Pole Dance Classes

Pole dancing is a performing art that is done on a vertical metal pole. It is a combination of dance and gymnastics. The pole is used to get off the ground to perform acrobatic tricks. It can act as a dance partner to support the dancer. Pole dance has mostly been associated with strip clubs but many are trying to change that image. It is becoming a great way to get exercise and dance studios are beginning to offer dance classes in pole dance. For the more serious dancers, there are competitions for all levels of dancing from professional to amateur all over the world. Chinese pole has been in existence for many years and is a circus acrobatic act rather than an erotic one.

Chinese pole has no clear connection to pole dancing. Chinese acts performed in America around1914, but this did not include pole. The first known dancing with poles occurred in the 1920's when dancers used tent poles as a prop. Pole dance gained popularity and moved from tents to clubs and bars in the 1950's when burlesque was becoming acceptable. The pole itself has evolved as well. Today it is a hollow steel or brass pole that runs from floor to ceiling. When it is attached to the ceiling it gives the pole more stability but portable models don't have this option. The diameter is usually around 2 inches. Poles today can be clear plastic filled with decoration or spin.

Pole dancing is excellent exercise. It requires great strength and flexibility. It is good body core exercise and strengthening because it uses the body as resistance so it provides great toning. Dance schools often tout it as an excellent confidence builder for women. Even men are getting into pole dance as a part of their exercise regimen. Dance studios are even beginning to offer classes for men only.

Competitive pole dancing is very popular as well. These focus on the technique and dancing rather than the erotic element. Most competitions are non-nude events. There are competitions for amateurs and professionals and champions are crowned several times per year. Pole dance scoring has not been standardized nor have some of the tricks and techniques. But the push is for standardization to take place so that pole can be entered as a test event in the Olympics. Pole dance is more than just a nightclub entertainment, it is an art form.