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Two years ago, pole fitness was just a hobby for Sarah Murray. She worked as an urban planner.

"I decided to leave my government life and take on pole instruction," she says.

Since opening Impulse Studios in St. Pete, and most recently in Brandon, she's seen pole dancing become less taboo, and more of a workout that inspires confidence.

"Everyone really opens up after they start taking classes, and really the physical/mental benefit, they change," Murray says. "And I love it."

That's why she's rallied performers from across the state for Pole for a Purpose. The showcase, on August 11 at The Ritz Ybor, will benefit The Spring, Hillsborough County's shelter for abuse survivors.