Author: Joey

Joey heads up the UK and European marketing efforts for X-POLE (www.x-pole.co.uk). He is a career marketer, with previous experience at some of the biggest global brands and award winning marketing agencies. His expertise stretches across creative strategy, digital marketing, public relations and marketing communications.

Pole Dancing for Men: Breaking Stereotypes and Reaping the Benefits

Posted on by Joey

Pole dancing is not limited by gender—pole dancing for men is gaining momentum as a full-body workout that challenges strength, endurance, flexibility, and creativity. More men are discovering the incredible physical and mental benefits of pole dancing. In this blog, we’ll explore why men should consider pole dancing a fitness option and how it can positively impact their overall well-being.

 

Why Should Men Consider Pole Dancing?

 

  1. A Full-Body Workout

 

Pole dancing requires strength, endurance, and flexibility—all components of a great workout. Men naturally have higher muscle mass and strength, which makes pole dancing a perfect match for their physical abilities. Unlike traditional gym workouts focusing on specific muscle groups, pole dancing challenges the entire body, including the core, upper body, and lower body. From climbs and spins to inverts and tricks, pole dancing provides a complete fitness routine that targets multiple muscle groups in every session.

 

  1. Improves Flexibility and Agility

 

While men are often concerned with building strength, flexibility is just as important, particularly for injury prevention. Pole dancing forces you to stretch, bend, and balance, helping to increase flexibility over time. This improved flexibility can translate into better performance in other sports and physical activities. Plus, pole dancing improves agility, coordination, and balance—important skills for any fitness routine.

 

  1. Mental Benefits and Confidence Boost

 

Aside from the physical advantages, pole dancing for men provides significant mental benefits. The intricate movements and focus required help improve concentration and discipline. Men who take up pole dancing report feeling more confident, as mastering pole tricks builds self-esteem and pushes personal boundaries. The creative and artistic side of pole dancing encourages men to express themselves and challenge societal stereotypes.

 

Male pole dancer on chrome pole dance stage in a home setting
Robin Demeyere – @rdemeyere (https://www.instagram.com/rdemeyere/)

 

Breaking the Stereotypes Around Pole Dancing for Men

 

Pole dancing has long been misunderstood as an activity primarily for women, but this misconception is being shattered. Men have always been involved in pole sports—take a look at pole champions like Dmitry Politov and Evgeny Greshilov, who have excelled in the sport and shown that pole dancing is not just for women. These athletes use pole dancing to demonstrate raw strength, control, and athleticism.

 

Pole dancing for men is about more than fitness—it’s about embracing a unique art form that allows creativity and expression while building physical strength. As more men enter the pole world, diversity and acceptance grow.

Male pole dancer on chrome pole on a plain white background
Jakub Kolasa – @the_pole_wizard (https://www.instagram.com/the_pole_wizard/)

How to Get Started with Pole Dancing for Men

 

  1. Find a Studio or Instructor

 

Many studios now offer pole dancing classes specifically designed for men or mixed-gender classes. Search for a local studio that embraces inclusive fitness and caters to men. Professional instructors will guide you through beginner techniques and help you build strength and confidence as you advance.

 

Check out X-POLE’s Studio Mapper here to search for your nearest studio.

 

  1. Invest in the Right Gear

 

While you don’t need a lot of equipment to get started, wearing the right gear is essential. Men’s pole dancing attire typically includes comfortable athletic shorts and a form-fitting top for a full range of motion and proper grip on the pole. You may also want to invest in pole grip products to prevent slipping as you build your skills.

 

  1. Be Consistent and Have Fun

 

Like any fitness routine, consistency is critical to improving in pole dancing. It can be challenging at first, but you’ll see rapid progress with dedication and regular practice. Remember to have fun with the process—pole dancing is not just about the workout but about discovering a new way to move and express yourself.

 

Male pole dancer on brass pole in a pole dance studio
Robin Demeyere – @rdemeyere (https://www.instagram.com/rdemeyere/)

 

Benefits of Pole Dancing for Men

 

– Builds strength and endurance through complex pole movements.

