Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Studio COVID-19 Policies and Procedures (updated July 2021)
Q. Why did you increase prices?
A. Unfortunately, the combination of the additional costs of implementing the measures we must take in order to meet public health requirements and ensure the health and safety of everyone who enters our studio on top of our regular overhead costs, and decreased revenue due to continued capacity limitations, when we’ve been allowed to open at all over the last 16 months, meant that we had no choice but to increase our prices in order to keep our doors open.
Some examples of additional costs we have taken on include:
Additional aerial equipment in order to ensure adequate sanitization between uses and users
PPE and cleaning
Cleaning supplies including isopropyl or ethyl alcohol based products which became intermittently very hard to source and have dramatically risen in price (prior to COVID19 we paid approximately $8.40/litre of 99% iso alcohol, at times over the last year we have paid close to $15/l, when we can get it)
Extra payroll to pay staff for extra time before, after and between classes to allow for cleaning
Masks, wipes, hand sanitizer
Renovations to make the studio ready for this new regiment
Reduced income:
Capacity limitations in classes - in order to maintain social distancing we have had to reduce the number of people in classes
Extra time between classes to clean means fewer class times available during prime demand times
Parties and showcases, which we have been unable to offer over much of this time, were always a big piece of our revenue picture, supplementing income from classes
Q. What about accessibility and inclusivity? I can’t afford the new prices.
A. Accessibility and inclusivity are values that are at the core of what Brass Butterflies stands for. During the initial phases of reopening, as we slowly ramp back up, we need to ask for your patience and understanding. There will need to be two way trust and we will need to share some of the burden. I know that this temporarily makes our classes less accessible than before. As we transition through this phase as a business and a community and restrictions continue to loosen, we are planning to bring back memberships and value packages and more flexible cancellation and makeup policies. I am hopeful that if we get through this phase we will be able to introduce karma classes, referral programs, sell-offs of extra classes, early bird specials, etc. Right now our limited capacity means that these prices are what we have to charge to stay open for the short term.
Q. Why are you not reinstating memberships? (This question is from spring 2020. See above for plans to reintroduce memberships in late 2021 or early 2022)
A. Our memberships provided value to our students in exchange for more predictable and consistent cash flow for our business, however they were created for a system with much higher capacity and plenty of spaces in classes for them to fill. They simply will no longer work with the new limitations placed on our business in the initial phases of reopening. We have been slowly processing through members’ accounts according to direction received via the form that was distributed last month. There are many unique situations when it comes to memberships, based on different combinations of level (Chrysalis or Monarch), term dates and length, and whether they were prepaid or not. We will be reaching out to members again in the coming days to ensure that you know where your account stands and what it means for registering for Phase 1 before registration opens. Please be patient with this process as this work is manual and complicated.
Q. Why can’t I make up my missed class in another class if there’s space?
A. During this transition period when we continue to have very limited capacity in classes, there are simply not enough spaces in other classes to accommodate make-ups for everyone that misses a class. At this time (August 2021), if there is room in another class when you make your request, we will allow scheduled make-ups for early cancels with enough notice, however we can’t promise availability and the official policy is that you can attend a Practice or Open Gym in place of your early cancelled class. Please see our studio cancellation and make-up policies for more details.
Q. What if I can’t or am unwilling to wear a non-medical mask for any reason, or what if I’m unable or unwilling to comply with any of the new policies or procedures?
A. We have based our policies and procedures concerning self-screening, social distancing, and use of PPE on the recommendations of medical experts, informed by the best and most current information available and applicable to our specific type of activities. If you are unable to comply with any of these required measures, this may not be the right time for you to return to the studio. We know it’s frustrating, but being patient and waiting a little bit longer is a small price to pay for your own health and safety as well as that of our staff and other students.
General Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q. I’m Brand New to Pole Dancing or Aerial Arts (Silks or Hoop). Where Do I Start?
For students brand new to either pole dancing or aerial arts, we require you to start with one of our 8 week Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerials sessions. The Intro level courses are the first level of our curriculums and will not only teach you the foundational skills and vocabulary for pole or aerial arts, but also building your strength and confidence before moving on and up in our progressive curriculum. When students are confident that they have mastered the basics in Intro (generally, though not always after one session), they can move on to Beginner level in their chosen discipline (pole, silks or aerial hoop/lyra).
Please visit our curriculum class page to see upcoming term dates and to register for an Intro class.
