The Ultimate Guide to Pole Dance: History, Technique, and More

What is Pole Dance?

Pole Dance is a form of performance art that combines dance and acrobatics centered around a vertical pole. It has evolved from being associated with exotic dance to being recognized as a highly athletic and artistic form of dance. Pole Dance requires strength, flexibility, and endurance, making it a challenging and rewarding activity for dancers of all levels.

How to Dance Pole Dance

Learning Pole Dance involves mastering various spins, climbs, and poses. It requires a combination of strength training, flexibility exercises, and dance technique. Beginners start with basic moves and gradually progress to more complex tricks as they build strength and confidence.

Basic Steps of Pole Dance

Here are some fundamental moves you will learn as a beginner in Pole Dance:

1. Fireman Spin: This is usually the first spin taught in Pole Dance. It involves gripping the pole with both hands, lifting your body, and spinning around the pole.
2. Chair Spin: A graceful spin where you create a sitting position while spinning around the pole.
3. Climb: Learning to climb the pole is essential. Start with basic climbs, using your legs to grip the pole and pull yourself upward.
4. Sit: Once you can climb, you'll learn to sit on the pole using your thighs to hold your weight.
5. Fan Kick: A kick where you swing your legs around in a fan motion while holding onto the pole.

Top 10 Pole Dance Songs

Music plays a vital role in Pole Dance, helping to set the mood and pace of your performance. Here are some top Pole Dance songs:

1. "Earned It" - The Weeknd
2. "Elastic Heart" - Sia
3. "Wicked Game" - Chris Isaak
4. "Feeling Good" - Nina Simone
5. "Take Me to Church" - Hozier
6. "Wicked Game" - Parra for Cuva ft. Anna Naklab
7. "Crazy in Love" - Beyoncé
8. "Faded" - ZHU
9. "All That She Wants" - Ace of Base
10. "Heartbreaker" - Pat Benatar

Styles of Pole Dance

Pole Dance encompasses various styles, each with its unique flair and focus:

1. Fitness Pole Dance: Emphasizes strength and conditioning, focusing on acrobatic moves and tricks.
2. Artistic Pole Dance: Blends dance and gymnastics with artistic expression, often performed in competitions.
3. Exotic Pole Dance: Incorporates sensual movements and dance elements, often performed in high heels.
4. Contemporary Pole Dance: Combines contemporary dance with pole techniques, focusing on storytelling and emotion.

History of Pole Dance

The history of Pole Dance dates back centuries, with roots in traditional Chinese and Indian pole sports. In the 1920s, it began to evolve in North America, initially associated with burlesque and exotic dance. Over the past few decades, Pole Dance has transformed into a respected form of fitness and artistic expression, with global competitions and widespread acceptance in mainstream culture.

Health Benefits of Pole Dance

Pole Dance offers numerous health benefits:

• Strength Building: Pole Dance requires significant upper body and core strength, which develops over time.
• Flexibility: Regular practice increases flexibility, particularly in the hips and legs.
• Cardiovascular Fitness: The continuous movement and routines provide an excellent cardiovascular workout.
• Coordination and Balance: Pole Dance improves coordination and balance through complex moves and spins.
• Mental Well-being: The sense of accomplishment and the creative expression involved in Pole Dance can boost mental health and confidence.

Outfit for Pole Dance

Wearing the right outfit is crucial for Pole Dance to ensure you have the necessary grip and comfort. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect outfit:

• Shorts: Opt for shorts that allow skin contact with the pole for better grip.
• Sports Bra: A supportive sports bra that allows freedom of movement is essential.
• Grip Aids: Some dancers use grip aids like chalk or liquid grip to help with holding onto the pole.
• Bare Feet or Heels: Depending on the style of Pole Dance, you may dance barefoot or in heels.

Conclusion

Pole Dance is more than just a dance; it's a powerful form of physical and artistic expression. Whether you're an experienced dancer or just starting, Pole Dance offers a unique way to improve your fitness and unleash your creativity.

If you are looking for a dance partner to master Pole Dance, find your dance partner at Lets-Dance and start your dance adventure today!