[LatinPoler]

The exercise that dustbunny is suggesting sounds very helpful. It will help you with the front of the leg strength mainly I think. For back of legs (hamstrings and butt) I recommend downward dog leg lifts and rainbows (lift the leg up, draw a rainbow out, tap the flor, reverse).

[LatinPoler]

Sounds like a leg strength thing… work on active flexibility and lower body strength. Veena’s lower body routines can help.

[LatinPoler]

I think that with the app you only get the lessons, but not the forum or the ability to upload videos.

[LatinPoler]

Thanks for the challenge Veena! Most IG challenges are about tricks, sometimes the crazier the better… yours was different, with focus on movement and dance and accesible for all levels. Tricks alone don’t speak to me as loud as mesmerizing movement. I look forward to the February one.

[LatinPoler]

Thanks! Yes, I do shoulder conditioning and stretches, a little randomly, as I have not followed any special program on this yet, but I think at least once a week, if not twice. Kind of regurlar. Interestingly, my dominant side shoulder is stronger but less flexy, while the other is weaker but has wider range of motion… It probably makes sense 🙂 I can do Juliet and ballerina on my good side only, frankly, I have not tried on the other side since I’m afraid to hurt myself. I look forward to the tips! Thanks Veena for considering it. You are the best!!!

[LatinPoler]

Thanks StrangeFox and Veena! Yes, sometimes I use the Yoga mat but since it’s gripping, it does not work well for some moves. FYI – I found shoulder pads that stick to the skin on Amazon and I purchased them… they are not a miracle but they protect a little and stay in place with few adjustments. I will have to make do with this!

[LatinPoler]

That would bet great, StrangeFox! Of course I can also buy the shrug and the shoulder pads and sew it myself, but I don’t think it would look very nice LoL. Still plan B.

[LatinPoler]

Just bumping this up, we need it handy!!!

[LatinPoler]

I’m 44, started when I was 42. I had dance and fitness background but not gymnastics, I was quite fit when I started poling but all that strenght did not seem to help much with pole in the beginning, since I was not used to “engage” muscles, just to use powerhorse. Streght did help in the end, for example, I was able to chopper very quickly. I agree that you can be more prone to injury and it can take you longer to recover, so take it easy. Regarding flexibility, I have certainly improved putting in the effort. I am not very flexible naturally, I think I’m average. So yes, you can pole being in your 40s.

Another advantage of being “older” is that you know your body better, what works or doesn’t work for it, etc. so use that to your advantage. For example, I don’t have any interest in learning handsprings, sice my lower body is heavier than my upper and I don’t think my upper can tolerate that, and I don’t want to risk injury.

The downside of brick and mortar studio classes is that you have to do what your teacher tells you to do, regardless you like it or think fits you. Good luck – you can do it!!

[LatinPoler]

Cleo, RAD, Luna, bikinis from Target 🙂 I don’t like Bad Kitty, their tops do not fit me well, and now that Cleo has the Essential line, I don’t care about their Brazils anymore. Victoria’s Secret low/medium impact sport Bras as tops. I’m not a fan of Mika either, not sexy enough for my liking 🙂

[LatinPoler]

I agree, poling in skimpy outfits is less appealing in winter! You may want to try sticky pole clothing, several brands make it, or maybe do low flow or floorwork, something that you can do bundled up. And when you get warmer, maybe peel up some layers and do aerial stuff? My suggestion is, do something that you like and can be done with warm cloths on! Then, move from there, whatever you feel up to. I live in Texas so no massive cold weather but it was a little cold today so I had problems with grip.

[LatinPoler]

Thanks!!! I should have checked here before asking on IG 😉 I look forward to it!!!!!!!!

[LatinPoler]

I have a visible vein in right calf (not varicose veins) and I don’t have any issues with pole dancing… I would say, exercise in general is good unless your case is advanced. Getting your blood flowing usually helps.

[LatinPoler]

My general thought is that it is a better idea to develop the techique and strengh, than rely on external “devices” to achieve something. Wrists a forearms can be strenghtened too, Veena has exercises for that. Always honor your body… it will let you know when it is ready. There might be exceptions of course, but as I always say, let’s not rush this. Pole is ajourney, enjoy the process

[LatinPoler]

Good to know Veena!! Lol