The Pole Dancing Shop

Pole Dance International Magazine has actually been reviewing and researching this topic for over a year. We have been searching the globe, talking to people everywhere and interviewing those who are actively involved in sharing pole fitness with the youth. It has been a long time coming! What we have found may surprise-and excite you.  We hope to address your curiosity and invite you to become advocates of the next generation of pole.

Globally, the idea of kids on poles is not necessarily a popular one. It is still very new in it's beginning stages. There are many people who would view this idea as ridiculous-even as far as to make accusations of shameless exploitation. However, those who are expressing such opinions are usually the same ones who are against having anyone on a pole...regardless of their age or gender. Our research found that many people just hadn't thought about the idea at all.  Even within our own community of pole, many of those we interviewed had just never really entertained the thought of actually training a child to pole dance. The light quickly went on, though, when we asked 'who will carry on the sport when we aren't able to?' A good point, they agreed. And a good point indeed. Believe it or not, the day will surely come when those who reign supreme in the industry now will no longer be able to carry the torch.  It's a sad thought, to consider a life without hours of pole a day in it.  Truth be told, though, most of us who are currently leading the way into the future didn't discover the passion for pole and its' potential until well into our adult years.  Pole fitness has only become more accessible to the masses in the past 5 years, and it continues to grow. By now, many performers, instructors and students of pole fitness have kids of their own. As we look around, we note that the ages of those interested in learning pole are becoming younger and younger. A common story we shared with many pole athletes in the community was that their kids and those of their friends and even students, are taking to the pole.  Moms are bringing their teen daughters to class and studio owners are accommodating students by allowing including children in certain classes and activities.  Most of all, those with kids at home are sharing the pole with their younger counterparts. And this is where it starts.

We can see it all now-the future of pole.  The students get younger and younger.  Boys and girls alike want to try the pole moves and tricks they see their parents and older siblings doing.  The pole looks like fun-like a playground to children, and they can't resist jumping on.  Kids admire their parents strength and grace as they watch them practice and perform. 

One day, the 12 year old comes home and says he wants to sign up for the school talent show.  He wants to do a pole routine-on stage-in front of everyone...
The 5 year old asks, "can I perform at the fair with you?". The teen daughter, who has been training in your living room for years wants to instruct and be certified at your studio.  The 9 year old thinks, "I'll be 17 in 2020. I want to win a gold medal for pole in the Olympics".

This is what our youth are thinking about. This is what they know about pole fitness.  They know what they see.  They are watching us learn, perform, instruct, compete and educate.  Kids see the strength, beauty and challenge of the pole-and especially, the fun.  They have likely heard us talking about stereotypes and people who don't like what we do, but they don't care.  They are watching you-not listening to them.

This is where it starts. This is the future of pole-right now. Welcome to the future, everyone. Old...and young.

Photos thanks to: Anthony Jr.,Jezabel Olmos & Lizz Schofield

Written by: Chastitie Lujan
Tell us about the youth you know who love pole!
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