What to Expect When Starting Pole or Lyra
Updated: Jan 18
#poledance #whattoexpectwithpoledance #poledancetips #beginningpoledance #aeriallyra
So, you’ve decided to give pole dancing or aerial dance a try. Woo Hoo!!
First of all - give yourself kudos for trying something new and out of your comfort zone. It takes moxie to get started! You are beginning a unique journey, with surprising rewards to come.
So, what to expect while getting started out;
in your first class & couple of months?
1 - LET GO OF YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Many will share these common concerns and reservations:
“What if I don’t have enough upper body strength?”
"What if I have NO upper body strength?"
“What if I don’t have much experience in fitness or dance?”
“What if I am the most awkward person in the class?”
“What if I am too old/out of shape/(insert whatever reason) to get started?”
Believe it or not - many agree that the hardest step is THE VERY FIRST STEP - getting into your first class. All of these (& more) reservations may be present for you.
Know that:
1 - these feelings are totally normal,
2 - these are insecurities, and not FACTS,
3 - the beliefs that you bump up against are powerfully telling. - Understand that these beliefs are also holding you back far more in life than just taking your first pole class.
~ DON'T LET THESE BELIEFS GET THE BETTER OF YOU. ~
Find a reputable studio or instructor, and attend their intro or beginning classes. They will start you at the very the beginning. Anyone reputable will tell you that a strong foundation of understanding, alignment and technique will take you further than sheer strength will. Know that there is no pressure to advance or progress at any specific rate - you’ll start at the basics and build from there, at your own pace.
Progress will manifest as many things. Be open to being surprised.
2 - THERE IS NO SET RATE FOR IMPROVEMENT
Realize that every body will advance and progress differently, as well as begin in a different place. It’s true - that if you have previous dance, yoga, fitness, rock climbing, surfing, mosh pitting - or whatever movement practice - you will likely have a relatively quicker time advancing - at least initially. And if you have no experience - well, there’s a lot of cool things your body will start becoming accustomed to!
And - the more you move your body in general, and engage it with the world around you - you’ll bring that awareness and strength into your pole or aerial practice.
Another VERY IMPORTANT thing to consider - is HOW OFTEN will you be attending classes or doing personal practice?
Yes, you will advance quicker if you are attending 3 - 4 times per week (be sure to always keep “rest” days in between). But that's not necessary for improvement;