Meet the team
Established in 2011, Mind body and pole is a small business built from word of mouth and lots of hard work. Our classes are inclusive and innovative, welcoming students from all walks of life. Our aim is to prove that fitness really can be fun! MBP has been certified as an Approved Pole Dance School by the Pole Dance Community. This represents the highest level of professionalism and teaching quality within the pole fitness industry. We are also an Approved Studio with the Pole Safe Federation.
Our Instructors are qualified, insured, first aid trained and DBS checked.
Leanne Waugh
Owner & Instructor
HISTORY
Leanne started pole in 2006 and was instantly hooked, despite not being a natural!
As an Instructor, Leanne loves to make her classes fun and get to know each student. She is hot on technique and her greatest passion is choreography, which she adores putting together and teaching. Leanne does not come from a gymnastic or dance background and has never stepped foot in a gym; making her proof that anyone can join our classes!
FUN FACT!
Alongside Mind body and pole, Leanne had a 12 year career as a Kitchen Designer before having her two children. She now also runs a laser hair removal clinic from her home in Mytchett.
Emily Walke
Pole Instructor
HISTORY
Emily first started Pole in her final year of uni in 2012 when her friend suggested it and she instantly got the bug! Despite many failed gym memberships over the years; pole kept pulling her back in for more! Emily started classes at MBP in 2017 after her husband bought her vouchers for Christmas; Leanne hasn't been able to get her out of the Studio since! Her energetic personality makes her a fun Instructor; she'll work you hard but will keep you smiling through the pain!
FUN FACT!
Emily loves to always have a project on the go. Whether it be home improvement, crocheting baby blankets or baking cakes; Emily loves to be busy!
Ellie Hanrahan
Pole & Children's Instructor
HISTORY
Ellie first started pole classes in 2012 and instantly fell in love with it. In 2017 she joined classes at our Studio. Ellie felt welcome, made lots of friends and progressed amazingly, making her the perfect fit to join the team as an Instructor. Ellie’s bubbly nature will make you feel at ease and at home in the Studio whilst you work together on your goals.
FUN FACT!
In Ellie’s spare time she enjoys being with her husband and two daughters, socialising and doing the splits everywhere she goes!
Jo Mardles
Pole Instructor
HISTORY
Jo started pole in 2016 after a friend suggested it and was hooked right from the start. After years of never sticking to the gym or other fitness classes; nothing made her feel proud of herself like pole did. Jo has a huge passion for people, which shines through in her fun and positive classes; Jo wants to ensure your time at the Studio is the best part of your week!
FUN FACT!
Jo is into anything creative...making videos of weddings/birthdays/events, decorating and making personalised frames. She has recently returned to teaching after having a gorgeous baby boy!
Beccy Scholes
Aerial Hoop Instructor
HISTORY
Beccy first came to an aerial hoop class in 2017 here at Mind body and pole and instantly fell in love with it. She has a passion to teach and loves watching students progress and strive. She believes anyone with a positive determined attitude will come to her hoop class and never look back! Beccy has a national diploma in professional dance and works in the entertainment industry.
FUN FACT!
When Beccy isn't in a hoop or dance studio, she loves spending time practicing yoga, cooking new yummy recipes and spending time with family and friends.
Zara Dieck
Pole, Hoop & Children's Instructor
HISTORY
Zara joined our Studio in 2022 and has gone from strength to strength, attending multiple classes. Zara is a fun and attentive Instructor, adjusting her teaching style between the adult and children's classes.
FUN FACT!
Zara works as a Video Game Producer in her day job, and when not at work or in the Studio, she can be found curled up with a board game or a good book.
Lauren Howes
Pole Instructor
HISTORY
After trying the gym, but lacking motivation, Lauren started pole in 2020, and it fast became the highlight of her week! She now attends multiple classes a week, making her a familiar and friendly face within the Studio. Lauren will break down each move and ensure everyone in her classes are comfortable and challenged.
FUN FACT!
As well as hanging upside-down, Lauren loves to bake anything with chocolate - brownies being her speciality!
Katharine Dobrzycki
Pole & Children's Instructor
HISTORY
Katharine started pole in 2019 and has recently found a passion for hoop too. She is a qualified cheerleading coach and has also taught gymnastics. Her wealth of knowledge and skills are so useful when helping our juniors. She is a patient and fun Instructor who loves seeing all the achievements in classes for both adults and children.
FUN FACT!
Katharine is a keen baker - her cakes are incredible and definitely Bake-Off worthy! When at the Studio, Katharine will always be seen poling in her socks!
Hayley Timms
Hayley has attended classes with us on and off right from the start in 2011, and now her daughter also attends classes! Her years of experience and dedication to the Studio make her the perfect fit to assist in our children's classes.
Becci Carroll
Becci has been a student since 2018 and is one of our most advanced aerial hoop students! Her knowledge and passion are so valuable when assisting the children and teens.