Pole dancing has shed its risque roots to emerge as a new and exciting fitness workout.
by Wan Ker-Hsin

ONCE RESERVED FOR THE PRIVACY OF SO-CALLED “GENTLEMEN’S CLUBS”, POLE DANCING IS FAST GAINING POPULARITY AS A LIBERATING AND EFFECTIVE WORKOUT FOR WOMEN. It’s not as easy as it looks; after a twirl around a pole, you will realize that supporting your entire body weight on one arm requires a lot of strength and effort. Many women lack upper-body strength, and pole dancing helps build that. It also increases stamina, burns calories, improves muscle tone and builds core strength. As pole dancing works the whole body, it improves your posture and flexibility. A toned and stronger body is not the only thing you’ll get, there are a host of psychological benefits too. After the first session, most women will get over their initial shyness and with each successive session, grow more confident about their own bodies. Pole dancing caters to women of all ages and body types, explains Emily Tan of Viva Vertical. “It’s all about getting a great workout while having fun expressing yourself!” she says. Try out these moves, suitable for beginners (program designed by Viva Vertical), and unleash the fit and sexy goddess in you.