Welcome to my pole diary!
A college classmate of mine once gave a presentation that aimed to de-stigmatize pole dancing. It stayed in the back of my mind until, at age 25, I found the opportunity to take my first pole class in New York City. 3 years later, I won a gold medal in my first pole competition at PSO Atlantic in Washington, D.C. 3 weeks and a hamstring injury later, I competed again at PSO Central, Chicago, and won a silver medal.
Pole dancing has flourished into a myriad of genres that combine gymnastics, ballet, acrobatics, and other classical techniques. I love how it's adaptable to any style of self-expression. I gravitate towards artistic pole dancing as it gives me the freedom to explore narrative storytelling and elements of theater.
Pole sports around the world are now practiced as an athletic discipline for flexibility, stamina, and balance. Unfortunately, in the efforts to uplift pole dancing as an art form, I have noticed that many people are severing pole dancing from its sensual roots in an attempt to have it recognized as a “real” sport. I think uplifting pole dancing is not about burying one style in favor of another, but to celebrate all styles, whether it’s sensual floorwork that helps us connect with our sexual self-esteem and self-confidence, or more acrobatic feats that help us with strength and agility training.
I’m sharing my pole journey on this blog to hopefully inspire others to let go of any shame or taboo around being comfortable with your own body.