– Improves flexibility, agility, and coordination, improving overall physical fitness.

– Boosts mental well-being, confidence, and self-expression.

– Helps break gender stereotypes, opening doors to a unique and exciting fitness journey.

– Provides an inclusive environment where men can thrive and challenge themselves.

Dionysios Christofi – @hippy.dippy.dion (https://www.instagram.com/hippy.dippy.dion/)

Pole Dancing for Men: FAQs

 

Is pole dancing only for women?

 

Not at all! Pole dancing is a gender-neutral activity that both men and women can enjoy. It offers men significant physical and mental benefits, particularly in building strength, flexibility, and endurance.

 

Do I need to be strong to start pole dancing?

 

You don’t need to be super strong to start, but you will definitely build strength over time. As a beginner, you’ll focus on foundational moves and gradually progress to more challenging techniques as your strength and endurance improve.

 

How long does it take to see progress?

 

Like any fitness activity, progress depends on your consistency and effort. Most men begin to notice significant improvements in strength, coordination, and flexibility within a few weeks of regular practice.

 

Pole dancing for men is a powerful fitness option that combines strength, flexibility, and creativity into one challenging workout. It’s time to leave old stereotypes behind and embrace the world of pole fitness. Whether you’re looking to boost your physical fitness, improve your mental health, or find a fun and unique way to express yourself, pole dancing can offer an incredible transformation journey.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Pole dancing for men is here to stay—and it’s more than just a workout. It’s a lifestyle choice that empowers you to explore your strengths and unlock your potential.

The Ultimate Guide to Pole Dance Attire: What to Wear for Comfort, Safety, and Style

Posted on by Joey

What should I wear when pole dancing? It’s a very common (and sensible) question that we are often asked. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the proper attire is crucial for performance, safety, and confidence. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to wear when pole dancing, blending comfort, safety, and style seamlessly.

 

  1. Safety First

 

Pole dancing involves a lot of gripping and friction, so your attire plays a significant role in ensuring safety. Here’s what to keep in mind:

 

– Skin Exposure: More skin exposure means better grip. This is why pole dancers often wear shorts and crop tops. The skin on your arms, legs, and torso provides the necessary friction to hold onto the pole.

– Avoid Lotions: Avoid applying lotions or oils before your session, as they can make your skin slippery and increase the risk of slipping.

 

  1. Comfort is Key

 

When it comes to pole dancing, comfort is paramount. Your attire should allow you to move freely without any restrictions. Here’s what you need to consider:

 

– Fabric: Opt for breathable, stretchy fabrics like cotton blends, spandex, or lycra. These materials wick away sweat and offer flexibility.

– Fit: Ensure your clothes fit snugly but not too tight. They should stay in place without digging into your skin or causing discomfort.

 

  1. Essential Pole Dance Attire

 

– Shorts: High-waisted shorts are popular as they provide coverage while allowing maximum skin contact with the pole. Look for shorts with a bit of compression to keep everything in place.

– Sports Bra or Crop Top: A supportive sports bra or crop top is essential. It provides the necessary support while allowing upper body movements. Choose one with good coverage to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions.

Leggings: Leggings are a great option for warm-ups and cool-downs. Opt for pole-specific leggings with grip panels to assist with certain moves.

– Grip Aids: If you have trouble with grip, consider grip aids like liquid chalk, grip gloves, or knee pads for added safety during practice.

 

  1. Stylish Yet Functional

 

Pole dancing is an art form; your attire can reflect your style while being functional. Here are some tips:

 

– Colors and Patterns: Feel free to experiment with colours and patterns that make you feel confident and fierce.

– Accessories: Leg warmers, ankle boots, or heels (for advanced dancers) can add a stylish touch. Just ensure they don’t hinder your performance or safety.

 

  1. Special Considerations

 

– Beginner Dancers: If you’re new to pole dancing, start with essential, comfortable attire. You can explore more specialised clothing as you become more comfortable with the moves and grips.

