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Is pole dancing a sport? Have you ever considered asking this question to yourself? What image appears in your head when you first hear Pole dance? Strip clubs, I believe. Pole dancing is one of the most fun activities you can opt for if you want to engage your core and test your physical endurance. However, pole dancing is something always linked with sexual activities and erotic behaviour one that you can always see in clubs where men and women try to appeal to people with their erotic moves using a steel pole.
Little did you know that pole dancing is not just a fun activity you may have seen in clubs but is a legit sport. Sport? Pole dancing is a sport. Yes, you read it right pole dancing is a sport. Then why I have never seen it on television or in the Olympic games? Well, because it never got the recognition it deserved as a sport, and if you are wondering why? Then, here is everything you might want to know about pole sports.
1. What is Pole Dancing? A Sports Performance, Dance, or Workout?
Pole dancing originated in the 12th century and was celebrated differently in different cultures. In addition to being an erotic dance, pole dance is also an exercise that can be found in gyms and dedicated dance studious because it involves both exercise and acrobatics. Despite, the fact that most pole dancers are adults, children are still learning and competing in competitions because pole dancing has an identity beyond strip clubs.
Pole dancing enthusiasts are of all ages, and amateur and professional pole dancing competitions are held in different countries at different levels. While some view pole dancing as an athletic discipline that requires strength, skills, and technique, others see it as a form of entertainment or sensual expression.
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1.1 Is Pole Dancing a Sport, Performance, Dance, or Workout
Pole dance is physically demanding and requires significant upper body, core, and physical strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. Competitions often include categories such as dynamic moves, aerial tricks, and floor work, which are judged based on difficulty, execution, and style. To excel at pole dancing, athletes must undergo rigorous training, practice, and conditioning to build strength and improve their skills.
Furthermore, pole dancing has become increasingly popular as a form of fitness and exercise, with many studious offering classes for individuals of all ages and skill levels. The physical demands of pole dancing, such as pulling one’s body weight up a pole and performing acrobatics, provide a full-body workout that can improve overall fitness coordination and flexibility.

With that, we can simply conclude that pole dancing could be anything depending on your goal and desire. It can be a good workout if you want to build some upper-body strength and flexibility. If you have honed your skills, you can perform pole dance as a speciality, and if you want to move a little ahead and compete with your peers then it is a competitive sport.
1.2 Pole Dancing was a Pole Sport in India
Pole dancing indeed has roots in India, where it was performed as a traditional dance form known as Mallakhamb. This ancient sport involves performing acrobatic gymnastic feats while hanging from a vertical wooden pole and has been practised in India for hundreds of years. While Mallakhamb shares some similarities with modern-day pole dancing. It is important to know that the two forms of dance have evolved and taken different directions over time.
Pole dancing has developed into a more contemporary style of dance and fitness that incorporates elements of gymnastics, dance, and acrobatics, while Mallakhamb has remained more traditional and focused on traditional athletic feats.

Overall, the connection between pole dancing and its roots in India highlights the diversity and evolution of this form of dance and the various cultural influence that have shaped it over time. Whether it is considered a sport or not, pole dancing continues to be a popular and dynamic form of expression and physical activity.
1.3 It Was Not Originally a Way of Sensual Performance and Acting
If you look at the big picture pole dancing as a form of dance and athletic performance art has a long history that predates its association with sexuality and entertainment. In early forms, pole dancing was performed as a means of physical fitness, and entertainment, and it was never considered something erotic or sexual. Over time, pole dancing evolved and took direction in various cultures, and it was eventually introduced into strip clubs and cabarets as a form of erotic entertainment.
However, it is important to direct the focus on pole dancing being an official sport in many countries and to execute techniques in pole dancing, pole classes are mandatory. The perception of pole dancing has changed and evolved, and it continues to challenge societal norms and expectations. Being a part of popular culture, pole dancing is getting the official recognition it deserves as a pole sport.