Q. I’ve taken classes at another studio, do I have to start from the beginning?
Thank you for choosing to give us a try! As the popularity of recreational pole and aerial classes continues to grow, we understand that many students may have already taken classes at another studio. We're excited to welcome you into the Brass Butterflies family as you continue your pole and/or aerial journey!
Our goal is to place you into a level where you will feel comfortable. We know it can often seem intimidating to get started at a new studio as class structures, teaching styles, techniques, and vocabulary vary from studio to studio.
If you have previous experience, it may not be necessary for you to start from our Intro level. Please contact the studio so we can determine what techniques and moves you already know and where those fall in our curriculum levels. Based on this conversation, we may have you attend a trial class at the level we suggest for you as a starting point. We can make adjustments after you try the class if it's not the right fit. This will get you started with the right pre-requisites in our system to allow you to register for the appropriate curriculum level at the start of next session. It may be possible to start in the middle of an 8 week session, if there is space in an appropriate class.
Q. How do I progress through the curriculum levels?
As you near the end of a session, your instructor will evaluate each student in their classes based on a checklist of core skills and they will let you know if they feel you're ready to move up at the start of the next session. Once you have earned a pre-requisite, you are eligible to attend classes at that level or any level below in the same stream (pole, silks or hoop). As the curriculum is progressive, we will require students to complete at least one 8-week session of each level before moving on, and we prefer that students progress to the next level in week one of a session. It should be noted that it is expected that the average student will spend at least two or more full sessions in each level of the curriculum after Intro (Beginner and up) before moving up. Each level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) is also split (officially in aerials, unofficially in pole) into sub-levels, i.e. Beginner 1, Beginner 2, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2. It is very important that the student is able to execute the core skills for each level/sub-level with confidence and consistency before moving on to the next level, for both their safety and enjoyment. Supplementing your routine with Non-curriculum classes is a great way to help you progress through the curriculum if you feel you get "stuck" in a certain level. And, by the way, we ALL feel that way sometimes. Don't worry, it's not a race! Getting to the end of the curriculum (there isn't really one; our curriculum is always growing and evolving) is not the point. It's not about the destination but the journey and every student will get there a little differently.
Q. How long are classes?
All classes and non-curriculum classes are typically one hour in length with a 10-15 minute break between consecutive classes. We ask that students try to arrive 5-10 minutes before their classes and be dressed and ready to begin at the start time of the class. Please be punctual for your classes as missing the warm-up could be dangerous and potentially lead to injury and it is also disruptive to the instructor and the rest of the students in the class when you join in late.
Q. What do I wear to classes?
We wear typical workout clothing - whatever you feel comfortable to move around in. For example yoga pants, capris or shorts and tank-tops or t-shirts. For aerial silks and hoop, close-fitting leggings or tights that cover the backs of your knees are recommended and nothing too loose or flowing that could get tangled in the apparatus. For aerial hammock or silks, a shirt that covers your armpits is required for hygiene purposes. As you progress to the higher levels in pole, shorts are required (especially for climbing and inverting) and eventually a bare midriff is needed for some moves to enable grip (we wear shorts and a sports bra in the highest level classes when practicing moves that require a side-body grip). We usually practice barefoot or wear specially designed dance socks that cover just the balls of your feet to aid pivoting on the floor. No zippers on clothing, bracelets, watches, fitness bands, rings or other accessories that could scratch the poles or catch in the silks, please. In some of our non-curriculum classes we may ask students to bring athletic shoes or high heeled dance shoes. Please, no shoes that have been worn outside or boots that have large zippers or buckles that could scratch the poles if being worn for pole choreography (i.e. in Shut Up and Dance). Also, non-marking shoes are required if being worn inside the studio.
For pole students, please refrain from applying hand (and in higher levels, body) lotion anytime during the day of your class, before your class (go ahead and slather away after class). Applying products containing oil in your hair is also not advisable as you will often touch your hair without thinking about it then touch the poles. These products make the poles slippery and can be dangerous not just for you, but for your fellow students using your pole after you.
Q. I’m feeling a bit nervous! What can I expect from my first class?
No worries! Most students feel shy and nervous for their first class, but once they walk through our door and enter our studio - they feel welcomed and encouraged!
