Discussions

Someone is selling a gently-used X Stage Lite pole in the Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina area. They are moving and no longer have space for it, and are asking $475.

The author, a pole and burlesque performer, is looking for information on building a portable pole stage or a swinging pole as a more affordable alternative to commercially available options. They are hoping to find someone with experience in DIY pole equipment.

The author, an intermediate to advanced pole dancer, recently became pregnant and is seeking advice on how to continue pole safely. They are 7 weeks along and want to know which moves are safe, for how long, and what alternatives exist.

The author is concerned about regaining strength in time for an upcoming showcase, particularly after recovering from a shoulder strain. They asked if it's possible to quickly build strength with daily upper body conditioning and if others do this regularly.

The author is questioning if their new pole instructor is progressing them too quickly through moves, having recently learned several inversions and now being pushed towards more advanced skills. They started with online lessons and are now adjusting to in-person instruction.

The author is recovering from a lumpectomy and is seeking information from others in the community about their experiences returning to pole dance after similar surgery. They are hoping for a more specific timeline than their doctor could provide.

Someone recently purchased a new pole and found the extensions weren't quite the right length for their space. They asked if it was possible to shorten an existing extension with a hacksaw, or if they should purchase an additional extension.

Someone is setting up a new pole dance studio and is asking for advice on how much space to leave between each pole. They are hoping to hear from studio owners or anyone with relevant experience.

Someone is having trouble maintaining a hollow back position when doing handstands, despite being able to do the drills correctly on the ground. They are concerned about moving away from the wall without being able to consistently correct their form.

Someone is struggling with getting their back leg up during an attitude spin on the pole. They also mentioned a tendency to bring their hooking leg into a closed fireman position.

Someone asked the community to help identify a specific pair of red platform heels for a friend who is going through a difficult time. They were hoping to find a link to purchase them as a gift.

Someone is upset because their pole dance studio is closing down, and they're most saddened by the loss of the community aspect. They asked if anyone else has experienced a studio closing.

Someone shared that they are experiencing significant skin breaks while returning to pole, despite using an antiseptic ointment. They asked if this was a common occurrence and if it would continue.

The author shared an update on their month-long splits challenge, coinciding with their birthday. They didn't fully achieve their goal but made significant progress and are celebrating turning 45.

The author described experiencing high energy and motivation in the mornings that fades into fatigue and low mood when they return home. They were concerned about the cause of this pattern and asked for advice.

The author expressed discouragement with their pole journey, feeling frustrated after two months of consistent effort without mastering any moves. They questioned whether to continue with pole or switch to a gym membership.

Someone shared a video of a TEDx talk by a burlesque dancer, noting the speaker’s positive energy and key ideas about diverse representation and building courage. The author found the concepts applicable to pole dance as well.

The author is recovering from a broken arm and is looking for non-pole dance content to continue enjoying movement. They are interested in floor work, chair dance, or similar exercises that maintain a feminine and sensual feeling, and are considering stopping pole dance.

Someone was having trouble removing their XPole Lite stage base from the stage. They asked if anyone else had experienced this and how they resolved it.

Someone is considering getting nape piercings (specifically microdermals) and asked if anyone else with piercings has experienced issues while pole dancing, especially with moves like shoulder mounts. They are concerned about catching the piercings during practice.

The author shared a Periscope video discussing the hashtag #notastripper and asked for others' opinions on it. The discussion centers around the implications of distancing pole dance from stripping and the respect for all who practice it.

A member asked the community to share their most challenging pole moves, both physically and mentally. They were looking for input to help guide their own lesson planning.

The author asked for recommendations of pole dancers to watch on YouTube for inspiration, sharing their admiration for Ava Madison. They hoped to discover more artists to inspire their own practice.

Someone is frustrated because their new apartment has low ceilings that don't quite accommodate their pole with the dome on. They are wondering if an X-Stage is the best solution, or if there are other options.

Someone asked if others have tried pole dancing in ballet slippers, as they prefer not to wear heels and want more foot coverage. They were particularly considering this option due to having long, thin feet.