Advanced Dancers: Advanced dancers might want to invest in specialised gear, such as pole dance shoes or knee pads, which can enhance performance and protect against injuries.

 

  1. Hygiene and Care

 

– Wash Regularly: Pole dancing attire should be washed regularly to maintain hygiene. Follow the care instructions on the labels to ensure longevity.

– Rotation: Have a few sets of pole dance attire to rotate between sessions. This helps in keeping your gear fresh and ready for use.

 

Choosing the proper attire for pole dancing is a balance between comfort, safety, and style. You can enhance your performance, prevent injuries, and feel confident on the pole with the right gear. Pole dancing is all about expressing yourself, so let your attire reflect your personality and flair. Happy dancing!

Five ways to avoid pole dance burnout

Posted on by Joey

Pole dancing is a fantastic exercise and creative outlet, providing numerous physical and mental benefits. However, like any exercise or endeavour, it is possible to experience burnout if you don’t take care of your body and mind.

Here are five ways to avoid pole dance burnout and keep your practice fresh and enjoyable.

Take Rest Days

Rest is crucial for any type of physical activity, including pole dancing. Overworking your body can lead to fatigue, injuries, and burnout—schedule rest days into your pole dance practice to give your body and mind a chance to recover. You can use this time to focus on stretching, foam rolling, or any other form of self-care that helps you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Vary Your Routine

Repeating the same pole dance routine can quickly become monotonous and lead to burnout. To keep things interesting, try switching up your repertoire by adding new moves you’ve learned in class or choreographing to a different musical genre from your usual selection. You can also experiment with different styles of pole dance to keep your practice fresh and get new inspiration.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting goals is a great way to stay motivated and focused. Still, it’s essential to make sure they are realistic and achievable. Suppose you set goals that are too challenging or unrealistic. In that case, you may become discouraged and lose interest in pole dancing altogether. Start with small goals and work your way up as you improve.

Find a Supportive Community

Joining a pole dance community can be a great way to stay motivated and avoid burnout. You can find a community through social media groups, local pole dance studios, or online forums. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for pole dancing can help keep you inspired and motivated.

Take Time for Self-Care

Pole dancing can be a demanding and physically challenging activity, so taking time for self-care is essential. This can include anything from taking a relaxing bath to getting a massage. Whatever helps you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, prioritize self-care as part of your pole dance routine.

Pole dance burnout can be avoided by caring for your body and mind, varying your routine, setting realistic goals, finding a supportive community, and prioritizing self-care. These tips can keep your pole dance practice fresh and enjoyable for years.

Other benefits of Pole Dancing you may not know

Posted on by Joey

Pole dancing is not only a great way to tone your muscles, but it also has many other benefits that you might not have thought of. This article will explore the benefits of pole dancing and why you should consider purchasing a pole dance pole for your home.

Full-Body Workout

One of the most significant benefits of pole dancing is that it is a full-body workout. Pole dancing requires using almost all your muscles, including your arms, shoulders, back, core, and legs. It is a great way to tone your body and build lean muscle. Unlike traditional gym workouts that can get boring and repetitive after a while, pole dancing is a creative way to increase your heart rate and burn calories.

Improved Flexibility

Pole dancing also helps to improve your flexibility. Many pole dancing moves require stretching your body and holding positions that you might not typically do daily. Over time, this can help to increase your flexibility and range of motion. Improved flexibility can also help to reduce the risk of injury, especially if you participate in other physical activities.

Get fit while having fun

One of the most appealing aspects of pole dancing is that it doesn’t feel like exercise. Pole dancing is a dynamic and engaging, challenging and entertaining activity. Pole dancing requires strength, flexibility, and endurance, so you can get a full-body workout without realizing it. As you progress in your pole dancing journey, you will see improvements in your overall fitness and strength without feeling like you are forcing yourself to work out.

Boost your confidence

Another great benefit of pole dancing is that it can help boost your confidence and self-esteem. Pole dancing requires vulnerability and trust in yourself, which can be empowering and liberating. As you learn new moves and progress in your pole dancing abilities, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride that can translate into other areas of your life.

