From Scrolling to Poling

I've always been passionate about staying active, whether it's dancing or weightlifting. But pole dancing? It never crossed my mind as a fitness option. That changed when I stumbled upon a video, of a woman effortlessly spinning on a pole wearing comfy joggers. Her strength, flexibility, and elegance were captivating!

She performed moves I never knew existed. I watched more of her videos and became a follower. She inspired me to research the sport, classes, and everything pole-related. My fitness journey was about to take a new direction, and I couldn't have been more excited.

Inspired by my research, I decided to pole dance from home and I found a highly recommended online instructor. After a quick chat with her, I geared up for a 14-day trial but before starting I had to order a pole!

Based on recommendations from other beginners, I went with a static pole from X-Pole. (Static, spinning, and combination poles are all options) While the static pole is a great choice, in hindsight, a combination pole might have offered even more flexibility.

The wait for the pole felt like an eternity, I'm not the most patient person! But on the day that pole arrived, it was all worth it.

My partner and I put the pole up together, it was a struggle the first time but has since become second nature. With the pole up, I was ready to start my 14-day free trial.

I learned some basic pole skills such as a pole climb, skater pose and a choreo; I still remember the song, it was  Billy Eilish - Ocean Eyes.

I thought I was so good, looking back it was basic but I was proud of what I achieved and still am. The basic skills are fundamental.

The 14-day trial flew by, and I knew I wasn't ready to stop! I officially joined the Pole Power Academy family. One of the perks that hooked me was their Facebook group. It was amazing connecting with other enthusiastic polers.

Seeing their progress documented on social media inspired me to do the same. One of the first videos I shared was from my 14-day trial.

PPA's structure, with beginner basics leading up to advanced, was exciting, I didn’t mind starting from the bottom as goal-based exercise keeps me consistent and interested. 

Years of weight training built confidence in my strength, however, pole dance revealed a different kind of power needed and I was quickly humbled. I realized I was not strong enough for pole.

The first few classes involved a lot of "wow, this is harder than it looks" moments and a collection of colorful pole kisses (bruises) on my legs appeared. Personally pole kisses weren’t a bad thing, every time a new one appeared it felt good.

With each class, I wasn't just getting sorer, I was getting stronger. And my archive of moves grew each week. Consistency is key.

After a few weeks of training, the magic started happening. My conditioning, core strength and flexibility were improving. I could finally hold back and front hooks, conquered the pole climb and there was a moment of triumph when I nailed a pole crucifix. 

Sharing progress on social media was important to me. I wanted my Instagram to be a real, unfiltered look at pole dancing, showcasing both the wins and the inevitable losses. My confidence soared and my self-consciousness faded.

In a world saturated with picture-perfect online personas, I wanted my Instagram to be a breath of fresh air, a place where being 'real’ is ok,  I didn’t edit out my tummy folds, my stretch marks, or my bad hair days.

Many times I wanted to delete videos and I still do but I remind myself that it’s ok to have flaws. 

There was one downside to social media and that is the stigma behind pole dance. I loved poling to keep fit, but pole dance has a history, one I’m fine with and accept, but other people view pole dance as a taboo sport. There will always be someone who judges you harshly and wrongly no matter what you do and pole dance/sport/fitness is no different.

The majority of my followers are pole dancers from all different backgrounds. Some work in clubs, some enter competitions, some coach and others do it for fitness, BUT there are others with not-so-nice intentions. Disappointingly, I received some inappropriate messages, however, being part of the Facebook community was helpful and they advised me on how to handle these situations.  

After a certain time, I started blocking and removing any new followers that I felt weren’t following for the right reasons. I also adjusted my profile to state that my page was fitness only and no unsolicited messages were allowed.

To date, I’d say 99 percent of my Instagram followers are friends or fitness-related people. Since then I have not received anything unsavory. At the end of the day, I am doing what I do because it's fun and has health benefits. Yes, it can be seen as sexy but it's the physical challenge, the constant goal-seeking and the fact that pole is a discipline that needs consistent training that keeps me motivated.

The other thing worth mentioning is how Pole makes me feel and probably other dancers too. When I pole dance I feel feminine, sexy, strong and in control. Femininity and sexiness aren't a bad thing but we’re told by many it is, and why?

It makes us feel good, it's self-expression and it builds confidence, pole dance/sport is empowering. Being happy, confident and sexy isn’t a negative thing as society would lead you to believe.

Every time I hear negativity surrounding pole, I remind myself to embrace my femininity and sexuality without letting the judgment of others negatively impact me.

Later, my coach announced Zoom classes for exotic pole. I adore dance in all its forms so this was exciting. A tiny voice in my head worried about judgment, but I quickly shut it down. We only get one shot at life, so I did what I love, dance.

Thankfully, the pole community were amazing on my Instagram page, and they showered me with positivity and support. Some people may assume I'm just seeking attention but who doesn't love a little recognition for their hard work?

The truth is, any genuine athlete thrives on pushing their limits and reaching goals. The victories, the moments of "nailing" a new move, are what truly fuels the passion. Sharing my journey online only amplifies that motivation.

Pole has become part of my everyday life, almost every workout is pole-focused, whether it’s weight lifting or flexibility training.  My body is stronger and yet I'm a year in and still haven't reached my first major goal: the invert.

I have been training for it like a beast but inverts take time and when I do eventually get it the accomplishment will be worth the effort and wait.

As you can see it's easy to fall in love with pole dance. The benefits outweigh the negatives at every turn. If you are thinking of doing pole dance for fitness here are some things to consider. 

1. You will become stronger
2. You will build muscle
3. Your balance and coordination will improve
4. Your flexibility will improve
5. Your self-esteem and confidence will grow
6. Tackle cardiovascular health whilst having fun 
7. The community are unreal.

While external judgments may be uncomfortable, remember, that they often stem from a place of misunderstanding. As you refine your skills and embrace your fitness goals and path, the initial judgments will fade into the background.

The personal and professional growth you gain will far outweigh any temporary discomfort. You'll be strong, fit and more confident, but also inspiring to others that may come after you.