Sheila Kelley S Factor

I took my first S Factor class on Friday and have been coming back every day for more. The classes are really fun, it doesn’t feel like I’m actually working out but then the next day I’m totally sore. I like how the instructors break down complicated moves into easy steps and I always leave feeling more confident. On a side note my bf has been baking me cookies every day since Friday (Coincidence? I think not)

Almost 2 years ago, a good friend came over raving about S Factor and about transformative it is. I was skeptical. How could pole dancing be empowering, life-​changing, or at all in sync with my feminist values? With enough coaxing, I joined a Girlfriends class with her. The rest is history.
The whole process of S Factor is brilliant. The lower-​level classes give you a foundation of the movement, familiarity in your own body, and a sense of community — all while building up the number and difficulty of pole tricks.
The upper-​level classes dive deeper. You grow into the movement, free-​dancing and improvising as you climb and flip around the pole and interact with the energy and styles of the other dancers. I’ve discovered that it’s not just about the pole, or even the floor, wall, and chair. It’s the community you feel every time you walk in. It’s an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with how your body is doing and what it needs — rare in such a fast-​paced world. It’s a place where you can feel a very adult sexiness and childlike joy simultaneously.
And somehow, magically, you gain a ton of strength and flexibility without realizing it.
I highly recommend signing up for an intro class! It’s one step on a very rewarding journey that evolves and expands as you do.

As expected, since writing my review, there has been an influx of positive reviews of S Factor from loyal S Factor clients. What I didn’t expect were the hateful insinuations from said clients; I think it speaks volumes that there are women accusing me of being uncomfortable in my own body and of being judgemental of others for giving a carefully constructed opinion.
While writing this update, S Factor responded to my review and, reading it, it sounds as if we are both completely in agreement that S Factor’s mission is not «technical pole». My original review was holistic though; all things considered, I simply didn’t find S Factor to be a place of quality instruction. For example, after my last class, (Pure Dance I — 90 minutes) I approached the instructor and asked if the warm-​ups were always so long (it was nearly an hour). She responded that they were usually longer in the 2hr classes.
She also complimented me for «working hard» and «for making it my own» even though I wasn’t «totally getting it». While I appreciate the positive encouragement, (and completely agree — not every move works for everyone) I would have appreciated it more if she came around and guided me. Hence, my comment about lack of instruction, something I noticed at not just this one or two classes, but all three of the ones I tried.
I will admit my description of the warm-​up is slightly misleading though. What I should have said was, «The warm-​up includes *both* simple stretches and provocative gestures, but I still find it ineffective, especially considering how much time is devoted to it.» I tried the S Factor warm-​up at three distinct physical (when I was medically unhealthy and attempting to change my life, after I began working out, and once I became fit) and mental (from almost no to total self-​confidence) points in my life. All three times, with or without the knowledge of how to properly perform some of the sensual movements that I would eventually gain from taking classes at other pole studios, the warm-​up did nothing for me.
In any case, my review of S Factor ends here; they’re free to have the final word. The only reason I went into such detail is because I believe pole, whether as a sport or as a tool to heighten femininity, can be a wonderful activity for all women and I would not want anyone trying it to give up (as one of my friends did) after going to S Factor. If you like it, wonderful! But if not, there are other options out there.
PS — The PWN best studio award is decided by popular vote and as a franchise with multiple locations, S Factor has many more clients who can vote for it. I point this out not to be malicious, it’s still an accomplishment to be proud of and celebrate, but because it’s a metric I think people would want to know.

My review is simple and it fits any other place you experience very simple, yet valuable feelings: good on your own skin, comfortable around other women, and free to be who you want to be. If you’re looking to (1) get a good workout (though it’s up to you to push yourself on your own limitations), (2) become part of a community of very supportive women (including visitors from other cities/​states), and (3) have some good, sexy, fun time with your S sisters and yourself, this is the place to go. I’ve been doing S for over a year and I’m grateful to have been introduced to pole dancing by the amazing SF team of teachers.
As a plus: I found S Factor after watching a Sheila’s TED Talk ‘Let’s Get Naked’, available on youtube. I’ve been to my first S Factor Retreat and I just wish every woman could experience that unique event where not only you create special bonds with Sheila Kelley and her beautiful amazing staff, and your fabulous S sisters, but most importantly, you step into the best version of yourself.
Thank you lovely ladies!

I’ve been an S girl for 6 years now. I had a little break in between. Why? Why did I take a break?! My body craves S Factor everyday. Yes, I’ve tried other studios, but S is my home. Where else can I walk out the door and feel like a million dollar b#%$@? Their classes make me feel slinky, sexy, and bad ass. I love all the instructors and my fellow S chicks. I think one of my favorite things about S is we are taught how to do our pole tricks and dances with flow, and smooth transition. I don’t think a lot of other studios focus on that. Dancing and letting your body just take you away while not «in your head» is an amazing thing to experience. Trust me, you’ll walk out of the studio so fulfilled.

