Pole in its many and varied forms has been around for quite a while. Maypole dance - dancing around a wooden pole, twisting ribbons, is a Pagan fertility ritual that dates back to the 12th century.

The use of a pole in exercise goes back at least 800 years to the Indian sport of Mallakhamb, gymastic feats of strength and endurance performed on a wooden pole, wider in diameter than a standard modern pole.

Chinese Pole evolved from Mallakhamb, using poles that more closely resemble a modern pole dance pole. The poles were covered in rubber for grip; athletes would display their stamina and nerves of steel, leaping between two poles many meters above the ground.

Both Chinese Pole and Mallakhamb were predominantly male sports, and both very different to modern Pole Dancing in the West.

In the 1920's, pole became a feature in travelling circus' and sideshows. Women would dance seductively for an audience around the central tent pole.

In the 1950's, the 'dancing pole' moved into bars and clubs and married with Burlesque, which was becoming a more accepted form of entertainment.

By the 1980's, pole dance was being incorporated into striptease routines in clubs throughout Canada and North America. This led to the transition throughout the 1990's of pole expanding from clubs and being developed as an art form and fitness exercise regime.

Modern day Pole dancing has evolved into a fitness practiced not only by professionals and performers, but by everyone from students and gym-goers to national and internationally recognised Pole Athletes. Pole is practiced by both men and women alike.

Pole Dancing as a fitness has made its mark across the world from the US, Europe, Australia, England, NZ and Asia. Pole Studios, Academies, Competitions both nationally and internationally are on the rise.

The International Pole Dance Fitness Association are seeking to gain the International Olympic Committees recognition of Pole Dance as a sport.

Pregnancy and Pole

Pole is physically strenuous and not all Doctors and Midwives will understand the demands we place on our bodies when we pole. It is up to us to educate them!. If you think there is a possibility you are pregnant before you start pole classes you must inform us. If you have had a baby it is recommended that you do not return to Pole class until 6 weeks after a natural birth (with Doctors clearance) and 10-12 weeks after a C-section (with Doctors clearance)

Pole may be continued if you have been physically active prior to pregnancy. Pole is not an advisable activity for a high-risk pregnancy.