2. Rules and Regulations for Pole Dancing
Pole dancing is a physically demanding activity that requires a certain level of skill and strength. As such, some various rules and regulations pole dancers have to abide by while showcasing their physical abilities in international competitions. Here are a few common rules that a pole dancer must follow.
2.1 Age Restrictions
competitors must typically be at least 18 years of age to participate in international competitions, and world championships. Due to the nature of pole sports, it is suggested to take participants above 18 years of age. By that age, one is mentally and physically prepared to compete in competitions.
2.2 Physical Requirements
Participants must demonstrate a high degree of physical fitness and strength and should have no medical conditions that could be exacerbated by activity. Generally, you don’t need extreme physical strength to start pole dancing, but if you are competing in championships and other leagues you need to have the proper enduring ability and movements to compete with your peers.
2.3 Clothing Requirements
Competitors are usually required to wear form-fitting clothing that allows them to grip the pole, such as athletic wear or shorts and a tank top, shoes are usually not allowed on the pole, and the participants may be required to wear pole-specific shoes or grip-enhancing products.
2.4 Music Requirements
Competitors may be required to provide their music for their performance art, and the music must meet certain criteria, such as being appropriate for a public audience and not containing explicit lyrics. Often pole dancing is linked with sexual appeal and strip clubs because of the music choices. To not let that happen make sure to have a rhythm that does not depict sexuality or vulgarity in any way.
2.5 Safety Equipment
Venues may provide safety mats and other types of equipment to minimize the risk of injury. Participants should use this equipment as directed. Hygiene is one basic requirement all participants should follow. Such as, not wearing jewellery, or another sharp objects to avoid unnecessary circumstances.
3. The International Pole Sports Federation and the Members
The international pole sports federation (IPSF) is a non-profit organization that was established to promote pole sports as a recognized and respected athletic discipline. The IPSF is dedicated to providing a platform for pole athletes to showcase their skills and compete against each other at international competitions.
The international pole sports federation works closely with national pole sports federations to establish standards for competitions and to ensure the growth and development of pole dance around the world. Members of the IPSF include pole athletes, coaches, judges, and supporters from countries all over the world.
The international pole sports federation keeps putting their efforts to promote pole dance as a legitimate athletic discipline have been met with some resistance, as some people will associate pole dancing with the origin of strip clubs. However, the ISPF and its members continue to work towards changing these perceptions and promoting pole sports as a legitimate form of physical fitness and artistic expression.
4. Is Pole Dancing an Olympic Sports
Pole dancing is currently not an Olympic sport. The International Olympic Committee recognized a limited number of sports for inclusion in the Olympic program. and the process of adding a new sport can take several years. For a sport to be considered for inclusion in the Olympic program, it must meet certain criteria, such as being an internationally recognized sport and having a substantial global following.
Also, for a sport to become an official Olympic sport, the sport must be widely practised in a sufficient number of countries and adhere to Olympic values and principles. The International Federation for pole sport is working to promote pole sports as a legitimate athletic discipline and is recognized by the Global Association of International Sports Federations, a step towards recognition by the International Olympic Committee.
However, the process of adding a new sport to the Olympic program can be long and challenging, and it is currently uncertain if pole dancing will be recognized as an Olympic sport by the global association of the international sports federation.
5. Events and Competitions for Pole Sports/Dance
Pole sport also known as pole fitness or pole dance, has grown in popularity and recognition as a sport in recent years, with several events and competitions being held annually. Some of the major events and competitions for pole dance are as follows.
5.1 World Pole Sports Championship
The world pole sports championship is an international competition for pole athletes. It is organized by the International Sports Federation of [ole Sport and is held annually. The competition features different categories for professional and amateur pole athletes, as well as different levels of experience. The competition is a showcase of the skills and hard work of pole athletes from all over the world.

