LLH Fitness and Dance Studio

LOVE the ladies here along with the vision and mission the studio is trying to promote! I started off in November of last year taking beginning classes through a Groupon purchase. I’ve since purchased additional classes and a DDM membership. The annual membership is really worth it especially if you are going to consistently take classes with them. It’s $ 49 up front, then this unlocks the ability for you to purchase class packages at 50% the original price.
The classes themselves are well structured and each instructor encourages growth and learning with positive remarks. I’ve mostly taken classes with Michelle and I can say she is the best among everyone. I highly recommend her for the Level 1 classes! Her passion and dedication to pole fitness is unsurpassed in my honest opinion!
My biggest gripe in the past revolved around the availability of classes, but they are growing and now offer classes during VERY reasonable times throughout the work week. I LOVE LLH and encourage everyone to give them a try and learn what pole is all about!

I think that for a beginner, or someone who wants a lot of structure in their classes this studio would be fine. But for an advanced student, it is awful.
I bought a groupon for 4 classes and explained to the staff that I had been doing pole fitness for 2 yrs and was in advanced classes at my old studio (was even invited to perform at my last studio) and they told me that I had to start from the very beginning and then test out of the classes. All of the moves needed to test out of the classes have different names than what were used at my old studio, so I had to take 2 beginners classes to just learn the names of the moves so I could even know what they were testing for. I tried to set up a time to test out before one of the level 2 classes but they said they were too busy and that I should take another beginner class and test out after. I tried signing up for a class again just to try and use up the last 2 classes on my groupon but the schedule for beginners was full for at least 4 weeks in advance. I just got frustrated and decided to find a different studio as I felt they were wasting my time and money.
I was very bored in the beginners classes, the classes are taught more like a boot camp where everyone does the same moves at the same time while the instructor yells out which leg to step with and when to spin. They don’t really allow much room for experimenting with the moves or getting creative. All other studios I have been to encourage creativity and experimentation and encourage you to work on flowing moves together into a dance from the very beginning. I felt that this studio was holding me back by not letting me advance to my level and by not allowing creative experimentation with dance moves.
This studio does not allow heels, which is also very strange for a pole studio considering that so much of the floor work involves sliding on heels.
Overall I will not be returning to LLH and have since found a studio that I love. If you are a beginner and really need a lot of structure then you might have a better experience, but if you are an advanced student looking for a good dance studio in SD then I would check out Fun Pole Fitness or Dollhouse Fitness.

If anyone wants to try a pole fitness class L.L.H is the place! I love the class! Blair was awesome including all the staff! You will definitely enjoy the class! Can’t wait for my next class!

2015 and I’m still going to LLH Fitness & Dance for pole classes! I love how the studio is evolving and adding different classes. I love the tricks you learn in Level 2. Spinny pole is also fun, and after a few classes I do not get quite as dizzy.
I love the yoga classes. I have been working on my splits and flexibility. The yoga program is great.
With so many groupon users it can be difficult to get into the Level 1 classes especially when Groupon is about to expire, but I book in advance or add myself to the waitlist. I’m glad more people are discovering this studio and discovering a love of pole! :)

The ladies at the studio are patient, funny, try to establish relationships with everyone, and most of all, always make you feel comfortable. I’ve been going to the studio for over a year and I’ve loved it since my very first visit.
I’ve been to other studios before, but this one is like no other. I love their teaching style, how they cheer you on when you’re trying out new things, and how it feels like a little family.
Going in for a class or even an open pole practice is always one of the highlights of my week and I’m ALWAYS guaranteed a good workout and a sore body the next day. I even had my husband take an intro class and he enjoyed it and said he didn’t feel awkward and it wasn’t like he expected.
LLHFDS holds a special place in my heart and it’s definitely on my «Must Try» list if you’re looking for a different type of workout and environment :)

I Just took pole fitness newbie class and it was so much fun! I learned a lot, I still have to do better with the fireman spin but Im sure I will get the hang of it down the line… lol.
Michele did a great job teaching I felt comfortable being there and looking forward to learning more!