Our studio is private and class sizes are kept small, with no more than 9 people per pole class and 8 per aerial Intro and Beginner levels, so you'll get lots of one-on-one attention. Our instructors are encouraging, non-judgmental and lots of fun!
We teach in a safe and progressive manner and will always provide modifications to exercises if a student feels something is too challenging (or not challenging enough). Intro classes are accessible no matter your fitness level or previous experience. Any Body can take these classes, have fun, and feel accomplished.
You can expect each class to have a warm-up portion, some conditioning exercises to help you build strength and endurance needed for executing the core moves of the curriculum, followed by working on new moves and reviewing ones you've seen in previous weeks. At the end of class you can expect a brief cool-down and stretching portion. In Intro and Beginner Pole we will often end the class by "dancing it out" where your instructor will lead you through freestyle choreography, flowing together many of the moves you've learned in your classes.
Q. How do I sign up for a class?
Registration and pre-payment are required to hold a spot in any class. For curriculum classes, registration generally opens 4-6 weeks before the start of a session. The schedule and instructions about how to register will be posted on the pole and aerial curriculum sessions page or you can contact our customer service team directly for more information and help getting registered. Please note that if you are signing up for a curriculum class session, we will register you for a "home base" class (or classes) for the term (same day and time each week for the duration of the term). Make-up classes for classes, when granted, and extra classes, space permitting, can be scheduled after the start of the Term.
For non-curriculum classes and workshops, online registration will generally be available, or you can contact the studio for help.
Q. Do you offer Drop in Classes?
We have two types of classes; Curriculum Classes and Non-curriculum classes. Curriculum classes typically run in 8 week sessions. You must purchase them a session at a time, although if you have previously completed a full session of a level or are currently enrolled in a session, students may have the opportunity to purchase additional individual classes, if spaces are available. Non-Curriculum classes may be registered for one at a time, without committing to a session of classes. Pre-registration is always required, although if there is space in a class you can register online right up to two hours before the start of the class. Pre-registration ensures your spot in the class and also helps us to schedule and helps instructors to prepare for class. When classes have low registration, they will sometimes be cancelled, so make sure you sign up for your favourite classes in advance to avoid disappointment!
Q. Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, we offer private and semi-private lessons. These are customized lessons, based on the clients’ interests and goals. To find out more about private lessons, please visit our Private and Semi Private Lessons page under the Classes menu.
Q. What is your missed class policy?
Please see our studio policies page under the About menu.
Q. What is your refund policy?
Please see our studio policies page under the About menu.
Q. How do students benefit from Brass Butterflies classes?
At Brass Butterflies, clients are always meeting and making new friends and enjoy a true sense of community. Students often begin to develop confidence as they notice increased muscle strength & definition and accomplish tasks with their bodies they never thought would be possible for them. Clients also often find that their flexibility improves as they engage in movement that challenges their body’s natural range of movement. Your sense of wellness can improve as you learn to take a moment in you busy life to breathe, become present, and enjoy the beauty of your own body and everything it does for you, and, of course, laugh and have fun with friends.
At Brass Butterflies, we strive to offer workouts that are not only challenging, but unique and fun as well!
Q. Who teaches Brass Butterflies classes?
Brass Butterflies instructors are all trained, experienced and certified in various artistic and physical disciplines. Our instructors are approachable and relatable as most of them were once students of our studio themselves! Our instructors are constantly developing themselves and are also active members of the studio, training, attending classes and events when they aren’t instructing.
Q. Are the pole dancing classes overly sexy?
The average person today strives for authenticity. We are looking to achieve balance in mind, body & soul. At Brass Butterflies, we understand that a person's sensuality is a beautiful part of who they are and what they bring to this world. We also believe that all people, regardless of their gender identity (or lack thereof) can learn to embrace and embody both traditionally female and male attributes (strength, grace, power, flexibility, emotion, sensuality, etc.) In our studio, we teach our students to unapologetically love their bodies and themselves just the way they are. Our classes are comfortable, light-hearted and full of genuine fun.
Q. I haven’t worked out in a long time, or ever… will I be able to keep up?
Absolutely!
The great thing about Intro and Beginner classes at Brass Butterflies is that everyone attending is new to this form of fitness… so everyone learns together. Our Intro and Beginner levels are designed to gently build the strength & flexibility you will need to advance through the curriculum to higher levels. Our classes are broken down into a progressive curriculum. Everyone starts at the beginning (unless they took beginner classes at another studio) and is allowed to progress at their own pace.