I have to admit I fell in love with S Factor from the day I did the intro! The instructors and staff were very welcoming. After a couple weeks, I was hooked. I was so hooked I wanted to come more than once a week … so I started to take the class b4 my class also. Since i don’t like going to the gym, I try to do at least 2 or 3 classes a week.
As a hobby, I like trying different studios to c how they teach. Whether in the bay area or while on vacation. Every teacher from every studio ALL teach differently and I love exploring that.
Yet, I have to admit, S Factor has «something» the others don’t, the «journey» of ur EC (Erotic Creature). It’s not something u can experience in a few classes.
All the teachers help u from day 1. From the yummy warm up to the flow of pole tricks to the class assignments … each part of each class help u discover/​cultivate ur Erotic Creature. It doesn’t happen right away but the journey to help that unfold in beyond amazing. I always tell my friends, «It’s a totally different sense of femininity I’ve ever experienced» … it can’t be explained in words, u have to actually just go thru it to understand it.
Once u give the journey a chance, ull look back n know it was the BEST decision uve ever made.

I don’t like to pull the race card but, I was apart of a Bachelorette party last night, the first stop on the itenarary for the night was Sheila Kelley S Factor. Although I was a little nervous about pole dancing I was still excited about trying something new with some of the most amazing girls in my life. Our class was for 8:30 pm and due to traffic headed into the city (probably caused by earlier events with Obama being in town and fleet week) we were a late. Being in the beauty industry myself I understand the significance of being on time, but the way we were handled last night was less than professional. The instructor was informed that we were late but 4 minutes away due to traffic. Once we arrived the few ladies that did not sign their contracts were asked to do so. Previously aware of the no drinking (alcohol) policy, we were dressed and ready for our lesson. We were told to sit on our mats, the instructor scrambled through her playlist for 5 minutes then abruptly told us we were disrespectful, late and that she couldn’t start the class because we were more than 20 minutes late, she accused us of being drunk which none of us consumed any alcohol per the contracts we signed, she told us we were loud and obnoxious, and that she felt intimidated and threatened by us. The way she lashed out on us before continuing the class i was scared to go to the bathroom because i didn’t want her to think i was drinking, i was even nervous to laugh becuase i didn’t want to offend her. I’m not sure why she would have the ladies sign contracts and send us in the dance studio if being too late was the case. and I hate to assume it was because we were black, but there was no other reason for it. In my 34 years of living I have never experienced anything like this ever. I only read about it. It’s unfortunate, I hate that happened. But I will never recommend this place to anyone.

Sometimes in life you are faced with situations where you want to stay and face the challenge on one hand and run out of the door screaming on the other. This was such a situation for me.
I had done a class in 2014 so this was as good as new. Brooke (the instructor) was warm, friendly and the way she moved was truly inspirational. She made the moves seem so easy and flowy, but that mirage was broken the second I got to the pole. Well, I would have blamed the dancers and the instructors for making it seem easier than it actually is, but I now know better. You need tremendous upper body strength and mine is equivalent to that of a sloth (sorry), but the cheering students and Brooke helped me nearly get there with a few steps, Firefly and a Chair (?). I’m so glad I pushed through, with help of course.
Overall I was very happy with the location, the décor, ambiance and feel of the class. The vibe was so uplifting and positive, even though I was new and awkward and the rest of the group (who were of higher levels) danced like a dream. I will surely be back for more, slowly and surely but steadily.
And sensually…

If I could live here I would. This studio experience is exactly what you hope it to be, a place to get in touch with what you love about yourself, feel super sexy, go a little (or a lot) wild. This is all out FUN. The energy of support is very strong, no mirrors, no judgement, no competition.
I joined S Factor 8 months ago and after my first class knew I was about to go on a crazy beautiful journey. I was all in and signed up for my 48 weeks! That takes a lot for me to make a commitment to myself that large, but I’m telling you…
The instructors I’ve had are some of the most empowered women I know, no doubt a reflection of what they teach — I highly recommend each of these ladies — Kerry Anne, Brooke, Brenda, Ilene, & Becky. I can’t wait to try classes with the other instructors too! Give yourself a treat and check out what’s good.

I typically don’t write reviews but, as this place has become my second home, I feel obliged to rave about my healthy obsession with this hospitable and judgment-​free playground in which women are free to experiment with their unique movements in a supportive environment.
I have frequented this studio for half a year and arrived having had already 5 months of technical pole experience. The staff is always friendly and professional – from my email liaising with S ambassador, Melinda, to participating in a free trial class with the amazing instructor, Brenda – after which time I promptly signed up for the 48-​week membership, as I was already hooked!
All of the instructors that I have learned from (and, subsequently, grown as a dancer as a direct result of), including Becky, Brenda, Brianne, Brooke, Ilene, Jennifer, Mandy, and the extraordinary studio owner and my «home class» teacher, Kerry-​Anne are all extremely supportive, inspiring, and authentic women.
I go to quite a few classes here – averaging 4 per week – and can write with confidence that every instructor genuinely loves watching their students grow as dancers and as individuals. The friendships I have made here are invaluable and I cannot recommend this studio enough. After a long day at work, participating in a class here is the thing that I look forward to the most!

