Why putting on a pair of heels can change everything...
One question that often comes up with new students or those looking to start pole dancing is - “Do I have to wear heels?”
No, you don’t have to wear heels. There are many full time pole dancers that go their whole career without heels! In saying that, we totally recommend trying them out 😉.. And here’s why 👇👇
Training in heels is actually great strength training!
Slapping on a pair of heels means adding a good kilo of weight! Great for testing your core strength with aerial moves, and for improving your ankle strength and stability. Once you’ve nailed a move barefoot, try it in heels! 😉
You’ll be able to try moves that you can’t do without heels!
Much like a Ballet dancer wearing pointe shoes, there are certain movements that are actually a lot easier (and safer) to do in heels. They protect your feet when learning floorwork and moves that use the base of the pole (basework). The large platform of the shoe also means you can drop to the ground and protect your knees in the process by landing on the front of the platform before your knees 🙌
Want to feel like an absolute badass? Put on a pair of heels!
Whether it’s the extra height they add, or the sound they make when you clack them together, heels can make you feel P-O-W-E-R-F-U-L! They demand attention and ooze sass, perfect for helping you step into your alter ego 😎
Alter egos are essentially characters that we create and play on in certain situations. Lots of performers and dancers will have a “go to” alter ego that helps them get out of their head and into performer mode, shaking off the nerves and putting on a layer of confidence for the crowd. Ever wondered why performers often use a different (stage) name to their own? That’s their alter ego baby!
The first time you pop a pair of heels on, it might be a bit more like Bambi than Baywatch 🙈😂 but practice regularly and you’ll be strutting around in no time!
Flourish in Flow Classes!
Showgirl, Hardstyle, Edgework, Huh?! These are all styles of pole flow that are heels specific! Head along to a heels flow class and learn a whole range of different movements, tapping into your sensual side along the way 🌶️
If you’re anything like me, I went from a bare foot beginner babe who loved slow, contemporary movements to someone who cannot live without a pair of heels strapped to my feet and a fast paced song to dance to! 😂
Flow classes are great for challenging your brain and body, and who knows you might find a new favourite style along the way!
So, have we convinced you yet? 😏🙌
If you’re thinking about trying out heels (which we hope you are!), then taking some time to learn about the history of pole is also super important 🩷 These beautiful shoes have been used by dancers in strip clubs long before they ever reached pole dance studios. They have been designed not just to be aesthetically pleasing but to withstand long shifts at the club and be comfortable for the dancer too!
If you’re new to pole or maybe unfamiliar with the history of it all, check out our blog here! 🥰
Heels come in a range of styles, colours and heel heights. If you don’t know where to begin, have a play with some at your studio or ask your friendly heels instructor for advice! We recommend Shoe Me for all of your shoe shopping needs 😍
