Community Highlights: Meet Janine Cooper of Aradia Fitness

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janine Cooper

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2009, I was completing my Master’s degree in the Washington, DC area, and was interested in taking a pole fitness class. I read a news article about it, and was intrigued. After taking my first class, I was hooked. It was such an amazing workout. I loved the strength and beauty of it. As I progressed, I decided to get certified to be a pole and group fitness instructor. I went on to teach at the studio where I started as a student. I later moved to Raleigh, NC and commuted to teach and manage at studios in the Charlotte area. After teaching and managing in Charlotte, I decided to instruct in the Raleigh area full-time. After being an instructor at Aradia Fitness in Cary, I later became the Managing Partner, and now, sole Owner of the studio. I have competed in several national pole dance fitness competitions, performed in showcases, trained instructors, and taught workshops across the country and internationally.

My undergraduate degree is in Radio-Television from the University of Central Florida, with a Minor in History. My Masters degree is in Communications and Public Affairs from American University. I have worked and interned in several news stations, as well as production companies. I had the honor of working with Emmy-award winning Investigative Reporting and Producing Teams.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
At the end of the day, I am a small business owner, and owning a fitness and movement studio is what we call a “labor of love.” I own this studio because it’s a passion of mine. This is something that I love…it is my outlet…it is my happy place. There are days that are frustrating for all business owners, especially SMALL business owners. It’s hard out here. Being not only a minority, but being now, a black-owned business has presented its’ obstacles. However, I am a firm believer in hard work. I work hard, do my best, and put the time and effort into this business. I believe that when you put good into the universe, it comes back to you tenfold. This business has helped me as an instructor, and just as a person, to always learn, grow, and to stay committed, and to aim to always get better. It’s not easy, and may take a toll on you mentally and physically some days, but you strive and make it through, stronger and better.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Aradia Fitness?
I am the owner and instructor at a pole/aerial, group fitness, and movement studio. We specialize in pole fitness classes, silks, lyra, sling, aerial yoga, group fitness, and movement classes. I am proud of the diversity in my clientele. That is the best thing about my studio. The different sea of faces and people, instructors, and staff. It is an all-inclusive studio that is accepting of everyone who wants to have fun and those who want to feel good about themselves. This sets the studio apart from others, as well as our variety of classes and styles. There is something for everyone.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Pole has become more mainstream now. The industry has only grown bigger, and will continue to grow, which is a great thing. With more competitions, Olympics chatter, media and social media growth, people are starting to see pole fitness for the sport that it is. We are athletes, dancers, movement specialists, professionals. The industry went from little structure, hardly any certifications, and having stigmas attached to it, to studios with curriculum and certification programs. More people want to learn and be open to it. People are starting to give it the respect that it’s always deserved.

Pricing:

• $25 for 1-drop in pole/aerial class
• Class Pack options in increments of 4, 8, and 12
• All-Access Membership contract option for unlimited pole/aerial and group fitness classes

Contact Info:

• Website: https://triangle.aradiafitness.com
• Instagram: @aradiafitnessnc, @jboogiekan1
• Facebook: Aradia Fitness Cary
• Other: https://app.schedulehouse.com/SH/Client/009101

Image Credits
Austin Dowd Photography
Alloy Images
Xenia DeLuze
Janine Cooper