Do you really love yourself? I mean, like really really love yourself. Do you feel comfortable with every curve, bone, and bump you feel when you trace your hands across your own body? Can you say openly and honestly that you love how you look? If no, you have a two choices 1. Spend money on a therapist who will make you sit down and tell him your life story. or 2. You can sign up for classes at S Factor and take a journey down a road of self discovery and acceptance in a way that is absolute fun. I, like most everybody, had no idea what I was signing up for when I first decided to commit to taking their two FREE introductory classes that they offer on their website. I was very surprised when I first walked in to a beautiful, clean, mirror-​less studio.
I will admit, my first class was difficult. It was only difficult because of me and my inability to keep my eyes closed and my hands on my curves. I walked away from my first class thinking about how hard it was for me to touch my own skin and how many men in my past I’ve allowed to touch it. I began to get a little frustrated with myself and decided to reclaim my body. With that, I signed up for the 48 week journey and started taking classes every Monday night. I also signed up for what they call «open access» which allows you to drop in to as many classes as you want throughout the month as long as it’s a class you’re qualified to take based on your level.
I am now a level 3. I have lost 15 lbs and even bought a pole for my apartment. This whole self loving thing is addicting; not to mention the amazing support and love you get from all the instructors and fellow students. The community within S Factor is something I’ve never experienced. A group of women coming together finding self acceptance and love while supporting women doing the same thing. It’s absolutely amazing. I highly recommend EVERYONE try out S Factor. After all, if you sign up for the two FREE introductory classes, you’re only gaining something and losing nothing. Just be prepared to fall in love and commit to spending at least one night a week taking care of YOU.

I love this place. I get a fantastic and fun workout all while meeting great women. Everyone I’ve met is genuinely nice and supportive of each other.
The classes consist of about an hour long yoga/​Pilates style warm-​up, then they teach a couple of pole tricks and then a routine. This format is perfect for me because I was intimidated by the pole, at first, and was much more interested in the dancing portion. I’ve taken a pole class at a different location with no warmup and I was just so sore and bruised afterwards.
These classes taught me how to get out of my racing mind and help me find peace and clarity. I never felt judged for not feeling an immediate magnetic connection to the pole. I’ve gained a community and really feel seen and lived in this place.
I do also have to say, I love this place so much that I just became a teacher here. I hope to see you one day!

S Factor literally changed my life.
You know how you’re dating a guy that you’re not really sure about but he seems «pretty cool» and even though you know it’s probably something that won’t last but you just want to give it your best try and you open your heart to it… and then he dumps you? GRRRRRRR!
Feeling used and dumped, a friend of mine invited me to S Factor for an introductory teaser in Los Angeles. Walking in, I had no idea what I was getting into but I was immediately drawn to the love and dedication of the teachers… the entire studio. And the freedom to be… ME! No judgement! Just love… so much unconditional love!
That was 4 years ago and since I have traveled and moved and been to many studios. I finally set my roots into the bay area and followed S through the moves into the bay area until finally finding a beautiful home in North Beach. I absolutely love this studio. I think they’re the tallest poles I’ve seen! The space to free dance is ample and each pole just as each member has it’s unique personality. Usually, there are more members than poles but S Factor is not just about pole dancing. It’s about the conversation in moving meditation, the air, the chair, the floor to move freely with the undercurrent of a song. Like all the studios, there are no mirrors, there’s ambient lighting and just the thick, drunken luxury of falling in love with who you are. In just 4 years, I’ve had the honor of seeing such a sexy, yummy and sweet evolution of so many once intimidated women into strong and powerful goddesses. Gosh… I’m so proud to flaunt my «S» where I can!
Kerry Anne heads up an amazing team of teachers… I haven’t met them all but Becky, Brenda, Ilene, Mandy… I’m so grateful to you all and I know that it may be tough for me to get there sometimes but you all have contributed to keeping my «S» alive. This also goes out to the other studios I’ve been able to go to — LA, Encino, NY… I’m really going to try to get to all the other locations too.
And thanks to the silly boy who led me to a place that will forever be in my heart.

Best Bachelorette Activity in the city! We had a private party taught by Kerry Anne the SF studio director and it was absolutely fantastic I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT! It was very classy and fun! We had 12 girls and we all really enjoyed the 2 hour bachelorette class. They will customize it to what you want to learn and the philosophy behind it was awesome– feeling strong and beautiful not worrying about what other’s think. It’s definitely a great workout too!

I was a student at the SFactor studio in New York before moving abroad, and I had a chance to visit the San Francisco branch after a long hiatus. The location is really convenient, and while the space is still being finished, the dance studio itself is beautiful– spacious and inviting, with four poles! The instructor and fellow students were welcoming and supportive.
SFactor is a fabulous full-​body workout in the guise of a sassy dance class. My muscles were incredibly sore afterwards (arms, legs, abs– oh, the abs!), which is a testament to the fitness aspect of pole dance, since none of my recent Pilates classes has left me feeling that way. Plus, the spirit and camaraderie of an SFactor studio just can’t be beat.