Edmonton Journal
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Page: D6
Section: Ed
Byline: Olivia Cheng
Source: The Edmonton Journal

Swaying to the seductive sound of some soulful jazz, a room full of women teasingly stroke their thighs, slap their bootylicious derrieres and smile coyly as they straddle their chairs.

No, this isn't some super-hot scene straight out of Showgirls. It's Edmonton's version of the cardio striptease craze currently seducing fitness buffs across North America.

This class isn't just about burning calories, nor is it meant to ignite a burning lust in the ladies. Leah Brignolio-Todd, the Club Fit aerobics instructor who created the course last November, says it's less about stripping than stripping away insecurities.

"This class is specifically for them to let out what they've wanted to let out," says Brignolio-Todd. "If they're a shy type, maybe this is the place where you're not going to be shy. And if you're an outgoing person, then let that shine."

Combining sensual choreography with pilates-like strengthening exercises, the routines incorporate props -- like ties, chairs and sweaters -- to get women moving a la Jessica Alba in Sin City. "When it comes to the moves," says Brignolio-Todd, "it's OK to be able to move your hands down your body, and feel your own curves, and know what needs to be worked on, what's sexy and what's sensual."

But letting go of inhibitions and learning to work what yo' momma gave you can be daunting. To make it easier on students, the studio windows are covered to keep curious outsiders from peeking in.

It also helps, adds student Candyce Ibbutt, that her fellow strippercisers come in "all shapes and sizes. ... Not everybody in here is like a stick so you don't feel totally intimidated."

It's tough to teach the students to have fun and "let that (inner) woman out," admits Brignolio-Todd. Tougher yet is combatting the stigma most people feel when they hear the word "strip" -- even though no one removes any clothing.

Michelle, who didn't want her last name used, calls it a fun alternative form of fitness. "It helped me have a lot more confidence about my physical self; weight has always been an issue for me.

"So to come to a class where it's so positive -- like, 'Love yourself! Touch yourself! Feel yourself!' ... all of a sudden you see all these women going, 'Yeah! I can do this!' "

"It's almost empowering," laughs Adrienne Jansen. "You feel empowered because we're in control and it builds your confidence."

As word of mouth about this confidence-boosting class spreads, Brignolio-Todd is doing what she can to keep up with the demand. She's teaching three extra classes at various Club Fit locations, hosts private parties, and is planning to film a Cardio Strip DVD to be released this June.

She says the most rewarding part about all this is seeing how women learn to love, rather than loathe, their bodies. "It's a part of them they forgot they had. We're all grandmothers, mothers, students, housewives, and business people. But I say we're still women, so let's try and let that out."

For more information about Club Fit's Cardio Strip classes, call the southside location at 461-6333.
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