Be Thankful for Your Body’s Abilities

Before I took up pole dancing, I underestimated its physical demands and the strain it can place on the body, a realization that hit me after a minor mishap. This experience has taught me to never take my fitness for granted again. Having a body capable of running, jumping, and expressing itself in beautiful ways is a privilege that requires maintenance and mindful choices. The greatest gift I’ve received from pole dancing is an appreciation for my physical abilities. Embracing Stoic principles, I recognize that health is fleeting, and I commit to cherishing what my body can achieve, waking up each day with gratitude for my well-being.

Mindfulness: The Essential Skill

Prior to pole dancing, I practiced yoga for two years, learning the importance of being present with my body and breath. However, pole dancing has challenged me in ways yoga never did. When you’re suspended upside down by one leg, there's no room for panic or overthinking. Instead, you must focus on your breath, trust your body, and know how to position your limbs to avoid injuries.

Pole dancing has also taught me that every muscle has its role. To excel, I need to develop strength throughout my entire body, not just target specific areas. This awareness has spilled over into my everyday life, allowing me to appreciate my meals more and cultivate mindfulness in all my activities. I find myself enjoying food without distractions and focusing on my breath during physical exertion, enhancing my overall experience.

Food: An Investment in Well-Being

Before embracing pole dancing, I viewed food merely as a means to satisfy hunger. I have always been skeptical of diet culture, believing you don’t need to "earn" treats if you maintain a consistent exercise routine. However, as I spent more time dancing, I learned that what I eat directly impacts my energy levels and performance.

I’ve realized that a healthy diet is not about achieving a certain weight but rather about supporting the activities I love. Some insights I’ve gathered include:

• Junk food may provide a quick energy boost but often leads to fatigue and low mood shortly after.
• Eating meals rich in fiber and protein is crucial for sustaining energy during workouts; my favorite pre-workout snack is a peanut butter and banana sandwich paired with Reishi tea.
• Sugary beverages are not worth it. For instance, a soft drink packs around 140 calories—equivalent to two small bananas. Choosing fruit can satisfy sweet cravings more healthily.
• A vegetable-rich dinner is the best choice, keeping hunger at bay through the night.

As nutrition expert Alan Aragon states, “Every meal is a short-term investment in how you feel and perform, a mid-term investment in how you look, and a long-term investment in your freedom from disease.”

Strength Training: A Vital Component

Initially, I avoided strength training out of fear that it would make me appear "masculine." However, my experience with pole dancing has highlighted the importance of muscle strength for a functional life. In my early classes, I struggled with basic climbs due to weak forearms.

Strength training over the past several months has equipped me with newfound poise and confidence as a pole dancer. Besides the obvious benefits, I’ve noticed some unexpected perks:

• Improved sleep patterns and punctuality.
• An uplifted mood following intense workouts.
• Hydration becomes effortless as training sessions leave me thirsty.
• Enhanced performance in daily activities; for example, I can now easily lift my 70-pound dog.

It's essential to understand that gaining visible muscle as a woman is a gradual process, even with a diet rich in protein. So, if you're hesitant to hit the gym due to appearance concerns, I encourage you to overcome those fears and take the plunge.

Discover the health benefits of pole dance fitness as explained by a doctor, highlighting its impact on heart health and overall fitness.