Discover the vibrant pole dance fitness community in Southern Ontario. Explore the sweat, pain, and joy of training and the thrill of performing at showcases and events.
Hey there! It’s Sheena, also known as the Pole Witch. I’ve been pole dancing for over 15 years. What started as a curious attempt at a new fitness trend has blossomed into my art, passion, and fitness journey.
Living in Southern Ontario, I’m lucky to be part of a thriving pole dance fitness community, where many studios put on incredible shows and events to showcase the art. Let me take you through what it takes to train for a pole dance performance, the mental and physical challenges, and the pure joy of showcasing our hard work.
The Sweat and Pain Behind the Scenes
Training for a pole dance performance is no joke. It goes far beyond just looking glamorous on stage. It involves countless hours of rigorous practice perfecting each move until it becomes second nature. Every session leaves you drenched in sweat, pushing your body to its limits. The physical toll is undeniable, with bruises and muscle soreness becoming a regular part of your life. Yet, for me, these signs of wear and tear are sweet reminders of my strength, dedication and progress.
Every pole dancer understands that pain is an inevitable part of the process. The bruises tell a story of perseverance, the muscle soreness speaks of strength gained, and each drop of sweat signifies the hard work poured into every routine. This journey is not just about the physical transformation, it’s about setting a goal and relentlessly pursuing it. Training for a show provides a clear objective to strive towards, keeping you motivated and disciplined. This is why I love training for a pole show.
Having a performance to prepare for brings structure to your life. It ensures you stay in shape and maintain a regular training schedule. More importantly, it gives you something to look forward to, a sense of purpose and excitement as the show date approaches. The anticipation builds with each practice session, fueling your passion and commitment. It’s a blend of artistry, athleticism, and personal growth, making every moment on the pole a testament to your hard work and determination.
Overcoming Mental Barriers
While the physical demands of pole dancing are undeniably challenging, the mental hurdles can be even tougher. Overcoming the fear of performing in front of an audience is a huge challenge for most. Training for a pole show can be like doing shadow work, as it forces you to confront your inner fears and insecurities. The first time I stepped on stage, my heart was pounding so hard I thought everyone could hear it. But over time, I’ve learned to channel that fear into energy. The key to overcoming the fear of performing is simply to do it. The more you expose yourself to performing, the easier it gets. Your confidence grows with each performance. Watching videos of your performances helps you learn from your mistakes and improve each time. The song a performer chooses often reflects their inner strength and challenges. The music we pole dancers select resonates deeply with our hearts, turning each performance into an emotional release and a way to express ourselves beyond words.
My Personal Experience
On Friday, June 7th, I had the honor of performing at Twisted Grip’s student showcase in Stoney Creek, Ontario. The next night, I took the stage again at SASS’s showcase in St Catharines, Ontario. Performing two nights back-to-back was intense but incredibly rewarding. I performed the same routine to “Easy To Love” by Bryce Savage, wearing a blue sequin pole outfit with one leg wrapped in black fishnets.
The showcases were spectacular, featuring pole, aerial hoop, and group performances by students, instructors and guests. The energy in the room was electric, and it was amazing to be part of such a supportive community.
The performers were absolutely phenomenal. Some have been gracing the stage for years, while for others, this was their first time performing. There were breathtaking group performances, stunning solos, and captivating duos, each one showcasing incredible skill and artistry. It’s clear that every performer put so much heart and dedication into every move. I’m incredibly proud of each and every one of them for stepping onto that stage and sharing their talents with the world. They all truly shined and I can’t wait to see what incredible things they’ll accomplish in the future.
My Favorite Grip
Every pole dancer has their own special routine to ensure they have the proper grip. For me, Liquid Grip is the go-to. It gives me the confidence to execute my moves without slipping, especially when the nerves kick in. Grip is everything in pole dancing; it keeps us connected to the pole and allows us to perform those breathtaking spins and holds. The poles can get incredibly slippery during performances due to sweat or oils on our skin. That’s why we have “pole kittens” to clean the pole between performances, ensuring the next dancer has a better grip. Comment below to share your favourite grip aid for pole dancing!
Photographing The Art
At the event, we were fortunate to have some amazing photographers capturing our performances. Photographing a live pole performance, especially one as dynamic as pole dancing is no easy feat. The dancers are constantly moving making it challenging to know exactly when to take the perfect shot. Despite these challenges, our photographers did an incredible job, managing to capture the essence and energy of each performance beautifully.
One of the standout photographers was Stephanie, a 25-year-old talent from Hamilton, Ontario. Stephanie’s journey into photography began at the young age of 15, and over the past decade, she has continually evolved, seeking new and interesting subjects to shoot. She is also an amazing poler. We are so grateful to have had her there to document our performances, and her stunning photos will be cherished by all of us.
Caroline was another amazing photographer who captured the event’s magic. Based in Hamilton, she offers high-quality digital and film photography, albums, prints, and photoboxes. Whether it’s weddings or pole showcases, Caroline’s work is impressive. Her ability to capture the energy and emotion of our performances added a special touch to the event, and we are incredibly thankful for her work.
Conclusion
The pole dance fitness community in Southern Ontario is truly a vibrant and inspiring group. From the intense training sessions to the exhilarating performances, every moment is a testament to the dedication and passion of each dancer. The showcases are not just about displaying physical prowess; they are about overcoming fears, expressing emotions, and celebrating the artistry of pole dancing. I am honoured to be part of this incredible community and can’t wait to see the amazing things we will achieve together in the future. Keep dancing, keep pushing, and keep shining!
FAQs
What inspired you to start pole dancing?
I was initially drawn to pole dancing out of curiosity seeing videos on YouTube of women showing what they learned in pole class. It quickly became a passion as I fell in love with how the art makes me feel.
How do you overcome the fear of performing?
Just keep exposing yourself to performing. Keep pushing yourself and one day the fear will go away. I also focus on the music and the emotions it evokes in me. It’s also helpful to remember that the audience is there to support and enjoy the performance, not to judge.
Why do you prefer Liquid Grip?
Liquid Grip provides a secure hold without the sticky residue. It helps me feel confident and safe while performing complex moves.
How do you balance training with other aspects of your life?
Pole dancing is my main form of exercise. It’s a priority for me, but I also make sure to schedule rest and recovery time. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you.
What’s your advice for beginners?
Start slow, and be patient with yourself. Consistency is also key. Every pole dancer was a beginner once, and the community is incredibly supportive.
I hope this gives you a glimpse into the world of pole dance fitness and the incredible community here in Southern Ontario. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, remember that every drop of sweat, every moment of pain, and every performance is a step towards becoming the best version of yourself. Keep dancing, keep pushing, and most importantly, keep enjoying every moment.
