Meet Ashley Siden!
A Day in the Pole Life of
Ashley Siden

When and how did your fitness journey begin?
I did gymnastics from ages 7-16. In my freshman year of college, my roommate got me into running and working out at the gym and I have convinced myself that I like it ever since. We ran a half marathon in Cambridge together in November 2016.
Why did you choose Sky High?
I was flipping through channels one night and saw people doing aerial yoga on some reality show. I thought it looked cool so I googled “aerial yoga near me” and Sky High was the first place that popped up. I clicked on the page and when I saw that they had pole I was sold and felt like I had to try it. I had my first class with Lauren and the excitement reminded me of when I started gymnastics at age 7. I continue to come back for many reasons, but a significant one being the positive and accepting culture of the studio. It is a place where you can push yourself and be supported and encouraged by instructors and other students.
What did you hope to accomplish?
I went in with no expectations. My first class I was afraid to do a dip spin, and a year and a half later I am starting to take level 2 pole classes. My ultimate goal is to compete in pole one day. I have gained so much more strength and flexibility not just from pole, but other classes like aerial silks, lyra, fly gym etc.
Who are you in real life?
Right now I work as an executive recruiter. I do it to support my pole addiction. I also worked at Nordstrom..
What were your biggest struggles before/while starting pole/aerial?
Fear is my biggest struggle; it was in gymnastics as well. I’m also kind of a wimp when it comes to pain, so pole sits and I weren’t really friends at first, but we’re cool now. Leg hangs? Ehhh… maybe they’ll grow on me.
Did you exercise before becoming a Sky High student? If yes, what did you do?
Yes, I did gymnastics, cheerleading, running, going to the gym, etc.
How do you deal with the physical strain that pole/aerial has on your body?
I don’t really do anything, just stretch at home if I’m feeling sore. My foam roller also helps.
Do your family and friends think pole/aerial is cool or crazy?
Probably a mix of both—but I do it for myself because I love it. What people think of it is up to them, but it has no impact on me doing what I want to do.
How has a Sky High instructor helped you?
…In MANY ways. I had no pole/aerial experience prior to Sky High. The instructors are very patient and just amazing overall.
How has aerial/pole changed your life?
All of the above. I have met some amazing people at Sky High and it has given me the opportunity to try things that I never thought I could do. It has also changed my life in that I refuse to move somewhere or work somewhere that will not allow me to take pole regularly. This is my life now.
We know it hurts! Why do you keep coming back?
To keep improving, and I just love going to the studio. It is such a positive environment. I live 30-35 minutes away from Sky High but drive to the studio at least 3x per week.
Is there anything else you want to share?
You should really take the time to write something about yourself here. Tell people what motivated you to write the book, how it all started, where you are now and give them reasons to buy the book. People like to have a book associated with a certain face. Psychology, my friend, it’s a funny thing.
Student
Fun Facts
Favorite Pole/Aerial Style
Heels dance is my favorite! But I like everything at the studio.
Favorite Moves
I have a lot, I cant tell you what they’re all called. I do like doing climbs and combos on the spin pole. I also like doing split-y things in silks.
Favorite Hobbies
Coming to Sky High is my #1 hobby…. I also enjoy hanging with friends and family, shopping, eating, and sitting on the couch and doing nothing.
Favorite Music
I don’t really have a favorite. I like a lot.
Blurb - Fun Fact #1
I won two cake eating contests in my life.
Blurb Fun Fact #2
I am great at making omellettes.