Dancer, mover, model and the face of our Move campaign, meet Portia Talib.

How did dance become such a big part of your life?

I first started dancing when I was five years old. The reason I started was because my aunt was actually a dancer and worked in the entertainment industry. I thought she was the coolest, most hip person ever. I just wanted to be her… so here we are!

How do you like to move?

Other ways I like to incorporate movement into my day include putting on a podcast and going for a walk. If it's wet or cloudy out, I like to get on the treadmill and do a high incline walk. I also love boxing and Pilates, of course. Any kind of movement really, it helps get me out of a funk.

Actually, something people may not know about me is that I’m a black belt in taekwondo!

What do you think about Upstate Sport Air Sculpt?

When I wear Air Sculpt, it feels like I’m literally wearing nothing. It’s so buttery soft and not constricting, which is really nice when you move a lot during the day.

Please share some standout dance journey mems with us.

Dance has shaped me so much. It’s given me great discipline. I think growing up and training with a tight schedule has taught me to keep pushing.

When I graduated from full time dance, which I did for two years, I felt on top of the world, really confident and really proud. It was an amazing moment and feeling.

Another memory I’ll never forget was when I broke my foot. It made me realise how much I value movement and moving my body, and how important it is to me.

What is it about community and movement that just works?

Being part of a community, whether it’s dance or fitness, has always been really special to me. I’ve found great comfort in these communities, and it’s always really nice being around like minded people.

Team Upstate