Stress relief

Exercise is a natural stress reliever, and pole dancing is no exception. It can help to reduce stress levels, boost your mood, and improve overall mental health. Pole dancing allows you to focus on the present moment, which can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety.

Community

Pole dancing classes provide a supportive and encouraging community of like-minded individuals. You’ll find that the community is very welcoming and supportive, which can help to make your pole dancing experience even more enjoyable. It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends while achieving your fitness goals.

To sum it all up, pole dancing is an excellent way to stay fit, healthy, and empowered. It offers a full-body workout, improves flexibility, boosts confidence, promotes cardiovascular health, relieves stress, and provides a supportive community. Whether you’re looking for a new workout routine or want to try something new, pole dancing is a great activity to consider.

Is Pole Dancing a good workout?

Posted on by Joey

Is Pole Dancing a good workout? 

Short answer; yes. Long answer; yes, and here’s why!

Pole dance emphasises a whole body workout, builds serious upper body and core strength, coordination and flexibility, and combines cardio, bodyweight training and dance. 

Want to know which muscles you’ll work and with which pole dance moves? Read on…

Shoulders & Upper Back

The Shoulders and Back work hand in hand and comprise the most important muscles used in Pole & Aerial.

Movement example: Pole or Aerial Invert (Going Upside Down) 

Muscle(s) Used: Deltoids, Trapezius, Latissimus Dorsi, Rhomboids, Rotator Cuff Group. 

Arms & Hand

Your forearms, wrists and hands are the most used body parts as this is what you’re holding on with. The bicep and triceps work together to lift, pull and push your body into each position needed. So, your arms will be getting a good workout for the entire session.

Movement example: Corkscrew

Muscle(s) Used: Bicep, Tricep, Brachioradialis.

Core

Having a strong core is key to lifting into moves with control. It is good practice to work on your core strength by cross-training and conditioning.

Movement Example: Pull Up Crunch 

Muscle(s) Used: Transverse Abdominals, Rectus Abdominals, Internal & External Oblique, Serratus Anterior

Lower Back

Working with the upper back and core, the lower back muscles play a huge part in your entire body’s functions, attaching to the hips and abdominals. They help hold up the spine and gluteal muscles.

Having strong and healthy back muscles allows you to have better control in and out of moves, perform backbends, and have good posture.

Movement Example: Bridge

Muscle(s) Used: Erector spinae, Latissimus Dorsi, Obliques.

Lower Body (Hips and Bottom) 

Your hips and bottom comprise many muscles that will help you in pole and aerial. For any split, fan kick or leg extension, you need your gluteal muscles, hip flexors and surrounding muscles. It is essential to work all equally to avoid injury and overdevelopment.

Movement Example: Fan Kick

Muscle(s) Used: Hip Flexor (Psoas major and minor, Iliacus), Glutes, Hamstring.

Legs 

Your legs play a big part in your posture and lines; by engaging your quads and calves, your legs will straighten, allowing your foot to point and flex when needed. It is vital to stretch your leg muscles to build flexibility. 

Movement Example: Splits

Muscle(s) Used: Quadriceps, Calves, Hamstring

How Do I Buy A Pole For Pole Dancing?

Posted on by Joey

How Do I Buy A Pole For Pole Dancing?

Buying a pole is easy and fun with X-POLE! But, which pole is right for you? There are many options available, designed to suit all budgets and skill levels, so let’s get right into how to buy a pole for pole dancing.

The key things to consider are; Pole type (Static only, static and spinning, pressure mounted or freestanding), and the pole diameter and finish.

Static, spinning, or both?

Did you know that pole dancing poles can spin? That’s how some of the fantastic stuff you see online is done, with a spinning pole!

When starting out on their pole journey, most people start with a static only pole, such as the X-POLE SPORT pole. This gives you the chance to get used to being on the pole, using muscles you never thought you had to lift, hold and move around the pole.

As you progress and your skills improve, you might want to start adding spinning pole to your repertoire. This is where the X-POLE XPERT, XPERT Pro and X-STAGE Lite come into play.

