Inspired by the taut abs and toned triceps of exotic pole dancers, Tracy Gray and Christine Boyer opened Aradia Fitness in Vancouver and have since franchised across Canada. The clothes don't come off, but the inches?and inhibitions'do. ?Pilates and yoga are great, but they were invented by a man for a man's body,? says Gray. Moves such as the ?fireman spin? and the ?sexy bicycle? tone without sacrificing curves. Swinging around a brass pole strengthens arms and whittles away waistlines. It's an incredible core workout without the drudgery of sit-ups, says Gray. But where students really get hot and bothered is during the sultry floor workouts. Runners rave about how the butt gyrations loosen tight hips. Most women save their new confidence and choreography for the bedroom, says Gray, but at least one former student has gone pro. Also offered are lap-dance classes and regular field trips to real (but closed) strip bars where students can strut their stuff.
What to wear: Baggy sweats aren't sexy and they get caught on the pole. Think form-fitting pants or shorts. Experts graduate to high-heels.
