Like many, the idea of working out used to fill me with dread. Years of compulsory track and field and cross country in high school left me with an aversion to exercise. The PACER test, push-ups, the mile run – these were torturous necessities, after which I’d vow to avoid working out at all costs. College, I thought, would be a workout-free zone. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
During a college winter break, seeking something to fill my free time, I spontaneously signed up for classes at a local Circus and Aerial Arts school. Among the intriguing options, Pole Dance classes caught my eye. On a whim, I enrolled.
However, the initial excitement soon gave way to apprehension. Doubt crept in. What had I been thinking? Dance experience? Non-existent, unless you counted a brief ballet phase over a decade prior. Flexibility? Strength? Laughable. The idea of feeling confident and graceful in a dance class, let alone on a pole, seemed wildly improbable. Even before the first class, I was ready to back out.
Despite my reservations, I went. And it was, genuinely, life-changing. The pole dance class was a revelation. I found welcoming instructors, a supportive and fun community of fellow dancers, and, surprisingly, my new favorite way to exercise. Unlike other aerial arts I had briefly dabbled in, pole dance felt accessible from the start. Beginner-friendly moves looked impressive right away, fueling my motivation. For the rest of that winter break, I was hooked, practicing at the studio every single day.
Returning to college, however, brought a setback. The nearest pole studio was a frustrating 45-minute drive away, and without a car on campus, it felt out of reach. I resigned myself to putting pole dance on hold, thinking maybe I could pick it up again during the summer break.
Then, serendipity struck. At a circus club meeting, the president casually mentioned that the OBurlesque group was getting a dance pole and that it would be accessible to club members. Incredulous but hopeful, I waited. Weeks later, OBurlesque officers assembled a professional stage pole right in the college gymnasium. I was ecstatic. I started dancing again, and just like at that first studio, I quickly connected with other pole dancers, learning from their experience and enjoying the camaraderie.
At the end of the academic year, the current Pole Officer, preparing to graduate, asked if I would consider nominating myself for the role. Despite my nerves, I did, and was thrilled to become the next Pole Officer, joining the OBurlesque Board. It was an incredible opportunity to be part of one of the most vibrant and supportive student organizations at Oberlin.
Practicing a layback, showcasing a fundamental pole dance move that combines flexibility and strength.
This year, as Pole Officer, I’ve built a newsletter community of over 100 students, organized and led numerous training sessions, and hosted beginner pole dance classes that consistently attract more than five participants. I even had the chance to perform pole dance in a circus showcase, a fantastic opportunity to challenge outdated stereotypes surrounding pole dance and introduce this exciting art form to a wider audience. An upcoming December collaboration performance between OBurlesque and OCircus has me both thrilled and slightly terrified!
What I truly love about Obie Pole is the chance to introduce other students to this empowering dance form, break down misconceptions, and promote athleticism and sensuality within a welcoming and beginner-focused environment. Being involved in Obie Pole has completely transformed my perspective on working out. Now, I voluntarily do crunches and push-ups in the evenings, motivated by the desire to improve my pole dance skills. Stretching and arm workouts no longer feel like chores, and even planks are becoming tolerable – all thanks to pole dance.
And the best part? Anyone can experience these benefits. Whether you’re a student or simply looking for a new way to get fit and have fun, pole dance might be exactly what you’re searching for.
Here are my top ten reasons why I am passionate about pole dance and why you should give it a try:
- Boost Your Self-Esteem: There’s an undeniable confidence boost that comes from mastering pole dance moves. Watching videos of yourself gracefully (or even not-so-gracefully at first!) navigate the pole is incredibly empowering and a fantastic way to appreciate your body’s capabilities. You’ll see yourself in a new, strong, and capable light.
- Full-Body Fitness: Pole dance is a phenomenal workout that dramatically improves strength, coordination, and flexibility. It engages muscles you didn’t even know you had, leading to impressive gains in upper body, core, and lower body strength. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you become more toned and physically capable. Forget just out-wrestling friends, you’ll feel like a superhero in your own body!
- Affordable Fitness Fun: Pole dance classes at specialized studios can be surprisingly expensive. However, community-based pole dance groups or college clubs like Obie Pole offer a much more budget-friendly way to learn and practice. This accessibility makes it easier to commit to regular classes without breaking the bank.
- Guaranteed Fun and Stress Relief: Pole dance classes are, simply put, a blast. The combination of physical challenge, learning new skills, and a supportive atmosphere makes it incredibly enjoyable. It’s a fantastic way to de-stress, laugh, and connect with others. Worries and anxieties melt away as you focus on the music and movement.
- Unique Conversation Starter: “I do pole dance” is definitely a conversation starter! It’s a unique and intriguing hobby that will make you stand out. You’ll have a cool story to share and likely pique people’s interest and curiosity.
- Embrace the Mystery: There’s a certain allure to pole dance. Enjoy the playful mystery when friends ask about your Monday night plans. It adds a touch of intrigue and personal time that is just for you. (⌐■_■)
- Happy Hormones Unleashed: Pole dance is a fantastic endorphin booster. Physical activity, especially dance, is known to release endorphins, those “happy hormones” that elevate your mood and combat stress. You’ll leave each class feeling energized, positive, and genuinely happier.
- Join an Empowering Community: The pole dance community is incredibly supportive and inclusive. It’s a space where people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, and fitness levels come together to encourage and uplift each other. The “no one-size-fits-all” ethos is truly embraced, making it a welcoming environment for everyone.
- Beginner-Friendly and Adaptable: Despite its seemingly advanced moves, pole dance is surprisingly beginner-friendly. Classes are structured to gradually build skills, and there are modifications for different fitness levels. It’s never too late to start, and you don’t need any prior dance or fitness experience.
- Challenge Stereotypes and Embrace Empowerment: Pole dance is about reclaiming your body, challenging societal norms around dance and sexuality, and celebrating strength and sensuality on your own terms. It’s an empowering art form that allows you to express yourself, build confidence, and redefine what fitness means to you.
Performing pole dance in a Halloween Catwoman costume, showcasing the fun and expressive side of pole.
Obie Pole, and college pole dance groups in general, exemplify the power of supportive communities in fostering unique and empowering activities. Colleges that support initiatives like Obie Pole play a vital role in challenging conventions and creating inclusive spaces for students to explore self-expression and fitness in unconventional ways.
As I constantly remind anyone curious about trying pole dance: you are already ready. You need absolutely nothing to begin, and it’s truly never too late to discover the joy and empowerment of pole dance.
If you are interested in trying pole dance, search for local studios or community groups in your area. Many offer introductory classes perfect for beginners. You might just find your new favorite workout and a passionate community waiting to welcome you.