This is my first pole fitness class to have taken, ever!
(I held off because I’ve have to recover from past neck, head, knee, shoulder, & back injuries. Been wanting to try this for years!)
I thought, I was in ~okay ~ enough shape!
I took the intro class & level 1 class.
Whoa!
You need a lot of core & shoulder/​arm strength!
I had two-​left feet & lots of fun.
I need to take each class 10 more times, lol. The instructor was nice & very helpful.
She makes everything look easy!
She gave me advice for preparing for the next time.
I felt places hurt on me for over 2 days, that I didn’t think could hurt!
(The following day, I got a 2 hr massage, stretched 3 times, & went In a jacuzzi. On the second day, I woke up feeling way better.)
Now, I am more aware of what to strengthen on myself to take these classes again, in the future.
Also, stretch really well, beforehand!
They do some of that in the beginning & end of the class but I realized, I needed to do more stretching, even!
I’m going to for sure come back here!!!
Fun & great way to get in shape! :)
Also, when inquiring about the classes, they were always prompt at responding to me. :)

The studio and staff are absolutely fantastic. I started out buying a Groupon back in February and have been going every week since then. It was a bit awkward at first, but that was just because I wasn’t sure what to expect. Each teacher has been so supportive and understanding of each student’s needs. I’ve taken classes with large girls, small girls, old, and young — and everyone has a good time. It’s all about attitude and keeping an open mind.
I’ve taken the newbie, Level 1, DDM, Level 2, Spinning Pole, and Sexy Silhouettes classes here and each one has been so helpful. I’ve been to other studios, but LLH has been my best experience. They have a comfortable amount of sexiness to their classes (how to make beautiful shapes with your body and get up off the floor nicely). The thing that got me was the level of technique that Sara teaches — it provides strength and safety to your practice. They understand that each person has their limits and will work with you to do modifications of poses or spins. They’re also very encouraging, and I’m very thankful for the teachers that have pushed me to achieve feats I never though I could do — seriously, I never thought I’d be able to do a Scorpio or an Inner Thigh Hold.
It is a bit difficult to find for the first time, but it’s not hidden. They provide a map for you to follow in your emails. They’re very concerned with the students safety, and have cameras to make sure no one’s lurking in the parking lot. The door policy is also so that each student is properly warmed up and don’t hurt themselves — it’s really important when you’re putting so much strain and effort with your shoulders. They send out email/​text reminders for each class and reiterate the door policy each time — and it’s definitely not hard to follow.
I love the staff and have become close friends with many of them, just by coming to class and chatting with them — I’d like to say that I’m also very shy, so having such friendly supportive people is great. They’re all very warm and loving people (seriously just talk to them and treat them with respect!) A lot of people have a negative view of pole dancing, but it’s such a great community to be a part of and so much fun to do. LLH aims to empower and encourage people (not just women, they have co-​ed classes!) to be positive, healthy, and confident.
I have LLH to thank for helping me become healthier and treating my body better — I’ve trimmed down and gained muscle tone just from taking classes a couple times a week. No matter how stressful a day I’m having, once I go into the studio to practice, all of it melts away, and I come out feeling lighter and happier.

This business is just ridiculous. My friends and I bought a groupon. It was our first time to take the class, our first time to visit the location. We thought we’re right on time. BUT no, the door is locked already. The lady that seems not too happy with her job said we were late by 2 minutes. WOW. TWO MINUTES! I understand that their rules are strict but it is our FIRST TIME.
First of all, the location is not very accessible. We were circling around for maybe 2 minutes (yes!) to find the establishment. Also, the lady that opened the locked door was not even happy to see us. Just the courtesy of smiling and being apologetic while telling us to reschedule would do. Great way to turn down potential students, eh?
Worst of all we were charged with a class that we missed by (what they said) 2 minutes! Way to run a business. Sorry we’re not going to reschedule and pay again. And I’m sure to contact groupon for a refund.

I love LLH Fitness And Dance studio! I’ve always wanted to try pole dancing, and after a friend and I saw a groupon for it, we decided to give it a try. Took the intro class in late May, fell in love, and I’ve been obsessed ever since! I purchased a membership for $ 22/​year, which gives you half off any pole packages. I went to DDM (members only) class every Wednesday night with Blair. It was great cause I was always guaranteed a spot. Then in July I decided I wanted to speed things up, so I took the Speed Of Light course. It’s an 8 week accelerated program to get you ready to test out of level 1. I happily passed out at week 6, and moved on to level 2 courses where you learn inversions and climb the pole. Nothing but good vibes here, all the ladies that work here are wonderful! It really feels like a community and friendship rather than just a place to work out. We all laugh with each other and make jokes, it’s really just a fun place to be.
Choreography class with Michelle is so much fun! A new song is picked in the beginning of every month, and a routine is practiced to it throughout the month. I signed up for choreography for the month cause I wanted to learn a routine. First class of the month was a blast! Although, I’d have to say I felt a little cheated the second week. I was the only one from week one that showed up again, and the two girls that joined in seemed pretty new to the studio. We spent a lot of time working on basic pole spins with them, and we didn’t advance anymore of what we had learned from the first week. I felt a little frustrated that we spent so much time going over the stuff we had already learned the previous week, and I went home with no advancements to practice. With that being said, I think it might be a good idea to either make it a more advanced class, or maybe make it so you have to attend first class of the month so you don’t slow the others down.
Only thing negative I could say is location. Other than that, more schedule time would be great! Preferably during the morning on weekdays.
Pole fitness is absolutely my new obsession, and I’m glad that I found such an amazing studio with amazing people. I fully encourage anyone wanting to try pole to come to LLH Fitness, you’ll have a blast!

