Get stronger. If I had a dollar every time someone told me that they didn’t have enough upper body strength to try pole dancing, I’d be rich. Yes, pole dancing uses a lot of upper body strength, but that is something you gain from practicing! One of the great things about pole is that people from both athletic and non-athletic backgrounds can learn to excel at this fun sport. Much of the strength that pole requires is gained only by practicing pole dancing. By using bodyweight exercises, pole dancers are able to gain strength in every part of their body, particularly including their core, back, and arms.
Increase your flexibility. Contrary to popular belief, flexibility is something that can be improved over time. Don’t believe me? Search #pdprogress on Instagram and see for yourself! Most adults don’t stretch on a regular basis, so pole dancing is a great way to increase your mobility. I was just speaking with a student who could never touch her toes, but after a few months of pole, she was able to touch them! Many intermediate and advanced moves on the pole require flexibility, but for a beginner class, there are absolutely no strength or flexibility requirements. Like strength, flexibility is gained over time and won’t prevent you from participating in a class.
Gain confidence. One of my favorite things about teaching is seeing students grow in their self-confidence. Pole dancers need to have exposed skin in order to stick to the metal poles. This can be incredibly intimidating to a first-time pole dancer, but after a few classes, you become more comfortable wearing fewer and fewer clothes. This is only one way in which pole dancers gain confidence in their bodies. Being able to hold yourself in the air, upside down, all while wearing what amounts to a swimsuit makes pole dancers some of the most confident athletes out there! Come take a few classes and pretty soon you’ll be feeling like a badass too!
Improve your mental health. Pole dancing is obviously a very physical activity, but the mental aspect of pole is often underappreciated. Pole dancing will significantly improve your mind-body connection, an important part of maintaining good mental and physical health. The non-judgemental nature of the pole community allows you to express yourself and your emotions both verbally and physically, which is one of the most empowering things pole can bring to your life. By expressing yourself through dance, you can relieve stress, decrease anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing.
Make new friends. Speaking of community, we have one of the best communities out there! We all know how difficult it can be to make friends as an adult and pole is a great way to increase your social circle. People from all walks of life come through our studio doors and we welcome them all with open arms. Being part of a community like the one at Fly Together Fitness is a truly amazing feeling. Knowing that you have a home at our studio and that there will always be people supporting you will fill you with a sense of comfort and confidence. I have met some of my best friends through pole dancing and have no doubt you will too. So what are you waiting for… try pole at your local studio today!
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