I used to dread working out. Throughout high school, running Track and Field and Cross Country for six years felt like a chore. The mandatory PACER test, push-up test, and mile run in gym class were torturous, and I constantly swore off exercise. Never in a million years did I imagine my perspective would completely flip when I got to college.
But flip it did.
During Winter Term, a micro-internship unexpectedly granted me free time. Searching for something to fill the void, I spontaneously signed up for classes at a Circus and Aerial Arts school a short drive away. On that fateful Monday, they happened to offer pole dance classes. On a whim, I added my name to the list.
The Sunday before my first class, reality hit, and my impulsive decision felt like a mistake. What had I been thinking? Dance experience? Nope (unless you count a brief ballet stint over a decade prior). Flexibility? Non-existent. Strength? Minimal. The idea of feeling confident and even remotely sexy on any kind of stage seemed laughable, reserved only for my Speech and Debate competitions. Even before stepping into the studio, I was ready to back out.
Yet, I went. And it was truly life-altering. In that introductory pole dance class, I was welcomed by incredibly supportive instructors, immediately felt the warmth of a fun and encouraging community of dancers, and discovered what has become my absolute favorite way to work out. Unlike other dance or aerial apparatuses I had briefly dabbled in, pole dance felt surprisingly beginner-friendly. Right from the start, I was learning impressive-looking tricks and feeling a sense of accomplishment. For the remainder of Winter Term, I was hooked, practicing pole dance every single day at the studio.
Returning to college, however, brought a wave of disappointment. The closest pole studio was a frustrating 45-minute drive away, and without a car on campus, my newfound passion seemed destined for a summer hiatus, that is if I wasn’t busy with a job.
Then, during a casual circus club meeting, our President, Zoe, casually mentioned that OBurlesque was acquiring a dance pole and that we, as circus club members, would have access to it. It seemed too good to be true, but weeks later, OBurlesque officers were indeed assembling a professional stage pole right there in Hales Gymnasium. I eagerly jumped at the chance to dance again. Just like at my previous studio, I immediately connected with the other pole dancers, forming friendships and learning from their experience.
Towards the end of the academic year, the current Pole Officer approached me, asking if I would consider nominating myself for the role the following year as they were graduating. Despite my nerves, I decided to go for it and was fortunate enough to join the OBurlesque Board. It was an incredible opportunity to become part of one of Oberlin’s most vibrant and supportive student organizations.
Alt text: Student Natalie demonstrates a layback pole dance move, showcasing strength and flexibility in a gym setting.
In my time as Pole Officer, I’ve cultivated a newsletter community of over 100 students, led numerous training sessions, and hosted beginner pole dance classes consistently attracting five or more participants. I even had the exhilarating opportunity to perform pole dance in a circus showcase, directly challenging outdated stereotypes surrounding pole dance and introducing this dynamic art form to a wider audience within our shows. December is set to feature an exciting collaborative performance between OBurlesque and OCircus, and my excitement (and maybe a little nervousness!) is through the roof.
One of the most rewarding aspects has been introducing fellow students to pole dance, dismantling preconceived notions, and fostering an appreciation for both the athleticism and sensuality inherent in this beginner-friendly dance style. Being part of Obie Pole has been an absolute pleasure, fundamentally reshaping my perspective on workouts and exercise. Now, I genuinely willingly do crunches and push-ups in the evenings, motivated by the desire to improve my pole dance skills. Stretching and even arm-weight exercises no longer feel like a dreaded chore, and I can even tolerate planks – all thanks to pole dance.
And the best part? As a student, you have the chance to participate too!
Let me share my top ten reasons why I’m so passionate about Obie Pole and why you absolutely should give it a try:
- Boost Your Self-Esteem: Seriously, watching videos of yourself confidently dancing on the pole is an incredible self-esteem booster. You’ll be amazed at what your body can do and how powerful you look.
- Full-Body Fitness: Pole dance is a fantastic workout that dramatically improves strength, coordination, and flexibility. Prepare to get surprisingly buff and maybe even strong enough to playfully wrestle your friends (and win! 😉).
- Affordable Fun: Pole dance classes at commercial studios can be incredibly expensive. Obie Pole offers a fantastic, budget-friendly way to explore this amazing fitness activity right on campus.
- Guaranteed Fun with Friends: You and your friends are virtually guaranteed* to have an absolute blast. (*Okay, maybe 99.9% guaranteed, but you get the idea!).
- Stress Melt Away: Watch your stress levels disappear like magic: *snaps fingers*. The combination of physical activity, music, and the joy of movement is a potent stress reliever.
- Unleash Your Inner Diva: Crank up Beyonce and spin until your heart’s content. Pole dance is a fantastic way to express yourself and let loose.
- Cool Story Alert: You’ll have an undeniably cool and unique story to share at parties. Prepare for intrigued questions and maybe even inspire others to try it.
- Mystery and Intrigue: Enjoy the playful mystique when your friends ask where you’re headed at 7 pm on a Monday night. (⌐■_■) Let them wonder about your exciting secret activity.
- Happy Hormones Galore: Pole dance releases endorphins, those wonderful “happy hormones” that elevate your mood and leave you feeling fantastic.
- Join an Empowering Community: Become a pole dancer and instantly join a supportive and uplifting community of dancers. Pole dance welcomes everyone, celebrating body positivity and the idea that “one size fits all” simply doesn’t apply. Anyone and everyone can pole dance.
Alt text: Student Natalie performs a dynamic pole dance move while dressed in a Catwoman Halloween costume, highlighting the fun and expressive nature of pole dancing.
Obie Pole truly exemplifies Oberlin’s dedication to supporting its students’ diverse interests and passions. The college, along with the collaboration of OBurlesque and OCircus, has enabled Obie Pole to flourish. As one of the few college-based pole dance groups, we are incredibly fortunate to have the resources and support to challenge conventional views on dance and sexuality, fostering a positive and inclusive environment where Obies can freely express themselves.
As I always tell any student curious about starting pole dance, you are already perfectly ready to begin. You need absolutely no prior experience, specific fitness level, or particular background. It’s truly never too late to discover the joy of pole dance.
If you’re an Oberlin student and want to get involved with Obie Pole or learn more, follow us on Instagram @obiepole or subscribe to our newsletter. For any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected].
And if you’re an Oberlin student, don’t miss The Cirquelesque Casino on December 2nd! OBurlesque and OCircus are joining forces to bring you an unforgettable night of sexy silks, straps, pole, trapeze, lyra, juggling, and acrobatics. Expect mocktails, dazzling costumes, and a night of pure glamour. =^..^=
