[HonieT]

When I last posted here I was in the process of working with a sports physical therapist for my upper back pain. In my case this help immensely! As long as I keep up with the targeted exercises prescribed I stay out of pain. They were able to access my imbalances and get me more balanced with a ton of weight bearing exercises. I also get deep tissue massage once or twice a month to help with scar tissue and rhomboid knots. Good-luck to al!.

[HonieT]

I like Veena’s response in that she teaches Caterpillar first. I think my extended butterfly got a lot stronger when once I achieved a caterpillar climb but never though about it ’til now>

[HonieT]

Hi. I jut wanted to add my two cents worth because I believe strongly in some of the advice here. I have been studying pole for 5 years and teaching the last year and a half. I have learned most of my good practices with Veena! It takes some discipline to train your non-dominate side but, it is so worth it!! In addition to the already mentioned examples play around with these: when in pole sit or inverted “T” (inverted crucifix) take your torso and corresponding arm around the pole on one side and then the other without switching leg positioning. This will also let you feel the balance of equally training both sides.

[HonieT]

Thank you for this article Lucca. A friend of mine could really use this info

[HonieT]

They have sooo many products Olivia. Do you know which one is the appropriate one?
~Thanks

[HonieT]

Thank you Olivia. I will look into that!

[HonieT]

Hello ladies, I want to join this club! I almost gave this up about a year and a half ago because I thought I might just be too old at 46. Then I discovered Greta Pontarelli and became so inspired. I am now completing a pole instructors certification and loving every minute of my (painful) practice and teaching!!! I have a ballet backround and this gives me a new creative outlet!!

[HonieT]

Tasha J and others, How long have you been working at these moves? It takes me months sometimes to achieve a move. Don’t over train but stick with it and get proper instruction. It is often a slight adjustment that makes the difference. For me this was the case for a forearm grip Ayesha. The use of a mat also give me more “guts” to try advanced moves. Keep at it!

[HonieT]

Yay!!! Finally a good use for my big feet! Lol. But, also I agree that body type plays a big role. I have a long torso which is good for pregnancy but, I think it makes a shoulder mount more difficult…at least that what I’m going with…

[HonieT]

Two hours a day, every other day is a lot for a beginner. I practice or teach up to three hours, two to three times a week, mostly in the evenings after work. I try to get a 30 min nap in between and I have been poling for 2 years. I feel a burst of energy after classes but, the next day I do sometimes feel spent when I get up in the morning. I think part of it is like any other exercise. Don’t go too hard too fast. Make sure you are well hydrated and getting enough protein/carbs to support your muscles. See a doc for B vitamin levels, and other nutrients if it continues.

[HonieT]

@aerialgypsy Thanks so much for your information. I will look into the GFI. I am already registered for Discoveries Dance next month. Glad to hear positive feedback on that!

[HonieT]

Thank you Venna for your input and advice! Jsheridan, I’m so glad you took the time to share your expert knowledge on the various programs. I am a physical therapist assistant working full time in a LTAC hospital and teaching a few pole fitness classes each week. I’m in the process of becoming pole certified and just recently started thinking about expanding my skills to include personal training. I really don’t have a solid idea of what direction I might take and appreciate any additional insight you might have for me based on your experience hiring trainers. The vast majority of my skill set has been with the critically ill or injured and geriatrics.

[HonieT]

I too have had a life changing experience through pole dance.It has been the snowiest and coldest winter I have ever experienced. In years past, I would have been miserable and unable to find an ounce of motivation to go to the gym. My pole practice changed all of that.I can’t miss class for anything! Not even this weather! I’ve been happier and healthier all winter!

[HonieT]

Hello to all rhomboid injured. I was researching this discussion because I am having the same problem and wondering how everyone is doing with this? I agree with Amy’s post. I have noticed that when I very consciously abduct my left scapula and take out the rounding forward my injured muscle doesn’t hurt as much. But, now that it is a chronic problem, I am definitely limited in my progress. I just started working with a physiotherapist/chiropractor who is helping me identify and target weaknesses/imbalances. Hope all are recovering!

[HonieT]

Thank you Veena for posting this lesson in response to our discussion. I remember seeing it a while back. I think I speak for everyone when I say I really appreciate your expert knowledge and fabulous resource of your website!!!