Q. Is there an age requirement to take your classes?
All classes are for adults, 18+, unless specifically otherwise designated. We have two offerings for students under the age of 18; Cirque Kids (Ages 7-11) and Youth Aerials (Ages 11-14). We may accept 15-17 year olds into the adult pole, aerial and non-curriculum classes, but a parent or guardian must register them. Please contact the studio in advance to enquire if this is possible for the specific class you are interested in. Occasionally we may offer classes or workshops which will be specifically geared to having children attending the class with a parent who is also participating. Private and Semi-Private lessons are also an option for unaccompanied children ages 8-17 or for adults and children attending together. Please contact the studio for more information and to book classes or lessons.
Q. Do I have to wear those crazy high heeled shoes for pole dancing classes?
Our curriculum classes are generally taught barefoot. We do have a special non-curriculum class for pole students who are in Beginner level or higher (Shut up and Dance), where we may occasionally teach choreography designed for heels. They are never mandatory though. If you will be registering for this class or any other special choreography class or workshop where we ask you to wear high heels, please make sure they are specifically designed dance shoes with an ankle strap or boots without zippers or grommets that could damage the poles or floors. We know you have TONS of fabulous shoes in your closet, but unfortunately those are not all acceptable shoes for the studio. If you have any questions as to what acceptable pole shoes are, just ask us – we are happy to help.
Q. Is there any nudity?
Nope – no nudity! Some of our just-for-fun workshops may teach striptease techniques in the choreography but private parts are always covered.
Q. Are men allowed in class?
As of July 2016 we changed our officially posted policy to make all of our classes gender inclusive, unless otherwise posted, whereas previously it was understood that classes were women-only unless otherwise designated. Our pole dancing curriculum does contain movements that are traditionally or stereotypically thought of as more feminine. However, we feel that all people, whatever your gender identification, should find comfort in embracing both their traditionally “male” and “female” attributes. We have always found that men who do request to join our classes are doing so because they want to learn, not because they wish to objectify or behave disrespectfully toward the women in the classes. We have a code of conduct for ALL students, regardless of gender identity, and disrespectful, exclusionary, hateful, or discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in our studio by ANY person towards any other. Any person breaking this code of conduct will be asked to leave without a refund for uncompleted services.
Q. Are you an inclusive studio/safe space for the LGBTQ community?
Yes, absolutely. Brass Butterflies strives to offer a safe space where everyone is welcome. We will not tolerate hateful, discriminatory, disrespectful or harmful behaviour from any person in our studio. Anyone displaying such behaviour through their words or actions will be asked to leave.
For Transgender or gender non-specified students, we do have "male" and "female" designated change rooms, and you are welcome to use whichever one feels more appropriate for you. If you are not comfortable with that situation, we also have an accessible non-gender specific bathroom with a shower and a door that can be locked, that you are welcome to use.
Q. Do you sell gift cards?
We sure do! Our electronic gift cards are the perfect gift and they are available in any denomination or for specific services (with no dollar amount specified on the gift). You can purchase electronic gift cards of any denomination or a "Quick Gift Card" (a gift of a specific service or product) online or by contacting studio reception. If you want a nice printed gift certificate to present to the receiver of the gift, instead of an email, we can provide one for you in studio. Just ask!
Q. I am, or a friend is, getting married/celebrating a milestone birthday/just want to have some extra fun! Do you host parties or private events?
Absolutely! We host parties for ANY occasion! Please visit the “Parties” menu of our website for more information.
Q. Is there a weight limit for class?
There is no weight limit for our classes. Our equipment and rigging is rated for very high weights. All body types and shapes are welcomed and celebrated.
Q. I don’t have a dance or gymnastics background (and to tell you the truth, I’m not even that coordinated!). Can I still take class?
Absolutely! As a matter of fact, most of our students have no dance background. (And you might be surprised to find out how coordinated you are after a few classes!)
Q. What if I want to take more than one class a week?
We think that’s a great idea! Check out information about pricing and memberships under the classes menu or book a consultation with one of our team to explore the best solutions for you.
Q. How much do classes cost?
For complete pricing information, please visit the “Pricing and Memberships" page under the “Classes” menu
Q. I have NO upper body strength! Can I still take class?
You sure can! Our classes will help you build upper body strength!
Have a great day and if you have a question that we have not answered here please free to contact us.