health
March 2, 2026
My rookie era: in a period of heartbreak, learning to pole dance gave me structure
I disliked my first encounter with pole, but two years later my experience with the sport has made me appreciate my body and my self-determination
TL;DR
- The author's first pole dancing class in 2023 was a painful and dizzying experience, leaving her with a bruised ego.
- Two years later, seeking new activities after a breakup, she tried a striptease class that led to a trial pole class.
- This second pole class was a positive experience, with a supportive instructor and a homey atmosphere.
- Pole dancing provided structure during a period of heartbreak, becoming a sacred Sunday afternoon ritual.
- After nine months, the author attends multiple classes weekly, tracking her progress on Instagram and achieving new skills like inversions and performing in heels.
- She experienced a mild injury due to overtraining but learned to scale back and focus on recovery and body attunement.
- Pole dancing has deepened her appreciation for her body, taught her patience, and reinforced her self-determination.
- The author now respects the sport's history, diverse styles, and the communal, encouraging nature of pole studios.
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