Pole dancing

Often deemed risque, Pole dancing has only recently been accepted by traditionalist and given a new lease on life and receive validation it deserves of being more than a provocative dance commonly associated with seedy underground night spots.

Description of Pole Dancing

Pole dancing has won the respect of the wider public for the gymnastics and acrobatics it demands. Quite often it involves dancing sensually with a vertical pole and is often used in strip clubs and gentlemen's clubs, although more recently artistic pole dancing is used in cabaret/circus and stage performance in a non-erotic environment. The dancer may simply hold the pole, or use it to perform more athletic moves such as climbs, spins, and body inversions. Upper body and core strength are important to proficiency, which takes time to develop.

Advanced pole dancing requires significant strength, flexibility and endurance.

Different Types of Pole Dancing Styles

Whilst there are no formal styles to Pole dancing there are platforms available to alternate the experience by using the following:

• Standard Pole - The standard dance pole typically consists of a hollow steel or brass pole with circular cross section, running from floor to ceiling. Affixing at the ceiling gives more stability, but is not always realized, especially at night clubs with higher ceilings or at transportable devices. In the United States, the diameter is usually around 5 cm (2 inches), allowing it to be gripped comfortably with one hand.
• Show Pole - There are now poles available for use in clubs that provide visual effects. These poles are made with clear plastics and contain water, glitter, and special reflective materials which stand out when used in conjunction with strobe lighting as well as lighting hidden in their base joists.
• Spinning Pole - Another common pole is the spinning pole; as its name suggests, it is similar to a standard dance pole but spins using ball bearings. The purpose of this pole is to create better momentum and higher rates of speed, in order to have a greater dramatic effect.

Pole Dancing Lessons

Recently, pole dancing has caught on as a new and increasingly popular form of excersise in which the pole is used as a workout prop. This form of exercise increases upper body strength (by using the body itself as resistance) while toning the body as a whole.

With Pole dancing now being regarded as a recognised form of exercise and can be used as both an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Schools and qualifications are being developed as pole dancing increases in popularity and lessons on the rise, particularly amongst women who are going in droves either singularly or as a group.