World-class athletes lead unusual classes at independent London gym.

World-class athletes and acrobatic dancers are among those leading incredible classes at an independent London gym.

The Factory, a gym in Archway offering a range of workouts from traditional weights to dance, is among those championing ‘pole’ as a brilliant fitness method. As well as running regular classes – a range of talented athletes lead one-off workshops there.

They include Allegra Bird who founded the renowned Pole Art France competition (next workshop 15th June), Dan Rosen (12 UK Championship titles and 1 international title) and Shane Godliman (Best Entertainer - Mr Pole Fitness - next workshop 5th May).

(Orissa Kelly with a student)

Tatianna Donbavand, who runs The Factory’s events programme and regularly teaches pole classes there, said: “We’ve seen a massive influx of former dancers and gymnasts into the sport in recent years – pole dancing is amazing to watch and it’s becoming more recognised as a sport. With pole, the possibilities to improve are endless – there’s always some new way of linking moves together so, as a sport, it has tremendous longevity and it’s something people of all ages and all shapes and sizes can enjoy.

“It’s a great test of coordination, strength and flexibility and a brilliant equaliser.

“We are lucky to have such amazing athletes teaching our workshops – it’s a big thing for a dancer at these skill-levels to come along and teach; they risk injury and that’s a problem when it comes to them competing. But for many it’s reliable, enjoyable work between shows or competitions and a way to make their sport pay.”

(Neil Crafter)

Tatianna, who was raised a Mormon, was a competitive dancer at school with a focus on jazz and contemporary dance. She studied musical theatre in University, where she choreographed for the University's theatre department.

She joined The Factory as a member in 2014 in a bid to make friends when she moved from her home in the US. She added: “When I first did a pole class it was so much harder than I imagined. Although I had a lot of upper body strength, I had little noodle arms! But it was a lot of fun, I kept coming and quickly became addicted! Now my hobby has become my work and I love teaching classes here!”

She added: “When I first started learning, I thought – ‘how am I going to tell my parents I pole-dance every week?’ I was desperate not to disappoint them. But that stigma people attach to pole-dancing is so far off the reality. It’s a sport for everyone – if people want to use it to strip and make money, that’s fine of course but people also use it as a brilliant way of getting fit and it can be enjoyed at any ability level.”

Local Buyers Club members save 10% off membership packages at The Factory. (Info HERE)

See a list of upcoming workshops HERE

Find out more about The Factory Dance and Fitness Centre at www.factorylondon.com

What is the Local Buyers Club?

We're on a mission to help you discover & support the best local & independent businesses.

We've negotiated discounts of up to 30% for our members at dozens of fantastic restaurants, shops, bars and businesses throughout North and East London. We help promote them and raise awareness of the advantages of shopping locally. We also organise and support community initiatives.

Join Local Buyers Club and, for just £12 per year, you'll be helping to support local business and you'll receive a discount card to use at any of the 130+ businesses listed on the site.

Find out how it works and JOIN THE CLUB

Just some of the 130+ local & independent businesses offering discounts to our members: