was becoming popular in places like California and thought she’d try it here. “It really took off,” says Sanford.
move the body in endless circular motions creating a more consistent and fluid flow of energy.”
Within a year, she moved to a larger downtown location where she remained for nine years. “While I was there, pole and acrobatics evolved into a full aerial program. We got into aerial silks and aerial hoop and now we do trapeze, as well.”
The classes offered at the studio are a varied mix, which appeals to a range of clients, from children to young professionals to seniors. “It’s very diverse and the diversity is what allows me to offer different things at all different times of the day.”
The business moved to City Centre Atlantic in Halifax, above Pete’s Fine Foods, a year and a half ago. They now have 5,000 square feet of space, with four separate studios. “Our students love our more convenient location with parking in the building.”
As Pilates is rehabilitative, many of Studio in Essence’s clients are recovering from an injury, but Sanford didn’t want the studio to feel like a hospital. She wanted to make it different.
Sanford has spent the past 10 years studying GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS®, travelling all over the world to study with the best Master Trainers in this method. She recently acquired a new machine called the Archway, which is the only one of its kind in Atlantic Canada. “It’s like a monkey bar for adults. The rungs of the ladder help you stretch and strengthen in new ways that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. The machine’s system of pulleys and rotating disks
“When I first started Pilates I found the options where you go to be clinical. I felt uncomfortable in that environment. It felt like going to physio. We work with a lot of people post-rehab, but we try to make it fun so the studio is very colourful, full of natural light and artistic.” An important part of Studio In Essence is acrobatic dance. Sanford began this journey as the first Atlantic female DJ in 1995. She quickly grew tired of playing records and became one of the first and top female breakdancers in Canada. Ten years ago she switched gears to pole and aerial arts, where she has performed and
YOUR HEALTH
“Gyrotonic has helped me be pain free following my car accident. The stretching, fluid movements of Gyrotonic has helped me strengthen and rehabilitate my neck, shoulders and back. Christy is a wonderful, positive, patient teacher. I enjoy my sessions and my body feels great.” – Dr. Kathy Montgomery, client
competed across Canada ever since. A master trainer, Sanford loves to share her enthusiasm for fitness with others and in addition to personal training, she offers certification in aerial, pole fitness, Pilates mat, Pilates reformer and Gyrotonic. Email studioinessence@gmail.com for more information.
Studio In Essence 1535 Dresden Row Suite 203 902.405.5500 studioinessence@gmail.com www.studioinessence.com
ReFINEd HALIFAX
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