AusLeisure

A ground-breaking Australian program that combines pole dancing with a controlled eating plan is achieving great results in helping women lose weight, increase muscle tone and build their self confidence.

The BodyFit weight loss program is run by Sydney-based Miss Fit Dance Studio and the Bites Health Clinic, and follows a highly successful eight-week trial with 20 women late last year. This was the first time that a clinical trial had been performed to measure weight loss using pole dancing and a controlled eating plan.

On average, each participant lost over five kilograms during the trial, with one participant losing up to 14kgs and achieving a 47% reduction in her total body fat.

Miss Fit Dance Studio Manager Sarah Thompson explains "as far as we are aware, there is no other fitness program like ours that incorporates both pole dancing and a healthy eating plan, under the guidance of a qualified dietitian, to help women achieve weight loss and fitness results.

"The BodyFit program is unique because there is very close mentoring between the dietitian and the client, which makes it much easier for them to stick to their eating plan and stay on target. On top of that, there is a serious fun factor in a pole dancing class - it is quite unlike other forms of dance or gym classes. Heels are optional but definitely add sexiness to the dance class. Women get to let their hair down and really have fun.

"Pole dancing not only makes you look great but it's a real confidence lifter too. The boost to self esteem is just as important as the physical changes. Also there are great friendships that develop in pole classes - it is a very supportive, non-competitive environment."

Thompson says that pole dancing is fundamentally resistance training as participants learn to carry their body weight on their arms as they spin and lift around a pole. Resistance training is the best way to increase your muscle mass. As muscle requires more energy to be maintained than body fat, even at rest dancers are burning more calories, so the weight stays off.

The BodyFit program is designed for both novice and experienced pole dancers with a range of pole fitness and dance classes to choose from depending on their capability. Each eight- week program includes regular face to face meetings with a qualified dietitian, a customised eating plan, lots of mentoring and support, as well as three pole fitness or dance classes a week.

Participants also keep a food and exercise diary, which is submitted to the dietitian for review throughout the program.

Thompson adds "this is a proven weight loss and fitness program, and follows a professionally structured approach developed by Miss Fit Dance Studio and Bites Health Clinic. It really is taking exercise and weight loss to a whole new level."

Miss Fit Dance Studios are located in the Sydney suburbs of Artarmon and Castle Hill.

For more information go to www.missfit.com.au

19th February 2010 - HOLDING ON WITH MIGHTY GRIP

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