be able to accomodate you in a higher level class, but still allow you to work at your own pace. Have you talked to her about it? Its possible she recognized your strength and that you are in need of more of a challenge, but feels held back herself becuase of the class' progression as a whole? Try talking to her and see what comes of it 😀
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So glad that I got to read the posts! Does anyone have any suggestions for specific things to look for and ask for when seeking out a studio? Trying to narrow down a studio so I can continue to be motivated after being off the pole for a few months.
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To the OP – the advanced instructor doesn't sound like she's much of an instructor at all and if I were you I would share my experiences with the owner. Consumer feedback is really important, other girls may be feeling the same way nad just too afraid to say something. Even if it's an anonymous email – you need to let the owner know what's going on.
The slow teacher – I am kind of the slow teacher at our studio although I prode myself on finding variations for everyone in the room. I think that while I don't ecpext everyone to like what they are learning every class, let's face it, we all have moves we hate, whether we hate doing them or think they're ugly, I expect everyone to try. I don't expect everyone to be perfect and polished at everything but there are certain requirements that must be met by the student before they can move into more advanced moves. I tend to beleive that instructors should determine this on an individual basis rather than a class basis, HOWEVER, I certainly see the reasoning behind wanting the class a whole to be on the same level. Are there things you can polish up and perfect with the slow teacher? I would spend my time owning each and every move until they are flawless if I had a slower teacher. I would use it to my advantage.
It's important when going to a studio to inquire about their program and views on pole dancing. For example my program is twice a week. I beleive and encourage students to come 2x's a week, 1 strictly dance class and 1 tricks class. It's hard to cover all of the bases in a singel class which is why I developed 45 min dance classes like my signature SexyFIT which focuses on transitions, floorwork, basic spins and putting those things together in a routine. I have senior students still in the basic classes because there are as manny variaitions on the basics as there are on tricks. Secondly, I think pole tricks need to be taught safely and TIME needs to be given to students in order to focus soley on the trick, the body mechanics and the technique…once a trick is perfected then it's time to learn how to include in the dance. 2 classes for 2 different things that both require time and practice.
With that example I encourage students to ask studios about their philosophies, their program, what are you getting? Will you learn a routine? Are you able to advance in your time or are you required to move with the rest of the class? Are you going to learn to dance by yourself without an instructor calling moves out? Can they care for your needs at your level? Do they offer supplemental classes? How far into your journey can they take you?
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