Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Gifford.
Hi Michele, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was a professional ballet dancer in New York City Ballet and I injured my back severely. One of the Principal Dancers in the company recommended Gyrotonic. I was not instantly hooked but but session three you couldn’t get me out of the studio. It became my home away from home. I practiced Gyrotonic for several years before getting certified in 1999. My son was born later that year and I used Gyrotonic to help get back into shape to perform again at a professional level. I moved to Fort Worth to be closer to family and help raise my son while still pursuing my dancing career with Texas Ballet Theater and teaching Gyrotonic on my off time. I had my daughter and later created what is now Studio G. I am located in the TCU area of Fort Worth and along with training the elite athletes, I am also engrossed in a clientele that are not dancers and just want to feel amazing and be strong from the inside out. My passion is my work and my work is my passion.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The road to getting certified and teaching has always been clear. The road to building a successful business and reputation takes time and patience and perseverance. I continued to perform professionally for 29 years, was married, got divorced, raised two kids, and while it’s had and has its challenges. The journey has made me who I am. I can pass on my knowledge to my students and more importantly, they teach me daily!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am most proud of my children. As far as my career is concerned, I love every single thing I do. I get the honor of working with amazing clients as well as aspiring dancers I always say I have never gone to work. Not that it isn’t hard work, but it’s my passion, it’s just who I am. I walk into each class and not only listen but hear what is going on with that person to tailor-make their session towards them and what is happening in their body physically or emotionally. It’s all-inclusive. As far as budding dancers, I teach them what got me to my career and only want them to better than I ever was!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Not being fearful of being vulnerable. I ask questions, I don’t hesitate to reach out. All they can say is no, but they just might say yes!
Pricing:
- $65 a one on one private
- $35 each for duet
- $300 each for 10 duets
Contact Info:
- Email: Info@studiogfw.com
- Website: www.studiogfw.com