The XPERT and XPERT Pro are removable home poles designed to be put up between the floor and ceiling of your chosen dance space; no drilling, screwing or permanent fixings into the floor or ceiling are required.

The X-POLE XPERT is the most popular pole dance pole globally, used by amateurs, enthusiasts and professionals all over the globe. Static and spinning modes come as standard with this one, with just a few turns of the hex screws located at the bottom of the pole. There are also a ton of variations available in different finishes and diameters, but we’ll get onto that in a bit.

Next up is the X-POLE XPERT Pro. This is the creme de la creme of home pole dance poles. The same functionality as our XPERT poles, but with our X-LOCK system added in, no need to adjust hex screws; just lift and twist the X-LOCK system and your pole goes from static to spinning. A lift and twist back, and your pole is in static mode again.

Lastly, we have the X-POLE X-STAGE Lite, the go-anywhere, freestanding podium pole. The X-STAGE is an excellent choice for someone looking to take their pole experience with them. Like the XPERT and XPERT Pro, the X-STAGE has spinning and static built-in but does not need to be mounted between the floor and ceiling of your chosen dance space. The X-STAGE is supplied with carrying cases to make transporting your stage easy and available in various diameters and finishes.

What diameter pole should I get?

While there are quite a few different diameters available on the market from other providers, we have stuck to two; 40mm and 45mm. But what’s the difference?

40mm diameter poles are great for beginners with less developed grip strength, kids and the more petite polers out there.

45mm diameter poles are the industry standard. They can be found in nearly all studios and at most competitions and exhibition events.

There’s a debate on whether you should start out with 45mm and “tough it out” rather than go a bit easier with a 40mm, but in the end, it’s all down to personal preference and what works for you!

Which pole finish is best? 

We have a wide range of finishes available for all our pole dance poles, including Chrome, Stainless Steel, Brass, Titanium Gold, Powder Coat and Silicone.

Here’s some essential info on each finish:

Chrome – The industry standard finish and a good all-rounder for all levels of skill/experience. High-grade steel poles are coated in Chrome and polished to a high finish.

Stainless Steel – A great alternative to Chrome or Brass and very hard-wearing. Also suitable for polers with nickel allergies and ideal for commercial environments (studios and gyms) with a lot of polers! Stainless Steel poles are polished to a mirror finish.

Brass is great in hotter climates as the grip factor increases with the ambient temperature and is the perfect choice for nickel allergy polers.

Titanium Gold – Chrome poles are taken and electronically coated with the finish for an enhanced grip.

Powder Coat (Black, Pink & White) – Useful for people who struggle to grip standard metal poles. Very high grip factor! Steel poles are powder coated and baked to seal the finish. Available in black, white and hot pink!

Silicone (Black & Pink) – The ultimate easy-grip pole! Steel poles have a silicone sleeve attached to the surface of the pole. Minimal skin to pole contact is needed. Available in 45mm pole diameter only.

Personally, my fav pole is the XPERT Pro 40mm Stainless Steel.

If you need help choosing your pole, give our sales team a call, and they’ll happily talk you through the options available to you.

International Pole Camp 2021

Posted on by Joey

As the world recovers from one of the biggest shake-ups in living memory, we’re thrilled to continue supporting one of the world’s premier pole and aerial events, International Pole Camp!

Packed with excellent classes, instructors and social elements (not to mention X-POLE equipment), International Pole Camp is set to be a celebration of everything that makes pole great; dance, creativity, learning and friendship.

Like in previous years, there are three options to attend:

Camp 1: 25.9. – 28.9.2021 – Only six spaces remain

Camp 2: 30.9. – 3.10.2021 – Over 70% sold out!

XXL-Camp: 25.9. – 3.10.2021

When it comes to the cream of the crop of the pole and aerial industry talent, International Pole Camp has outdone itself again this year, with the likes of Natasha Wang, Dan Rosen, Doris Arnold, Jazzy K, Lea Roth, Alessandra Marchetti, Yevgeniya Güner, Carlotta Lenzi, Lis Perschel, Anna Pichler and Anamaria Bozga, all confirmed to be attending in beautiful Bibione, Italy.