5.2 Pole World Cup
This is an international pole sports competition held annually, which attracts participants from all over the world. The pole world cup is a well-respected event in the pole dancing community and attracts a large number of participants and spectators from around the world. The pole world cup is a great opportunity for any pole dancer to gain recognition for their endurance ability and skills.
5,3 The Pole Sport & Fitness UK Championships
The pole sport & fitness championships are an annual pole dancing competition held in the United Kingdom. The competition allows the participants to showcase their best ability in pole dance and sports.
5.4 American Pole League Championships
American pole league championships are national championship competition held annually in the United States that represents the sport in different principles. The American pole league championship features categories for professional and amateur pole athletes.
6. Several Types of Pole Dancing
There are several different types of pole dancing, each with its unique characteristics and techniques. Some of the common pole dancing included.
6.1 Classical Pole Dancing
This style of pole dancing emphasizes grace and fluidity, incorporating elegant and stylized movements. Classic pole dancing is often performed to slow and seductive music and is characterized by long, flowing spins and poses.
6.2 Vertical Pole Dancing
This style of pole dancing emphasizes aerial movements and tricks, incorporating techniques such as inverts, hangs, and drops. Vertical pole dancing is performed to upbeat music and often involves a combination of spins, flips, and holds.
6.3 Chinese Pole Dancing
This style of pole dancing has its roots in traditional Chinese circus performances and incorporates techniques from gymnastics, dance, and martial arts. Chinese pole dancing is performed on a vertical pole and often involves acrobatic figures and stunts such as slides, climbs, and flips.
7. 6 Advantages of Pole Dancing
7.1 Improved Strength and Flexibility
Pole dancing requires a combination of strength and overall mobility which can lead to improvement in overall fitness. The dynamic movements involved in pole dancing engage the muscles in the arms, legs, core, and back, building strength in those areas. Other core engaging activities such as kettlebell lifting, and arm wrestling can also contribute to improving strength. However, pole dancing has significant movement and techniques.
7.2 Improved Posture and Coordination
As pole dancing requires precise control of movement and coordination, which can help to improve postures and overall body awareness. The dynamic movements involved in pole dancing engages multiple muscle groups at once, which can have a positive impact on posture. Additionally, the strength and mobility training involved in pole dancing helps to improve coordination and balance reducing the risk of injury and promoting overall functional movement.

7.3 Releases Stress
Pole dancing can be a fun and creative outlet for releasing stress and tension. The physical and mental demands of workouts can also help to distract from stressors and promote relaxation. Not only it releases mental stress but exerts physical tension. Pole dancing also you to choose music to perform the art. Music is also another source of releasing stress. While your brain is paying full attention to the movements and techniques it helps cluster your thoughts and brings clarity to them.
7.4 Cardiovascular Benefits
Pole dancing itself is a high-intensity full-body workout, elevating your heart rate and increasing cardiovascular endurance. This can have a positive impact on heart health, weight management, and overall fitness. If you are trying to lose weight but have a hectic work schedule, pole dancing can be a great option as it strengthens your muscles improve the mobility of joints, improves the quality of your heart, and helps manage weight by burning maximum calories.
7.5 Improve Body Confidence & Better Sleep
Many women feel have low self-esteem and confidence because of how they look. The societal pressure to excel in their beauty standard makes it hard for women and even men to feel secure in their bodies. the constant desire to look firmer and more toned has taken over the Brillant minds. Nevertheless, if you want to increase your self-esteem and body confidence not for society but for yourself then pole dancing is the option for you.
Since pole dancing engages multiple muscle groups such as arm, legs, and core you are getting a full body workout. Not only if fixes your confidence but helps you sleep better. It improves blood circulation in your body, kills fatigue, and gives you killer body confidence and looks.
7.6 Social and Community Benefits
Many pole dancing studios and communities offer a supportive and inclusive environment providing opportunities for social interactions and building relationships with other pole dancers. Participating in pole classes can be a fun and engaging way to meet new people and connect with others who share a passion for fitness and dance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pole dancing is a sport organized by International Sports Federations we may have to wait a bit to see pole dancing in the Olympics. However, the president of the Global Association of International Sports Federation stated that shortly, we could expect pole dancing to be a part of the Olympic games.
Regardless of its classification, pole dancing provides a challenging workout that combines elements of strength, flexibility, endurance, and artistry. It can be a fun and engaging way to build physical and mental resilience. Pole dancing has the potential to provide numerous physical and mental benefits for those who practice.
Last Updated on by ritukhare