All genders, abilities, ages and fitness levels are welcome at Tempest.
Do you have free parking?
We have FREE PARKING at Tempest Dance Studio Durham. Please pick up a PARKING PERMIT from class on arrival to display on your dashboard to avoid any charges.
I’m unfit and overweight, are your classes suitable for me?
Absolutely. Everyone works at their own pace and pole dance and aerial provides a great mix of aerobic exercise and toning. If you have any concerns you should have a chat with your GP before embarking on a new exercise programme but everyone is welcome.
I have a physical disability / injury – can I take part?
We encourage everyone to work with what they can do, rather than focus on what they can’t, but if you have an injury that is not healed (such as a muscle strain) it is best to let your body rest while it repairs itself. Let your instructor know, in private if you prefer, of any condition you have so we can make reasonable adjustments and manage any risk. If you have a disability we are happy to work with you to find out how best to help you take part.
Can I cancel or amend my booking?
Of course. If you contact us via email info@tempestdancestudio.com 24 hours or more before the start of your session we can cancel and refund or move your class to another date. Don’t worry if you don’t get an immediate reply, if you contact us in time we will always change your class. If you contact us less than 24 hours prior to your class time we will not be able to refund or amend your booking at all.
What should I wear for class?
Pole: Pole moves require a good grip on the pole, so bare arms and legs are perfect. Ideally wear short shorts and a vest top. If you feel uncomfortable feel free to wear tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt at first, but please be aware this will limit the number of moves you can learn.
Aerial: Aerial moves can cause some chafing and bruising so leggings and a t-shirt that covers the armpits are ideal. For hoop and trapeze you may need to cover your arms and knees so legwarmers are a great accessory. Some of our Hoops are un-taped so you may wish to wear shorts for Hoop to allow you to feel more secure.
Jewellery can cause injuries and damage the kit so we ask you to remove all jewellery before class . Don’t use any body lotion or hand cream on the day of your lesson as they make the kit slippery!
We work in bare feet in scheduled classes but certain workshops and parties we dance in high heels. We only allow official pole shoes such as Pleasers or Hella Heels.
What’s the difference between scheduled classes, private lessons, workshops and parties?
Scheduled classes are regular classes open to anyone over 14 years (aerial) 16 years (pole) 6 years (kids Aerial).
Private lessons are just that, a private session for one person or a small group of friends. They’re perfect for anyone who is a bit shy about joining a group or feels like they need extra help, or someone who wants to progress quickly, or work on an audition or competition piece.
Workshops are occasional sessions which are pre-booked and have limited numbers. We also run workshops from other disciplines, such as Hula Hoop, Sound Healing, Burlesque, Salsa Dance, etc. We recently have had workshops by Heidi Hildersley, Rachel Britton and Pheonix Fire Arts
Parties are fun, often themed, sessions for hen parties and birthdays. The focus is on having a giggle, learning cheeky moves and short choreographies, and participants leave with photos and prizes!
Do you teach men?
Absolutely. We regularly teach men as we don’t think this dance and fitness discipline should be limited to women. Contact us to find out which classes will be best for you!
What do you mean by Pole Dancing?
We use pole for fitness and fun. We encourage women and men to feel good about their bodies. Those who want to can have a lot of fun and gain confidence with sexy dance moves and we offer heels classes. However, at Tempest we mostly focus on pole fitness building strength and getting more flexible. Advanced pole requires a lot of strength and discipline. We can even offer family pole sessions which is great for budding gymnasts.
What are the age are limits for classes?
We have no upper age limit and have had students starting pole in their 60/70s.
Kids classes: Aerial 6 years + (4 years + for Family Aerial)
Adult classes: Pole 16 years +, Aerial 14 years +.
We are able to provide private lessons for adults and children of all ages and abilities.
