02/10/2021
How do Pole dancers stay on their poles???
How do pole dancers stay on the pole during a performance or during pole fitness work out? Poles are made from shiny materials and are powder coated in some cases, so have you ever wondered how a pole dancer actually stays on the pole while spinning and posing?
We’re going to answer this for you!
There was a joke in a very old Simpsons episode about “greasing dancing poles”. Well, let me tell you right now that the poles are most definitely not greased.
Poles have a smooth surface and are plated with Chrome, Stainless Steel, Brass or Titanium and are powder coated in some cases. This differs from the ‘Chinese pole’ performance where the poles have a rough surface.
Skin helps to grip the pole
Us pole dancers, we don’t just wear the shortest of shorts because they look hot. They are actually necessary to grip the pole, without them, we wouldn’t be able to grip the pole at all.
Traditional and modern pole spins and tricks require the dancer to grip with their arms, hips, thighs, armpits, abdomen and feet. If the performer’s skin was covered in clothing, they would not be able to grip onto the pole.
In fact, skin exposure in pole dancing is an essential part of the sport to have skin contact with the pole.
The sweaty grip balance
Pole dancers sweat when they perform or work out. It is a high intensity workout after all.
Everyone sweats differently, so perspiration may be a blessing or a curse for a pole dancer.
Why?
Because if your skin is too dry, there’s not enough friction to grip. But if you’re too sweaty or your skin is wet, it becomes slippery on the pole. If you know you are going to perform or go to pole fitness that day dont apply cream or oils to your skin.
Pole dancers will warm up before beginning pole fitness or performing to get their muscles warm and their skin ‘tacky’ ready to grip the pole.
Grip aid products
Sometimes, our skin works against us and we need additional help to grip the pole.
In the same way that climbers, weightlifters, tennis players and gymnasts need grip products, pole dancers do too.
We use chalk, powders, antiperspirants and other specific products designed for pole dancers and aerial performances to maintain the desired level of grip.
Learn more about Pole Dancing Grip Aid products from our studio and instructors.
Some poles spin
It’s true. There are poles that are static and fixed in position, but there are also poles that spin with the momentum of the performer.
Both static and spinning poles require a lot of strength, flexibility and skill to use. Although the technique is a bit different depending on the type of pole used.
Spinning poles are usually considered more difficult for combinations and static poles are more difficult to spin naturally as they lack momentum. This usually leads to ‘downward spiral spins where the dancer finishes the move on the floor, leading nicely into some creative and sexy floor work.
On a spinning pole, the spin continues and the ‘downward spiral’ effect doesn’t happen naturally. Spinning poles are great for fluid spins and combinations.
Static and spinning poles are made from the same material so grip problems may apply to both.
The material matters
The finish on the pole really makes a difference to its grip, this is why Pole Pixies Fitness Studio Krugersdorp powder coats all the poles for a better grip🧚♀️🧚♀️🧚♀️
Brass, titanium and powder coated poles are universally seen as easier to grip than chrome or stainless steel poles.
Temperature matters
Hot and cold environments also affect our ability to grip, as well as humidity. The material used on the pole makes a difference too, some pole finishes are better suited to hot climates, such as brass or powder coated.
I hope this was informative and helpful Pixies, happy flying🧚♀️🧚♀️🧚♀️
