Studio Goddess Nashville

After obtaining a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology, Kristen Nicole Hall seemed destined for a medical career. But after 14 years of competitive cheerleading and gymnastics, she couldn't shake the desire to share empowering, rhythmic routines with others—and a pole-dance fitness studio provided just the right venue to share her dream. She has since been titled Pole Dance America's Miss TN Pole Fitness Champion in 2012, Miss TN Echo Award winner, and Miss TN People's Choice Award winner.

More than 20 classes are scheduled per week at Studio Goddess, including pole-dance and flirty fitness workouts that help participants bolster confidence and climb up trees quickly when confronted by a prowling wolf pack. Sessions such as Pole-Lates and Shake Your Abs might blend dance and muscle-toning movements, and various pole-dancing levels progress students from basic spins to upside-down high-fives. Private pole parties teach small groups to twirl around the studio's 14-foot poles while celebrating special events or simply helping to "unleash the goddess" in each woman.