By Lauren Maughan

Last updated at 12:00, Thursday, 02 August 2012

Pole dancing is the latest keep fit craze to hit Carlisle.

Lara Wells, front, with Chloe Richardson

Now former mind reader and psychic Lara Wells is hoping to rid the exercise regime of its racy image.

Lara, 43, has recently turned her hand to teaching pole dancing and runs several classes a week in the Carlisle area.

Interest in her classes, which she says, combine fitness and fun, is “phenomenal.”

A spokesperson from The Purple Lotus in Treasury Court of Fisher Street in Carlisle agreed: “We have definitely noticed an increase in the popularity of pole dancing. We have also benefited and have had people from Newcastle to teach classes here.”

Lara says many people should rethink their misconceptions about pole dancing.

She said: “I really think people should give it a try. It is very artistic and creative. Actually it takes a lot of skill to master. The attitude that some people have towards the skill really represses women.”

She said the demand had increased at a rapid rate.

“The difference I have seen in these women is amazing. They can come and let their hair down and just have fun. One of my classes is the equivalent of doing four hours in the gym, so it’s a great work out.”

Lara explained that along with improving their fitness she also hopes to improve the confidence of the women she teaches.

She said: “I can really motivate these women.

“Even if people don’t have the strength to start off with, I can teach them techniques – there is always something they can do.

“We only have classes of 12 so we can individually work through the steps. Everyone is different and can gain individual training.”

Wayne Messenger, assistant health and fitness manager at the Sands Centre said this form of fitness was a great addition to their timetable.

“We have definitely seen an increase in popularity in pole dancing. Here at the Sands Centre we like to offer a range of options for fitness and this method is no different. It helps with shaping, toning and calorie loss. Lara herself is great. She brings a great presence to the class and really comes alive when she is teaching. I really hope with this class we can diminish the stigma attached to pole dancing.”

Lara says she has members of all shapes and sizes in her classes.

“After the first class you may feel like you don’t want to come back but people do and after three weeks the difference in the women is incredible.”

Lara attended pole dancing classes herself for a year and a half but has just been teaching since April.

She is a mother of four with her daughter, 10, also attending the class.

Lara worked as a medium for six or seven years and toured all over the country. She combines these skills to motivate the women.

Mark Davis, a yoga instructor who runs classes in Cumbria, said: “I actually have one girl who attends my yoga class, that also attends pole dancing classes and I encourage her to go.

“It is great for your posture.”

Lara's classes take place at Carlisle's Sands Centre and Atlas Works, Nelson Street, Denton Holme. Call 07809 503042.

First published at 11:26, Thursday, 02 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk