Today we’d like to introduce you to Kadesia Jenkins.
Hi Kadesia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my pole journey in 2021 simply as a way to step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself in a new way. What started as a hobby quickly became something much deeper—pole transformed into a powerful outlet for self-expression, confidence, and strength, both mentally and physically. As my love for the art grew, so did my desire to share it with others, leading me into instructing, which I’ve now been doing for nearly four years. Today, I’m proud to be the co-owner of Collective Movement Studio in Burlington, North Carolina, a space built on empowerment, creativity, and community. Pole has reshaped not only how I move, but how I see myself, and being able to help others experience that same transformation is the most rewarding part of my journey.
Here at Collective Movement, we offer Yoga, Ballet, Pole Levels 1-5, Burlesque, and many types of strength and stretch classes.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey has definitely not been a smooth, straight line—it’s been full of pauses, rebuilds, and powerful comebacks. During my very first year of pole, I became pregnant with my first son, which led me to step away from pole for about a year. When I returned, I spent the next two years training consistently and became stronger than I had ever been, both physically and mentally. Then I became pregnant with my second son. At that time, I was already instructing, and I made the intentional decision to continue pole throughout my pregnancy, training safely all the way until I was eight months pregnant. While staying active helped me maintain my physicality, postpartum has still required me to essentially start over again—rebuilding strength, stamina, and trust in my body. Pole while pregnant has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done, yet also one of the most empowering experiences of my life. It taught me patience, grace, and deep respect for my body, and that ongoing journey continues to shape both my artistry and the way I show up as an instructor and studio owner.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Artistically, I’ve always identified as a power poler. I’m most in my element when I’m tapping into raw strength—big, powerful movements that remind me just how capable my body is. Pole is an incredibly humbling sport. There are moments where you’re suspending your entire body with just one hand, or finding balance with nothing but grip, control, and the pit of your knee. That challenge is part of what makes pole so fascinating to me. It constantly reveals new possibilities and demands both physical strength and mental focus. As my journey has evolved, I’ve begun exploring all facets of pole—from choreography and low flow to the acrobatics and technical elements—allowing my movement to become more well-rounded and expressive. Being able to move fluidly between power, softness, and creativity has been incredibly fulfilling, and I truly love growing as a versatile poler and artist.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
A book that I love is “Pole Dance Fitness: The Complete Book”. It is a comprehensive training and technique guide with clear descriptions, exercises, transitions, and fitness info for pole dancers of all levels. I find it very helpful when I need references or ideas.
Pricing:
- Intro To Pole $15
- $20 Drop In Any Class
- Standard Membership $100
- Unlimited Membership $135
- 4 Class Pack $70
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.collectivemovementnc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collectivemovementstudio?igsh=MWxieWppOTc0dXBxYQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ASk9rSwFb/?mibextid=wwXIfr
