Tips for Using the Pole
All teachers have their own style of teaching and their own ideas of which move they deem hard. Most of the tips I am explaining below I feel are basic, but there is some cross over into intermediate to advance. All the information is just a guide. Remember there is no right or wrong way to pole dance just a safe way. As you practice you will develop your own style. It is very important to warm up and cool down. If you can improve your stretch and do the splits you can open up your routine to a great many more moves. It will also make your routine look more polished and effortless. Bare arms and legs are essential for traction to the pole. Also, do not wear any creams or lotions. This may make the pole slippery and dangerous to use. Always keep grease removing product with you to keep the pole clean and dry.
Each student is different to the next. Don’t be disheartened, we are all individual and have our own level. If you can’t get a move have a rest and come back to it. I find if a student can do a particular move one week, they can more than likely do it the next. If you are still struggling try changing your lead hand, you never know you can be ambidextrous.
Something to think about is the speed in which you would like to travel. You need to speed up and slow down depending on the music. If you lean away from the pole your spin will slow and if you lean into the pole it will speed up. The same happens if you kick your outside leg out whipping it onto the pole your spin will become faster. Basic science applies here.
The higher you are up the pole the more turns/spins you are likely to do. So if you would like to spin longer either place your hand or leg higher on the pole or you can jump into your spin. Jumping at the pole won't get you anywhere, but jumping around the pole will.
Some of the time you will have a free hand. Use this hand to stroke your torso, the pole your hair or just move your hand/arm to the beat. It is important to have your own style and make your dancing more spectacular with your movements.
Grace and flow of the movement come with practice. You need to experiment with your moves, spins and floor work to see which fit best together. If you get the right combination of moves in sequences your routine can look as if it is one continuous move. Muscle control plays a key factor in this. If you can control your abs for example, you can lower your legs at a slower rate instead of just dropping. It can help you as with any form of dance that posture is critical. Just walking around the pole with a beautiful posture is a move in itself. Your head should be held high and your shoulders should be back. Personally, I like to arch my back. When performing a spin, pose or floor work it is important that you keep legs straight when they should be straight and at right angle to the body.
Remember it is of the up most importance to point your toes when your feet are not on the floor. An inverted foot will ruin a move.
Remember pole dance is just not about the pole it is also about floor work. It is just as important to perform floor work as it is on the pole. It also gives you the opportunity to catch your breathe and add some diversity.
The more tired you become the more mistakes you are likely to make. So don’t push yourself too hard as it could result in an injury. Remember not to lose sight that this will get you in great shape but it is also meant to be fun!
Now that you have gotten some tips I believe you are ready to pole dance! Remember that if group classes are not enough to purchase private lessons and also buy a removable pole from us for your home to practice. Stay safe and can’t wait to see you in class!
