01/08/2026
Hi, I’m Gemma. 👋
If you’re new here, I thought it was time I properly introduced myself; not just as a pole instructor, but as the woman behind Northumbria Pole.
I’ve been teaching pole for almost 9 years, and I genuinely believe it’s about so much more than learning tricks. It’s about discovering what you’re capable of, building confidence, finding your people and celebrating what your body can do.
But I also want to share something a little more personal…
I’m navigating perimenopause.
Like so many women, there are days when I don’t quite feel like myself. My confidence wavers. Anxiety appears out of nowhere. Brain fog creeps in. My emotions feel bigger than they used to. You can look like yourself on the outside and still feel completely different on the inside.
As someone who works in fitness, movement has become one of the biggest acts of self-care in my life. It doesn’t make me immune to hormonal changes, but it reminds me that my body is still strong, capable and worthy of kindness; even on the days when my mind is trying to convince me otherwise.
If you’ve been putting off trying pole because your body’s changing, your confidence has taken a knock, or you simply don’t feel like yourself anymore… I understand more than you might think.
The wonderful thing about our studio is that you don’t have to arrive feeling confident.
You don’t need to be fit enough.
You don’t need to be strong enough.
You don’t need to have it all together.
You just need to walk through the door.
Whether you’re 25 or 55, a complete beginner or someone returning after years away, you’ll be welcomed exactly as you are.
My hope is that when you leave class, you’ll feel just a little stronger; not just physically, but mentally too.
So if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time…
Take this as your sign.
I’d love to welcome you into our little community. 💜
