Praising the Pole

I am a certified Pole Dancer (Poler). Not stripper. Not adult dancer for money. No. A poler. I take pole classes at three different studios for the sake of fitness and the art of dance.

I never realized how much fun nor addicting poling would become after my first class many years ago. I then returned to the art and have continued for the past five years. That is until my knee was injured. How? I still have no idea what happened. I do know it had nothing to do with pole class or anything related to the pole because it happened during a pole hiatus.

I love pole dancing so much, I purchased a 10 ft chrome pole for my living room. It is one, if not the best fixture in my home. Because I’m still injured, I have to see this lovely piece of metal daily while in despair. I can’t climb it. I can’t swing on it. All I can do is touch it, reminisce, and limp away. It’s such a horrible feeling not being able to enjoy an activity you’ve grown to love and appreciate. I refuse to take my pole down because once my knee heals, I’ll be right back in the stilettos used to help propel me around and up the pole.

Pole dancing has its downsides. One of the major downsides is the negative stereotypes. So many people refuse to see the art and the fitness that comes with pole dancing. They purposely choose to only see the stripping side of such a talented dance. Not saying that stripping is negative. To some, it is. To me, it’s not and, it’s not my chosen career path. One thing I will say, is I admire the strength that strippers have to do what they do and use the pole as their dance partner. Another downside to poling is the much-needed reveal of skin. I’m a plus-size woman so showing excess skin is a no-no. However, part of the mechanics of poling is that your skin must stick to the pole to give leverage and resistance. Who knew? While many say, “Why are they naked?” This is why! They have to be!

I have not been to a pole class since October 30, 2016. Before that, it was almost a year of non-consecutive pole classes. I used to go at least once per week. Remember, it was my gym. It was my fitness regime. It was my sweat-haven if you will. This knee injury has caused me to miss one of my most favorite pass-times. I detest sweating but if I’m sweating in a pole class, it’s all worth it! Shhh – don’t tell my pole teachers I said that!

So – until I have the Dr’s ok to return to class or at minimum, return to my home pole, I have to relish, bask, and embrace pictures – my memories of oneness with the pole. Below are some fun captures. If you’d like to see me in action, check out my Youtube page dedicated to pole, poetry, and playlists!

Once I return to pole classes, I will do a more in-depth post about the beautiful benefits that come from such a dance. Until then, I shall praise pole while on injury reserve, as I hurt and long to return. 😥