Jacqueline Valdez, 40, Studio Owner of Elegant Body Pilates/Professional Dancer, Gainesville, Florida
Why do you do Pole Dance and Pilates? I do Pole Dance and Pilates mostly to stay fit, keep myself mobile and to relieve stress. I enjoy these activities the most because they make me feel good and I like the results. Pole dancing and Pilates are both fun and rewarding. I have my studio because I love helping others get fit in fun and unique ways.
How long have you been doing Pole Dance and Pilates? I have been involved in the Pole world for 2 years. Dance, Pilates and Yoga have been a part of my life since I was young. I have had my studio, Elegant Body Pilates since 2000.
Do you compete? Yes, I was one of the top ten Florida Pole athletes competing in the first ever Florida Pole and Fitness Championship in 2012.
Most challenging aspect of Pole Dance and Pilates? The amount of flexibility and strength needed to pole dance is definitely challenging when you reach an advanced level. Meeting with excellent instructors can be complicated because I have to travel to their studios in order to learn new techniques. Sometimes recovering from a hard workout is difficult and takes longer than normal because I have Sjogrens’ Syndrome, and I was also in a few different accidents.
Most fun aspect of Pole Dance and Pilates? Learning new tricks and spins on the pole is fun. Seeing myself get stronger and more flexible is also exciting.
Most rewarding aspect of Pole Dance and Pilates? The most rewarding aspect of pole dancing is showing others the beauty of it. I have a unique style and I love developing it. I love to tell a story and create something beautiful.
Who inspires you when you’re feeling weak? My mother and father inspire me. They both passed away from illnesses and were incredible people. When I think of how strong they were and what they went through, it helps me to push through without giving up. I hope to follow in their footsteps and inspire others.
Advice for others who’d like to get started? For those who want to get started in Pole Dance and Pilates, I would suggest to begin with a positive attitude. Don’t be hard on yourself, take it day by day and listen to your body. Find an instructor you feel safe and comfortable with.
Your must-have equipment for Pole Dance and Pilates? A pole and Pilates’ machine are my two must-have pieces of exercise equipment.
Favorite training song? I like a wide range of music, but I guess I would have to say Hip Hop seems to be my top choice for working out.
Favorite healthy food? Tempeh sandwiches.
Favorite not-so-healthy food? Pizza and chocolate-glazed donuts.
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience doing Pole Dance and Pilates? The funniest moment I had was when I was doing a new pole trick. The friction on my leg was so intense that the pain was unbearable and I screamed at the pole to let me go as my leg was stuck. My friend was recording me at the time, so it was also awkward and not the most graceful moment I have had on the pole!
