Pole dancing is one of the latest fitness crazes to hit the country, with women everywhere learning to shimmy, twirl and spin in an emerging sport that is often associated with the realm of exotic dancers. According to a CNN report, many women have found that pole dancing helps with weight loss. Pole dancing offers a challenging and fun aerobic and strength workout.
History
Although it has not always been called pole dancing, the art form has a long and varied history. According to Lifestyle Asia, there are references to similar dances in various cultures, including the pagan Maypole dances and the "Hoochie Coochie" dancers who danced provocatively around tent poles in traveling circuses in the 1920s. In addition, there are the more widely known, current pole dancers who perform as go-go dancers and strippers in bars and clubs. Most recently, pole dancing has become a popular way to get fit and have fun.
Features
Fitness classes across the U.S. and Canada teach pole dancing, which varies by instructor and location. In general, the dance form involves seductive dancing, spinning, climbing and posing on a pole. Pole dancing offers an aerobic workout due to the dance moves involved, as well as increases muscle strength from the challenging movements and poses performed on the pole. The dance form works the core, upper body and lower body muscles.
Benefits
According to Angela Edwards, instructor and owner of of PoleLaTeaz, an Atlanta dance studio, pole dancing offers aerobic benefits and has helped many of her students lose weight. The seductive dancing also gives students a weight training workout, she says, because of the strength required to perform moves on the pole. Pole dancing provides mental benefits as well, as it helps women feel sexy and build confidence in their bodies and abilities.
Considerations
Pole dancing is not just for the young and slim; all sizes, shapes and ages of women are taking pole dancing classes and reaping the fitness benefits. Pole dancing can help women of all backgrounds feel more comfortable with their bodies and build confidence from succeeding at challenging pole and dance moves.
Warning
Pole dancing should only be performed under the instruction of a trained pole dance instructor. Some pole moves can be not only challenging but downright dangerous without the proper equipment and supervision. Some women choose to buy poles and practice at home. If you decide to get a pole and practice on your own, consult your instructor about the best pole options as there are some on the market that may be unstable or made only for light use.
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