Chester's inclusive fitness studio gears up to celebrate one year
A Boughton dance and fitness studio is gearing up to celebrate its first anniversary,
Alicia Jelley opened the doors to 'Poise' on Christleton Road last May, creating a space dedicated to getting adults enjoying all the benefits of dance and movement.
Mother-of-two, Alicia, wanted to focus on creating an inclusive space which fosters a joy of movement, as opposed to creating fear and resentment around exercise.
As a dancer throughout childhood and her teenage years, Alicia eventually gave up on the sport due to the stigma around body-type expectation and the difficulties posed by trying to achieve the 'dancer body'.
She later rediscovered her passion for dance following a 13 year hiatus.
After having two children and suffering a marriage breakdown, she returned to the sport in a teaching capacity - soon realising the importance of dance in finding and healing herself.
The studio owner spoke to Chester Nub News about what the past year has looked like, after finally achieving her dream of opening an inclusive dance space.
Describing the first part of the year, she said: "The studio is doing really well.
"It has been a busy old time already this year. We're still building but we had a fantastic January so it looks hopeful.
"We offer a bit of everything. That ranges from dance fit, circuits, pilates, barre, yoga...to dance classes such as ballet, commercial, heels and even a bit of wellness.
"There's something for everyone.
"We basically just try to get people moving and enjoying movement rather than seeing it as a chore."
Reflecting on the community space she has formed within the studio, she pointed to a shared love of movement.
Alicia added: "We've got such a lovely community that come here.
"That's why it was really important to me to have a sort of chill out area.
"People can sit before and after class and have a nice chat. And they do- they come and have a coffee or a tea.
"It just creates a space where people can come in, have a chat and get to know other people in the classes."
Throughout the whole of May, the studio has arranged a selection of events to celebrate its first year- including Poise's "biggest giveaway yet" with prizes from local businesses.
On 9 May It is also set to host its first ever showcase, at St Mary's Creative Space.
Proving you're never too old and it's not too late to pick up dance, the studio's dancers will perform a range of styles and routines for an evening celebrating movement and artistry.
You can find Alicia's website here to look into the wide range of classes offered at the studio.
Check out Poise's socials to keep up to date with their anniversary celebrations.
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