Pole Dance

History and development

The origins of pole dancing date back to the 12th century, when the so-called "Chinese pole" was practised in China - an acrobatic performance on a pole that was often several meters high. At the same time, "Mallakhamb" developed in India, a form of training for wrestlers and athletes that involved a similar technique on wooden poles.

In the 20th century, pole dance initially became popular in North America and Europe, particularly in the club and burlesque scene. From the 1990s onwards, the perception changed and pole dancing was increasingly recognized as a serious sport. Today, there are numerous competitions and championships that emphasize the athletic and artistic side of this discipline.

Techniques and levels of difficulty

Pole dancing requires a combination of strength, flexibility and body control. The basic techniques include:

• Spins: Spins around the pole, often with momentum from the arms and legs.

• Climbs: Climbing up the pole, often using the legs and body tension.

• Inverts: Figures where the body is upside down on the pole.

• Static moves: Holding figures in which the body is stabilized in certain positions.

• Transitions & combos: Smooth transitions between different tricks and movements.

With increasing experience, athletes can incorporate more and more challenging elements, including somersaults, dynamic swings and extreme flexibility figures.

Health benefits

Poledance offers a variety of physical and mental benefits:

• Strength building: The core, arm and leg muscles in particular are intensively trained.

• Flexibility: Many exercises promote the flexibility of the muscles and joints.

• Coordination and balance: The various techniques require a high degree of body control.

• Self-confidence and expression: The dance aspect of pole dancing strengthens body awareness and self-confidence.

• Calorie burn: The intense movements make pole dancing an effective full-body workout.

Poledance as a competitive sport

Poledance has increasingly established itself as a competitive sport in recent years. There are national and international championships in which participants compete in various categories:

• Sports pole dance: Focuses on athletic elements and acrobatic feats.

• Artistic pole dance: Combination of dance and choreography with emotional expression.

• Exotic pole dance: A mixture of acrobatic movements and stylized, often feminine dance steps.

Important organizations such as the International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF) are campaigning for pole dancing to be recognized as an Olympic discipline.

Myths and prejudices

Despite its growing acceptance, there are still prejudices against pole dancing. Some people associate it exclusively with nightclubs and eroticism. In reality, pole dancing is a demanding sport that requires hard work, discipline and body control. Professional athletes and sportspeople are actively working to change the public image of pole dancing and recognize it as a legitimate sport.

Equipment and safety aspects

Some special equipment is required to train and perform pole dancing:

• Pole pole: These are available in static or spinning versions.

• Grip aids: Products such as chalk or special grip lotions help to ensure a secure grip on the pole.

• Training clothes: Shorts and sports tops are necessary as skin contact with the pole is required for many techniques.

• Mats and protective pads: Especially important for beginners to avoid injuries.

Conclusion

Poledance is a fascinating, versatile sport that combines strength, elegance and expression. Although it is still tainted with prejudice, it is gaining increasing recognition in the sports world. Whether as a fitness program, a form of artistic expression or a competitive sport, pole dance offers a challenging and enriching experience for every person.