Why can’t wellness be fun—and in neon? That’s the founding principle of Studio Aire (11 Meadow Circle, Lake Saint Louis), a new pole and aerial fitness studio landing in Lake Saint Louis this month.
Owner and instructor Dorothy Burg says she was first inspired to dive into the aerial arts because “it’s one of the most fun and uplifting fitness communities” that she’d ever experienced. The classes don’t just offer a workout, she says; they build upon physical and social skills not found elsewhere.
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“The amount of trust placed in your instructors and peers as you learn how to maneuver around an apparatus while suspended in the air is unlike anything else,” Burg says. “It creates an atmosphere of support and a bond that one might not always find in a regular gym.”
With a soft opening on April 5 and a members-only grand opening on May 18, Burg says the studio is ready to welcome the community to a new kind of fitness, including some offerings that “will be brand new to the St. Louis area.”
The Options
Studio Aire will offer a range of classes for various preferences and levels of expertise. “Our different levels and specialty classes focus on anyone from a beginner with no movement background to those with years of experience,” Burg says. “Everyone can benefit from being in the Aire, and our goal is to provide a safe space for everyone who walks through our doors.”
For people who love to dance, Burg recommends Pole and Aerial choreography. Prefer a fitness challenge? “Pole Sport would be right up their alley,” she says. For those who like to keep both feet on the floor, Burg suggests the Grounded class package, which includes dance, yoga, and HIIT style workouts. And for those who might be intimidated by aerial or pole fitness or who have no prior dance or upper-body strength, Burg says, “Come try a class! It’s the best way to determine if this form of fitness is right for you, and we promise that you will gain upper-body strength as you go. You don’t have to be super strong to start aerial. Strength will come, along with confidence. And we will be cheering you on along the way!”
Burg emphasizes that the classes are open to anyone. “We believe that this form of expression and exercise can benefit people regardless of their fitness level, body type, gender, or age,” Burg says.
She adds that aerial arts impact each participant differently, which is the origin story behind some of the boutique’s specialty classes. “For example, one of the most difficult challenges for some beginners is an invert, [or] any move that requires shoulders below hips–upside down,” Burg explains. “We plan on holding Invert Intensive classes where students will be able to focus on building strength and technique while working through any fear they may have.”
The Benefits
Pole and aerial fitness are low-impact, strength-building, joint-friendly workouts. Burg adds that learning a new, active skill is beneficial for brain health and that the artistic form of expression boosts mental health as well. “Participants are able to see progress in their abilities quite quickly, and that, coupled with the support from their peers, can be a joyful experience,” Burg says. “We may be biased, but we think that aerialists and pole dancers are some of the kindest and strongest individuals we know.”
Burg also stresses the importance of safety. “Safety is always a top priority in any fitness class, but especially in an aerial class where going upside down is part and parcel!” Burg says. Studio Aire will be equipped with proper aerial rigging, mats, and emergency equipment, and instructors are highly trained and CPR-certified, she adds.
The Community
Studio Aire will offer discounted ‘try-it-out’ classes after the Lake Saint Louis Farmers’ Market at the Meadows on Saturdays. Special introductory workshops and events will also be available for those who are curious to see if aerial and pole are right for them. Studio Aire will also host open practice times for members, offering a solution for busy schedules and those who prefer a non-structured environment. And groups can sign up for pole and aerial parties.
Burg hopes that Studio Aire will offer area residents a new type of experience.
“We would like to see aerial and pole become a part of a well-rounded fitness plan, alongside gym routines and Pilates workouts,” she says. “Studio Aire is not just a workout—it’s an experience, and we can’t wait for [people] to see it!”
Looking for more options? Check out these five unique fitness classes in St. Louis.