Just took my first (newbie) class and it was so much fun! The entry level stuff is suitable for almost any fitness level and the instructor (Michelle) was patient and entertaining. Can’t wait to go back!

Ok I can’t say enough good things about this place! I’ve taken 3 classes so far and it’s such a great workout. Although I’ve only taken 3 classes I’m seeing improvements already. It’s NOT easy and as a bigger girl I was really really intimidated after my first class but LaShawn is soooooooo supportive and encouraging! I’ve only taken classes with LaShawn because it fits my schedule and she’s ammmmazing! I like how she teaches the entire class and then walks around to individually correct each student so you get a little personal attention. I’ve heard all the instructors are just as nice and supportive too. I have emailed Sara once, she responded quickly and was very polite.
The studio is a hidden gem, literally, so the first class give yourself an extra five-​ten minutes to find the place. I so regret not buying more Groupons when they were available!
Only «negative» thing is classes are always full and you have to plan in advance. Just like a good restaurant or bar if it’s good it’s going to by busy, there’s going to be a wait time. On the up side, I’ve placed myself on the wait list for two separate classes & ended up getting in!

This studio and stuff made me feel comfortable and confident about my body and myself. There are a lot more spins and tricks I want to learn from them!
I’ve been going for over a year and there are lots more new clients and classes are filling up fast. Because of my family’s schedule, I can’t necessary go there anytime, so I asked Marie, one of the stuff, to see if there’s a solution. Well, there’s a Wait List! I could put myself in the wait list and it will notify me via email, if I could get in to the class I wanted to go to. The system has helped me and although I didn’t put myself on the wait list too often, every time I did, I got in at least a couple of hours before the class time.
Thanks to Sara, Michelle and Marie’s help, I graduated Level 1 in December, but as I mentioned, because of my family’s schedule, I have not been able to take Level 2 classes. Bummer. I’ll get there someday…
So, instead of not going to the studio, I went to take Pole Choreography class. It. Is. So. Much. Fun!!! Michelle is an amazing instructor, teaching us step by step and makes sure everyone in the class understands what we are doing and if there’s a move I can’t do physically, she teaches me easier move instead, so I am not left out. She also compliments us when we do a good job. ;) Always positive! One tip, if you want to learn the whole routine for a song, you have to go for each classes in the month, from the 1^st week to the 4^th to complete! Also, this class fills up fast, so make sure to sign up in advance and please make sure to take yourself off, if you can’t make to the class, so students like me on the wait list can get in to the class!
I just can’t wait to go back!!!

I haven’t been to other pole studios, so I have nothing to compare to, but I really like this studio. It definitely boosts confidence levels and it’s an environment of non-​judgement… instructors are sweet, seems like the girls that attend classes here are sweet as well. You’ll have fun learning something for the first few times and falling. I’ve only had Sara and Michele, but they’re both awesome. And my favorite class is Pole Choreography, which is a fairly new class they added.
Although their classes are completely full for at least 2 weeks — so you have to book early, or keep checking everyday to see if a space has opened. Also I’ve been told that if you REALLY need help signing up, they will try their best to fit you in.
Another thing, I was hoping they emphasize/​stress the importance of stretching more (especially afterwards) as that can quickly lead to tight muscles (I was unaware of the importance of stretching AFTER working out for quite some time). I understand that an hour is a pretty short time for class though, so hoping all the girls take care of their arms afterwards!

So far, so fun! I bought a Groupon with a gift card I received, probably the most fun, rewarding, and challenging gift I’ve ever gotten!
My friend and I are taking class together, but I would recommend this solo as well, either way you’ll have fun!
I’ve only been to two classes and I already feel like I can do some basic spins and holds that would make my parents blush and impress a party bus crowd! Lol, but seriously, this is a fun, feminine and tough workout too!
I love crossfit, just finished a Tough Mudder and I’m still sore from one class here!
Take away this:
* This is a GREAT workout
* You WILL have fun!
* You WILL be sore
* You will feel sexy, (even if you think you look like a dead fish flopping around like I do sometimes!)
* The teachers are patient, helpful and TALENTED!
* No stripper heels… much more gymnastics for grownups :)

Just received my first pole dance class from Michelle yesterday, it was a great experience and she’s a great instructor! At first I was worried that I won’t be able to follow the instructions, but Michelle was really patient and, most importantly, she makes you feel good about yourself! If you’re worried about falling off from the pole, don’t! The instructors are all certified, so LLH is not like those dance studios that only teach you moves; it actually cares about whether or not you learn them! My muscle is so sore right now, but it’s a great feeling, I definitely feel better about myself after the first class :)
By the way, it is hard to find the studio, so my suggestion is to arrive 15 – 20 mins earlier, in case if you can’t find it right away, because they lock the door 5 minutes after the classes started. Try it out! You would have a great experience, and it’s definitely a fun exercise!