To find out more about what’s on offer, the dates, location and prices, please click here.

Vertical Leisure Ltd. (X-POLE) Christmas Shipping and Stock

Posted on by Joey

As we get closer to the peak of the festive season, demand for products is increasing day by day. Logistic and courier networks are being stretched to the point of failure. Industry experts predict up to 592 million parcels will be sent in the UK in the weeks before Christmas.

UK ports are in a state of crisis trying to deal with significantly increased demand for space and empty containers to insert back into the shipping process. As a result, supply lines are being drastically affected.

Major global corporations, such as Honda are also feeling the squeeze, with supply chains being practically frozen, leading to a shutdown in production at their UK base of operations in Swindon.

We advise our customers that while we and our logistics partners are working hard to ensure prompt delivery, there are likely to be significant delays. We regretfully announce that as of today (Friday 11th December), we cannot guarantee any new orders or existing backorders placed will be delivered in time for Christmas. Of course, we will continue to accept and process orders as normal and dispatch orders as soon as stock becomes available.

The X-POLE UK and Europe office will be closed for Christmas from Wednesday, December 23rd and reopen on Monday 4th January 2021. Any orders placed during this time will be processed on our return to the office.

 

International Pole Camp 2020 in partnership with X-POLE

Posted on by Joey

Supporting the Pole Industry during a time of crisis is a key commitment of X-POLE, our aim is to maintain and exceed our level of service to the pole and aerial industry.

Now in its eighth year, the International Pole Camp, hosted by TKM Events in the beautiful four-star Bibione Palace Spa Hotel in Bibione, Italy will take place from 24th September to the 27th.

All pole and aerial equipment is provided by X-POLE, for a truly topflight experience.

This is the fourth year X-POLE and International Pole Camp have partnered to bring the premier pole and aerial camp to Bibione.

As always, the organisers have worked hard all year round following the last edition of the event to provide a roster of workshops and shows featuring the elite of the pole and aerial world, including Bénédicte Rinaldi, Dimitry Politov, Alessandra Marchetti, Doris Arnold, Julia Pengler, Gloria Veit and Nicole Blum-Pedrazza.

To find out more about whats on offer, the dates, location and prices, please click here.

This year’s program is packed with workshops, take a look at the schedule below (the organiser reserves the right to change this schedule at any time without prior notice):

Thursday, 9/24/2020

Participants will travel to and from the hotel themselves

from 11.00 a.m. Check-in at the organizer’s desk

from 12 p.m. Moving into the room

2.45 p.m. – 3.15 p.m. Meet & Greet

3.30 p.m. – 5.45 p.m. Workshops

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Dinner in the large dining room

9 p.m. Chill-out on the terrace and at the bar

Friday, September 25th, 2020

7.30 a.m. – 10.00 a.m. Breakfast in the large dining room

9 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. Workshops

12.30pm – 1.30 p.m. Lunch in the large dining room

2.00 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. Workshops

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Dinner in the large dining room

9 p.m. Chill-out on the terrace and at the bar

Saturday, September 26th, 2020

7.30 a.m. – 10.00 a.m. Breakfast in the large dining room

9 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. Workshops

12.30pm – 1.30 p.m. Lunch in the large dining room

2.00 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. Workshops

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Dinner in the large dining room

9.30pm – 10.30 p.m. Showtime on the pool terrace

Sunday, September 27th, 2020

7.30 a.m. – 10.00 a.m. Breakfast in the large dining room

9 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. Workshops

12.30pm – 1.30 p.m. Lunch in the large dining room

until 5 p.m. the use of the rooms is possible. Check-out and individual departure of the participants

Check out last years event below:

Find around 200 pictures 📸 from polecamp 2019 now at https://bit.ly/2PbS67TPlease tag yourself in the pictures! ❤

Posted by International Polecamp on Wednesday, October 23, 2019