3. Warm-up/Cool-down
Does your class do a warm-up and cool-down?
If no, then run the other way! That tells you right there they are not qualified to be teaching a physical fitness class.
You must do at a minimum 10 minutes warm-up and 10-15 cool-down and stretch. If you do not do this you are at a great risk of muscle injury, and of course we don’t want that!
When you cool-down, ask what they do. Do they stretch every muscle in your arms, back and chest? Even the little tiny ones in your wrist need a good stretch afterwards, plus, hey, it feels good!
Also, if you are in a class and are sharing a pole..so one person is on the pole while the others sit and watch, this is a HUGE problem. By just sitting waiting for your turn, your body is cooling off, your muscles aren’t warm and you are NOT ready to hop on the pole, again, injury is at it’s highest when your muscles are cool.
Please don’t take this lightly, having dealt with many sleepless nights because of my own rotator cuff problems early on, it is NOT a problem that you want!
4. Progression
Can I go upside down my first class?
No, you should never be allowed to go upside down in your very first class. You should also not be doing things such as climbing in your first classes.
You’re body needs to condition itself for these types of moves. If you are climbing or doing inverts in your first few classes, then you have an excellent chance of getting hurt. (especially that darn rotator cuff area!)
Moves should be taught in a progressive manner. One move should lead to the next, you should not be jumping in head first so to speak.
Hopefully this checklist will help you choose your pole dance studio no matter what city you’re in!
Remember, pole dancing is a fantastic way to get fit and get in touch with your own body, but it can be dangerous in the wrong hands!
Be safe and Happy Pole’ing!
Summer Morris
Head Diva aka owner
Diva Den Studio
Portland, OR
*May be re-printed with permission only
