The prospect of dancing in public is daunting for many, let alone in a leotard. Add lights, make-up and an audience and you have a day in the life of a Figtree physie grandma.
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Many older women across the Illawarra are increasingly involving themselves in physical culture.
Unique to Australia, it is a combination of ballet, dance and gymnastics, which has made a resurgence in Wollongong.
Figtree physie principal teacher Emma Sadd says the club was inundated with interest following a move to its new studio in Unanderra two years ago, particularly among senior women.
"It's a really great sport that caters for all ages because of the holistic benefits involved," she says.
"Not only is it a physical workout, it also works the mind because of the choreography, and offers our senior ladies the chance to unwind through a range of routines.
"Stretching and cardio is included in each of our lessons, which really gives our ladies that balanced workout that challenges them in all aspects."
While it is recognised as one of Australia's most successful dancing clubs, competing is not its only focus. Physie competitor Robyn Pardy, 58, says the club is a social hub for all generations.
"Many three-generational families are competitors at the club because of its friendly culture," she says.
"I compete alongside my daughters and granddaughters and have made so many strong friendships throughout the time.
"There really is a sense of community that extends beyond the club into everyday life."
An increase in her confidence is perhaps the biggest advantage Pardy attributes to physical culture.
"Working on my body around such supportive women has made me so much more confident.
"I am able to dance in an environment where everyone really encourages you to be happy and to love your body," she says.
Regardless of age or ability, the club welcomes all members in an attempt to increase women's self-esteem - which is invaluable, says zone co-ordinator Lynne Sadd.
"Many people travel from across NSW to attend [Figtree] classes because they are offered in such a positive way," she says.
"Emma really aims to promote positive body image and allows everyone to compete in a team, even at nationals."
Many senior members have enjoyed dancing success.
"Some of our senior ladies have performed at the easter show and are heading to America this year for the fourth time to dance at Disneyland.
"It's a great thing to be a part of and allows older women to get back in touch with themselves."
Dancer Catherine Duncan said she rejoined to refocus on herself.
"After having kids, I hadn't been exercising and needed something that I would enjoy.
"Physie was a way for me to rebuild my confidence, meet people and exercise with my kids in a fun environment."