Warning long review coming. It’s worth it I promise
First, google map has the directions wrong. Google maps puts you on the freeway and not to the front door. Program the Public Storage next door. 11 303 Sorrento Valley San Diego CA 92 121. The L.L.H. Fitness studio is in the driveway next door.
Second, watch your step. The sidewalk outside has a big step and I almost tripped on it twice. Now I know to watch my step.
Now to L.L.H Fitness, the stuff you pay for, a review. Too much fun. I have been to 3 classes and have received first of all a great introduction to pole dance, and am now challenging myself with Level 1. The instructors communicate effectively and positively, Always a good stretch and a fun, sensual, and full body workout. This may be one of the best full body workouts I have had in a one hour setting without weights.
I like the body awareness feeling that I get from the workout. No I don’t look good right now but I am confident that I will progress into a nice pole routine. So if you are like me you will feel very stupid at first, but it will be worth it in the end.
Wear your short shorts and your tank tops. So much fun

I enjoyed my introductory lesson here. I found this place on Groupon. My instructor was Michelle. She was very nice, very informative, and I enjoyed how she exaggerated safety when using the pole and moving around the pole. Who knew dancing or any movement with a pole could be pretty dangerous!!! Especially if you didn’t turn your hand upside down at the right time, or pivot your foot in the right direction or angle — I mean really, you can easily slam your face into the pole or on the ground if you don’t follow the basic steps. I also like how they practice sanitation. That was my gruesome thought throughout my drive up to this location. Do they clean their poles? Do they have Lysol??? Haha, silly questions but logical ones, and they do! Before I went to my pole, I was handed a sanitized cloth and was informed about the cleaning and sanitation of the pole. I’m a clean freak and the last thing I want to do is dance up on pole that that’s been rubbed up on by someone else’s v-​jay-​jay or butt!!! The girls were really nice and attentive to all my questions. Sarabeth — who I believe is the owner, explained in detail how their various programs work and where is good starting point for me.
The ONLY BAD thing I would say is finding the place!!! I got so lost!!! There is no sign or anything. You just have to look for the orange ‘Public Storage’ sign and turn into that complex. I don’t know how parking is there so to avoid getting my car towed, I parked in the back. After parking, I still had to walk into the complex and again there were still no signs of where to go. That part could be improved. Maybe have one of those tall flag signs to hang over on the sidewalk perhaps? That will help.
I do plan on going back. I think this is a great and fun way to tone your arms and legs. And let’s be real — we ladies want to learn some sexy moves once in a while and there ain’t NO shame in doing so! LOL

Personally, I am a yoga girl, but I like to try new things. When Sumara offered a Groupon deal for an Intro to Pole class, a co-​worker and I decided to give it a whirl (see what I did there?).
The studio itself is nothing special, and it sits right beside the freeway and Coaster tracks, which means there is the soothing sound of traffic throughout the entire class.
Our Intro classes started with a couple minutes of general instruction about their class layout: how the different levels work, what is expected of you going from level 1 to 2 etc. and so forth. Then we did about 10 minutes of stretching (using the pole), and later went in to learning 3 basic moves. I wish I remembered the actual terms, but basically, we spun around the pole, did a fireman’s twirl jump thing, and a pirouette. The instructions were clear, but that doesn’t make you coordinated. Our instructed then went around to each person in the class, and helped them individually. I particularly liked that. The class consisted of 8 or 9 people, which seemed just right.
My major complaint would be the location. The traffic was loud, and the studio itself was kind of dull. They had grass colored flooring, and exposed air ducts in the ceiling. Nothing about it made me think «oh! pole dancing!». My arms were a little bit sore the next day, but nothing significant. It was definitely worth a try, but overall the pole dance fitness scene just isn’t for me.

Thank god for Groupon for letting me finally take a pole dancing class! I’ve been meaning to for a while now and I’m so glad I got to take my first class at Sumara.
I really appreciate the fact that the instructors gave us a safety talk and proper procedures on cleaning your pole. I’ve taken pole classes at another studio and they skipped past this critical beginner’s instruction!
I have such a girl crush on Summer. Oh my goodness… she was fun and her demonstrations of the swing, pirouette, and fireman are so perfect.
The class size was great where everyone had their own pole.
I’m kind of sad the classes were only 60 minutes and I didn’t get too much of an arm workout, but it was just an intro class. I wish I could be back in San Diego to take more classes!