top of page
Meet Our Instructors
Hailey
Owner/Instructor
Hailey began her pole journey in 2015 and quickly found not just a passion for movement, but a calling to build community. When the opportunity arose just one year later, she partnered with Penny to co-found Studio X Vertical Fitness, creating a welcoming space where strength, artistry, and confidence thrive.
In 2016, she traveled to Los Angeles, California to train with PoleMoves (now Pole Fitness Alliance), earning her Levels 1–3 instructor certifications. By August 2019, she advanced to Master Trainer with Pole Fitness Alliance, where she now trains and certifies new instructors. She also holds an AFAA Group Fitness Certification.
Hailey competed in the PSO Pole Sport Organization Northeast Championship Level 4 division in 2017 and 2018, and in 2025 performed in Maine’s first aerial arts competition. In 2026, she will serve as a judge for MAAC, continuing her commitment to supporting the aerial community at every level.
She is also the creator of Pixie Potion Grips, blending innovation and experience to support athletes in their training and performance.
Penny
Owner/Instructor
Penny discovered pole fitness in 2014 and was instantly hooked. With a longtime dream of owning her own fitness studio, she turned passion into purpose in 2016 by partnering with Hailey to build Studio X Vertical Fitness — a space where strength, confidence, and community soar.
Never one to stop growing, Penny launched the studio’s lyra (aerial hoop) program in 2021, expanding opportunities for students to explore movement in the air. With her group fitness certification and contagious energy, she brings encouragement, creativity, and heart to everything she teaches.
Nicole
Instructor
Nicole lives in Waterville with her daughter. With a strong dance background and a group fitness certification, she brings both artistry and athleticism to her teaching.
She discovered pole in April 2015 and has been completely hooked ever since. Nicole teaches Beginner Pole, Strength & Conditioning, and Liquid Motion, helping students build confidence, control, and fluidity from the ground up.
She has competed in the PSO Pole Sport Organization Northeast Championship, earning Level 2 placement in 2018 and advancing to Level 3 in 2021 — a testament to her dedication and growth in the sport.
Sarah
Instructor
Sarah took her first pole class in the spring of 2015 and was instantly hooked. With a background in dance and yoga, she brings grace, body awareness, and a deep love of movement to everything she teaches. She thrives on pushing her physical limits and continually refining technique.
Sarah lives in Clinton with her two children — and yes, she poled through both pregnancies! Her strength and dedication inspire students of all levels. She holds a Level 1 certification through Pole Fitness Alliance as well as a group fitness certification, and she teaches Beginner Pole with patience, encouragement, and contagious enthusiasm.
Julia
Instructor
Julia was born and raised in Maine and has been dancing her entire life, bringing a lifelong love of movement to everything she does. She began her pole journey with us in the summer of 2017 — and it quickly became her greatest passion. Her energy, musicality, and drive to grow make her a dynamic force in the studio.
She is a certified Level 3/4 instructor through Xpert Fitness and also holds a group fitness certification. Julia teaches Beginner Pole, Intro to Intermediate Pole, Low Flow, and Ground Lyra, and she hosts heels choreography workshops that are empowering, expressive, and full of fire.
Abigail
Instructor
Abby currently resides in the quiet town of Union with her three cats — Shadow, Whiskey, and Smudge.
Her pole journey began in 2018 when she signed up for a class on a whim and instantly fell in love. Since then, she has continued to grow her strength, confidence, and skills in the sport. Abby teaches Beginner Pole and holds a group fitness certification, bringing encouragement, patience, and a supportive energy to every class she leads.
Outside the studio, Abby is also the owner of Moonrise Confections, her bakery business where she creates delicious and beautifully crafted treats with the same care and creativity she brings to pole.
Megan
Instructor
Megan lives in Fairfield with her husband, two dogs, and two cats, and she brings warmth, positivity, and encouragement to every class she teaches. She began her pole journey in November 2019 and was instantly hooked, diving in with passion and dedication.
In September 2021, Megan earned her certifications as a Ground Lyra and Level 2 Lyra instructor, and she also teaches Beginner Pole. She holds a Level 1 certification through Pole Fitness Alliance as well as a group fitness certification.
Megan has competed in the PSO Pole Sport Organization Northeast Championship Level 2 Competition in 2021, showcasing her skill, artistry, and athleticism. She brings positive energy and encouragement to all her classes.
Marissa
Instructor
Marissa has been practicing yoga for over 10 years and has been teaching yoga since 2020, primarily offering breath-linked movement (vinyasa) style classes. She has been studying breath work and strength-based flexibility since college to support mental and physical wellness. She specializes in core integration, joint support and stability, as well as mindful flexibility skills-specifically to suppport with pain management and "aging gracefully."
bottom of page