The pole dancing community prides itself on its inclusivity. Regardless of body shape or age, individuals find a welcoming space and can excel in this discipline. The vast array of pole techniques ensures there’s a place for everyone. Remarkably, the sport boasts world champion athletes over 60, highlighting its sustainability as a long-term physical pursuit. Pole dancing engages the entire body, making it a sport that can be enjoyed for many years.
Shannon Daily, a World Champion in Pole Art 50+ (POSA) and Hoop Art 40+ (IPSF), offers an insightful perspective: “Initially, I was unsure about Olympic inclusion for pole. I viewed it more as an art form, where judging can be subjective. However, my involvement in performances and competitions changed my view. The structured environment of competitions, with rules and scoring systems, became a compelling aspect.”
There’s a sense that the United States lags behind European and Latin American nations in acknowledging pole dancing as a legitimate sport with Olympic potential. Countries like Italy and Russia have already recognized pole sport officially, seeing its Olympic merit. However, widespread acceptance in places like the US might still be some time away, perhaps another decade. Despite a career spanning 11 years, Daily notes a slow shift in general public perception, though occasional positive responses, even from older individuals on social media, are encouraging. Looking ahead, the inclusion of children in pole sport and art is seen as a positive development, mirroring the approach in Russia, where dedicated pole training centers exist, similar to other sports they aim to dominate. To ensure a safe environment, mandatory Safe Sport training for coaches and personnel is crucial, as in any sport involving young athletes.
