Pole dancing originated in the 1920's at the height of the American depression.  Traveling fairs would have a group of women dance suggestively on a small stage in front of cheering crowds. Due to the size of the tent, the tent pole would be situated at the very edge of the stage.  The dancer would approach the tent pole and begin to dance with it. The tent pole became known, as the dance pole, which still exists today, be it in a more technically advanced and socially acceptable form.

Pole dancing gradually began evolving from tents to bars as burlesque became more acceptable in the 1950's. Nothing much was heard until the 1980's when pole dancing and striptease became popular in Canada and then in the USA. The 1990's saw Miss Fawnia Mondey (Canadian) take the art of pole dancing and begin teaching this to the every day woman. She produced the first instructional pole fitness and dance DVD. 2000 - 06 have been the most promising years, especially with the launch of YouTube. Pole dancing has evolved into different genres--exotic, pole fitness, and pole sport, and there is a great deal of difference between them.

The International Pole Federation, the Pole Fitness Association, the US Pole Dance Federation, and the International Pole Sports Federation are unique organizations, governed by the leaders in the pole industry, for the benefit of pole dancers worldwide. They are setting standards for studios, instructors, and pole students to provide consistent, safe, and effective teaching methods. Pole dancers across the world hope that we will soon see pole dancing accepted as a reputable form of dance fitness and exercise. The leading pole organizations are even petitioning to have Pole Fitness in the Olympics!

There are three categories of pole dance:

1.      Exotic dance—this is what most people think of when they think of pole dancing. The women involved in this category are more involved in the ‘entertainment’ side of pole.

2.      Pole Fitness—this is the category that most women are involved in. Pole dancing is used as a way to get fit and feel good. Classes are taken in a private studio or gym.

3.      Pole Sport—this is the competitive side of pole. The women involved in this category compete around the world and are involved with the Olympic pursuit.

Pole Classes provide a unique workout for women of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels.

You can get fit, have fun, and feel fabulous!