POLE DANCER: STARTER PACK

Would you like to start pole dancing but don’t know where to begin? At Pole Factory, we know that the first steps in pole are the most complicated: you don’t know what you need, what to do or not to do, or even where to find information. So, we’ve put together a little checklist, a ‘starter pack’ for pole dancers, which – we hope – will help you see a little more clearly in this new passion!

Yes, it’s logical, we know. To do pole dance, you need… a pole dance pole. If you start by taking private or group lessons (which we strongly recommend if you want to learn the techniques correctly without risking injury), you won’t, of course, have to worry about the pole – normally everything is provided. However, if you decide, in parallel, to have one at home to train more, the famous question of ‘which pole to choose?’ will quickly arise!

First, you need to think about the type of pole. For example, if you have a false ceiling or if you want to pole outdoors, prefer podiums. If, on the contrary, you think you’ll be training in a smaller space and want to be able to remove it quickly, opt for a pole that is installed by a pressure system! In this second case, know that you will need:

• a solid ceiling (no unreinforced false ceiling)
• a free space with a radius of 1.5m all around the pole (so 3m in diameter, to pole in complete tranquility)
• know your exact ceiling height. While poles can adapt to several heights, additional extensions may be necessary!

Next, the diameter of the ‘tube’. Generally, you have a choice between 40, 42, and 45mm in diameter. Classic poles, which you’ll find in abundance in studios or during competitions, measure 45mm in diameter, so it might be interesting, if you want to maintain a certain habit, to keep the same size!
However, smaller diameters can be interesting if you have small hands, for example: the grip will be easier, more pleasant (but may be a little less comfortable on the legs).

Another point, and not the least, is the material. Chrome, stainless steel, brass, titanium gold, powder coated, silicone, gecko grip… You have the choice! For more details (and especially because it’s quite long to explain), we’ve already written everything in a dedicated article, which you can find here!

Finally, the brand. Because yes, all pole brands have their particularity! More or less spin, more or less flexible… the main thing is not to buy a ‘cheap’ pole or one without a real brand (for safety reasons). We’ve prepared a little comparison for you, here (yes, we’re leaving a bit of suspense 😉 )!

So, we warn you right away, there are two teams: the pro-crash mat team and the more reluctant team. Basically, both are right – we’ll explain.

If you train alone, or at least without spotting (basically, without someone to save your life ‘just in case’), a crash mat is a good idea: it allows you to avoid injury and be more confident to try new moves on your own. BUT be careful! Having a crash mat doesn’t mean you can just let yourself fall anyhow or test the impossible. If you train too often with it, you risk not learning how to ‘fall’ correctly or properly assess danger. Remember, there will always come a day when you won’t have a crash mat…

So yes, using a crash mat is good, but in moderation! 😉 Plus, they come in all types, more or less thick, round, square, etc… We offer our favorites here!