Pole dance is often viewed solely as a performance art, but there are more benefits that go far beyond the tricks that can be done. Pole exercise can encompass so many benefits across many areas, including strength building, flexibility, stability, balance, and coordination.

The exercises used in pole can enhance overall strength, whether you are taking a pole class to learn new tricks or a strength and conditioning class like vertical barre to use the pole to tone your body. Pole can touch base on every type of muscle group, including core muscles, chest muscles and upper and lower back muscles and more. When you are climbing, spinning or holding a pose your muscles are constantly engaged which increases your strength and endurance. The strength that pole can provide the entire body is limitless. It promotes a functional strength that can be translated into so many other physical activities and daily life tasks. It offers a full body workout that strengthens multiple muscle groups that goes beyond what a traditional exercise routine can provide. 

Pole exercise improves flexibility and range of motion. Not only does flexibility improve through warmups but it improves through learning and practicing tricks. During split moves there is a significant stretch in areas like the hamstrings and hip flexors. There are many moves that help stretch and strengthen the back and spine, as well as the shoulders. By practicing pole tricks you can improve your flexibility and your range of motion, while understanding all of your body’s capabilities.

Core stability is an important component of the human body and is significantly improved through pole. It helps with posture and alignment and improves balance and coordination. With improved posture and alignment the body has reduced risks of injury and pain. There needs to be a lot of balance for spins, holds and inversions which improves someone’s spatial awareness. Many moves require specific coordination at the right time in order to move through them, which improves overall coordination for someone.

Overall, pole dance is more than just a performance art, and is an amazing exercise that can enhance so many parts of the whole body. By incorporating pole into your workout routine, you can support your health and wellbeing in many areas.