10 Safety Rules for Pole Dancing

Have you dipped your toe into pole dancing? You see all those tricks and think to yourself, "I can do that!" As fun and easy as it looks, there are necessary precautions you must take to avoid injuries. So, here are 10 safety rules for pole dancing to keep in mind.

1. Skin is in

If you don't want to slip on the pole, you need to use your skin. To do that, avoid covering certain body parts with fabric.

A pole dancer's typical outfit keeps body parts exposed for a better grip on the pole. These are the arms, hands, knees, calves, ankles, and feet. So, forget long sleeves and full-length bottoms.

Instead, go for short-sleeved or sleeveless tops and shorts. When pole dancing, skin is definitely in!

2. Diamonds aren't your BFF

When pole dancing, wearing fashion accessories such as rings, earrings, and necklaces are a no-no. Not only does it damage the pole, but it also ruins your jewelry!

On top of that, you wouldn't want to risk getting poked in the eye with your own necklace. Or, your skin getting caught in between the pole and your ring. Would you now?

3. Wash it off

Do you get that slippery sensation when your moisturized skin starts to sweat? You might want to avoid that by washing your hands. Otherwise, It will keep you from gripping the pole properly.

When that happens, performing difficult moves becomes harder. You also end up exerting more energy than what is necessary. So, minimize the risk of injuries by washing your hands before touching that pole.

4. Keep Your Palms Bare

You'll see different pole dancing gloves sold in the market. These help you climb the pole more easily and safely. Or so they say.

Gloves often cover your pals, which might cause you to slip as you bust more advanced moves. Your best bet would be not to wear gloves, especially if you're a beginner. But if you're dead set on wearing one, make sure the gloves do not cover your palms.

5. Crash Mats are Non-negotiable

If there's one more equipment you need besides a pole, it's a crash mat.

Crash mats are for everyone. These keep you from hitting the hard floor for every slip and fall. However, some pole dancers forget this and become too confident in their skills.

Remember, you will take more falls as you advance towards more difficult moves. If you want to lessen any risk of injuries, use a crash mat.

6. Perform a Load Test

Do not attempt to get on a pole without proper load tests. Pole dancers get too eager sometimes and fail to do thorough tests. Trust me, the last thing you want is to drag the pole with you to the ground.

A pole that's been installed properly must be tight and secure. If you feel even the slightest movement, check the screws. This might be common sense, but it still can't be stressed enough.

7. Call a friend

Your spotter is like your friend. A spotter helps you, supports you, and is there for you when you fall--literally!

Always have a spotter with you, especially when learning new moves. They will help you achieve the right form, which lessens injuries.

8. Stretch, Stretch, Stretch!

There is nothing more painful than tearing a ligament here or a muscle there due to lack of warm-up. If you want to improve your body and your pole dancing skills, you must never skip warm-up and cool down.

So, stretch those arms, those legs, and everything in between!

9. Tighten Your Grip

Does your sweat get in the way of performing your favorite moves? Use grip aids! They help you get a tighter grip on the pole.

There are grip aids for different skin types. They also come in the form of a spray, liquid chalk, and body grip. Whether your skin is dry or you sweat a lot, grip aids will be your lifesaver.

10. Know Your Limits

Learning a new move can get pretty exciting. However, pole dancers become too excited, they start to forget their body limits.

If you feel tired, rest. If a move is too difficult, ease your way into it. Respect what your body can and cannot do at the moment to avoid hurting yourself.

These safety measures may seem a lot to take in, but an ounce of prevention is always better than a pound of cure. So, stay safe on the pole by performing these safety tips!