The Philippine Online Chronicles

Pole-dancing is steadily gaining local popularity as a unique form of exercise.  What used to be a form of entertainment strictly associated with strip clubs and gentlemen’s clubs is now being recognized for the most basic skills required to perform the art of dancing with a vertical pole.  It is basically a combination of dancing and gymnastics, comparable to aerobics and acrobatics, which means that its dancers need significant amount of core and upper body strength, flexibility and fluidity of movement.  Since it gained popularity, schools local and abroad have toned down its overall sex appeal to concentrate on the gymnastic moves instead.  However, pole-dancing’s major attraction is that it is traditionally performed sensually, and many women see this as a powerful and dominant form of expression and a celebration of their sexuality.

Common pole-dancing moves are usually athletic ones, since they involve climbing, spinning, stretching and even turning oneself upside down, so to perform the dance sexily does require a lot of effort.  Dressing for it should be much simpler, however.  The clothes are very sexy, but the skin-baring is more than just for show—it is a necessity.  To perform the complicated moves in dancing, bare skin is used for gripping the pole.  Bare arms and legs allow for more friction and a stronger hold than covered ones, and they keep the dancer from slipping or falling.  Here are a few tips on what to wear, from practice poles to stage performances.

Paloma Esmeria pole dances at the FHM 100 Sexiest party

For the top:

For practice, choose a top that easy to move in, such as a light cotton shirt, a vest or a camisole.  If you wear a top that is too loose, it may become a hindrance to your dancing by getting caught up in your arms if you’re not used to the moves yet.  Sleeveless, tight tops are very good options.  Many pole dancers actually prefer to leave the midriff and even the back bare.  The exposed skin can always help support the body when it is contact with the pole and it is easier for overall movement.

Casual and cotton tops are fine for practice, but when the dance is performed in front of an audience, many dancers opt for sparkly bikinis, sexy lace brassieres or flashy haltered tops that can stay put during complicated maneuvers (because pole dancing doesn’t automatically equate to stripping!).  The important thing is for women to feel comfortable as well as sexy, because when they are, the dance looks more natural and graceful.

For the bottom:

Strong legs for gripping the pole are important in this kind of dance, especially since some techniques do require turning upside down—in which case, it’s the legs of the dancer that’s holding her up.  Shorts or hotpants are recommended—the shorter they are, the better, but only as long as they cover up the goods adequately in between dance moves.  It doesn’t really matter what fabric is used, be it cotton, denim or leather.

Boy-leg and bikini bottoms are also common pole-dancing fare.  Skirts are rarely used, if at all, unless they are part of some risqué costuming, usually with a matching pair of lovely knickers.  As long as it’s short, and will not make the dancer feel self-conscious, it will serve its purpose.  Some pole dancers are really flashy and may pick something with fancy embellishments, but don’t try it unless you are already very experienced as these things can make you slip.

For the feet:

Barefoot is the best way to go, because you can easily climb, jump and move by being shoeless.  However, pole-dancing being a sexy kind of performance art, many dancers opt to wear killer heels and platforms.  Beginners are highly discouraged from wearing heels, but they can work their way up with better mastery of the moves.

If you are ready to wear shoes while pole-dancing, the popular choices are strappy stiletto heels, knee high boots (also with heels) and platforms.  Patent leather material is also said to be helpful in gripping the pole.

What NOT to wear:

Avoid tights, leggings, and anything that covers the legs, unless you want to hurt yourself.  Just because they’re known for allowing more freedom in movement (hence their popularity in other forms of exercises) doesn’t mean they’re right for pole dancing.  These kinds of materials and clothing will just make you slip and possibly fall on your head.  The more the leg is exposed, the better, because the skin grips the pole better than any cloth.

Ditch the sneakers, unless they’re part of the costume.  They’re only good for warm-ups and they totally defeat the purpose of being sexy.

Again, unless they are part of your costume and you are very experienced, avoid wearing gloves.  Bare palms are the best to use for gripping and holding the pole as you execute twirls and acrobatic movements.  They conform best to your movement and you can easily feel or adjust your weight appropriately.

Photos from Paloma Esmeria, used with her permission.