Starting Pole

sidecar started this discussion · 12/16/2012

Hello All - I just had my first encounter with Pole dancing/fitness a couple months ago and have been to 4 'Pole 1' classes. Normally for fitness I lift weights, circuit train, and run/cardio. I had no idea how out of shape I was - at least when it comes to what is required for pole - and flexibility - holy cow. Since I lift weights my muscles have become extremely tight and limit my flexibility. Im working on this though. I definetly fell in love with Pole fitness though - I even bought an XPole - Im not able to get to the studio class often so I'm joining this site. I do feel overwhelmed though. Outside of a couple ground spins I don't know anything and can't imagine getting to the beautiful and amazing stages of inverts and trix - but I want to - really badly. So, here I am. I'm going to learn but feel overwhelmed on where to even start. I need to set my expectations on what is achievable by when so I don't get discouraged - how long will it take me to become good? As experienced Poler's what advice do you have to help me get started? Also, I'm in the DC area - is there anyone in this area that would want to get together to have practice sessions? Just an idea :o) Always great to share your interests and hobbies with others! Your help and advice are appreciated - thx - sidecar

4 replies

Trixie Kicks · 12/16/2012
Have fun with it. Try and find others to pole with to keep it closer to playtime than workout time. As you are learning things, take pictures. Pictures are my favorite way to track progress.
ShonaLancs · 12/16/2012
DEFINATELY take pictures and purchase a video camera so you can record your moves too. Start now! Practice freestyle and transitions and do everything on both sides. (I didnt, and now I regret that!) Have fun, and dont compare your progress to others, we all have different strengths. :)
Hazelnut · 12/16/2012
Welcome to pole and to SV! This group of polers is the most supportive community I've ever found so you'll get help with anything you need. I totally understand about the overwhelming feeling... when I first started I had no idea how big a world this was and it was terrifying. Just take it in little pieces and don't expect too much from yourself, it takes a good few months to teach your body this weird way of moving - no matter how fit, strong, or flexible you are, it's unlikely you've ever done this sort of combination-style exercise so it takes awhile to get used to it! I know it sounds like we're all repeating each other but really, DON'T compare yourself to others on here - the more people you chat to the more you realise how different we all are, there really is no defined time to nail down a particular move. The best way to track your progress is video it as much as you can and watch it back every now and again and you'll soon realise how much you've improved! Have fun too - it's the most important thing!
Veena · 12/16/2012
Hi sidecar 🌸 The girls all have some great advice!! Are you taking the online lessons on here yet? If so Start with the "Getting Started" video lesson. This one give you a lot of info on where to start! If you have any questions please feel free to ask! https://www.studioveena.com/lessons/view/4dd006a7-c45c-4c1e-b6b6-4a870ac37250