Vertical Empowerment: Breaking Stereotypes
The captivating world of pole dance: breaking the traditional stereotypes to become an empowering art form for all.
Updated 02:40 pm EDT, August 28, 2024
Published 01:45 pm EDT, August 26, 2024
Photo Courtesy: Katia Romanyuk
Photography: Anna Malíková, Vera Dubovitskaya
Today, we dive into the most exciting and unique passions! Today’s hot topic is pole dancing. Now, if you think it’s just about dancing around a pole, you’re for a surprise!
Did you know that pole dance’s roots go back to ancient India with the practice of Mallakhamb? Imagine acrobats performing tricks on a vertical pole thousands of years ago! Pole dance has evolved from circus tents and burlesque shows to modern studios and competitions where athletes showcase their incredible skills.
Celebrities like Felix Cane have revolutionized the perception of pole dance, proving it’s a true art form. And here’s the kicker: men are also joining the movement, breaking stereotypes and showing that pole dancing is for everyone. Ready to explore this fascinating world? Stick around!
We speak to Katia Romanyuk, a professional pole dancer who empowers women while breaking stereotypes.
Ekaterina Romanyuk, or Katia for the close ones, is a powerhouse on the pole, a trailblazer in her field, and a woman who’s reshaped perceptions of dance and fitness. She is a professional pole dance instructor who has been making waves in the industry for over 15 years.
Katia, tell us a little about yourself. How did you first get into pole dancing, and what led you to this art form?
My name’s Katia. I’m 42, and I’m originally from Minsk. I’m married with two kids, and I’ve been living in Prague for 16 years now. I started dancing seriously at what some might call a “late” age in the dance world—when I was 24. Growing up, I always wanted to dance and was constantly taking different dance classes. But then law school came along and completely took over my life.
One day, a friend suggested we try pole dancing together. It was brand new in our city, and I thought, “Why not? Sounds intriguing.” I mean, come on, it sounded like a wild mix of fitness and fun! To be honest, my first thought was, “Is this like stripping?” But I’m always open to trying new things, so I gave it a shot.
And from that very first class, I was hooked. Spoiler: no one’s taking their clothes off in those classes!
I got really into it, spending hours in the studio. It felt like I’d found something that gave me a whole new lease on life. Back then, there wasn’t a clear structure for what we were doing. We were figuring it out as we went along, working on flexibility, movement, and learning from YouTube videos. Before long, they asked me to step in as a substitute instructor. That’s how my teaching journey began.
Two years later, I moved to Prague, and when I couldn’t find a place to continue pole dancing, I decided to create my own. I gathered a group of girls, rented a studio, bought some poles, and opened a small studio. Fun fact: I was one of the first people to start a pole dance studio in Prague. Now, there are dozens!
Is pole dancing now your main profession? How did you find your true calling in this field?
Yes, teaching pole dance is my full-time job now, and I’ve been doing it for over 15 years. I feel like I’ve truly found my place. I love connecting with people and meeting new faces, and I have the patience to teach. Plus, I’m absolutely in love with dancing and staying in tune with my body.
Pole dance, to me, is so much more than just fitness—it’s an art form. The beauty of the lines and the grace in the movement it often remind me of those little spinning ballerinas in jewelry boxes from way back when. And, of course, the physical benefits are undeniable. Maybe there’s some genetics at play here, but I’m convinced that regular dancing keeps you young. People are often shocked when I tell them my age—they always assume I’m younger!
Pole dance has evolved a lot over the years. How would you describe its journey and current significance?
Pole dance has come a long way, evolving from its origins in strip clubs to being recognized as a legitimate sport and a form of artistic expression.
Historically, pole dance was heavily associated with stripping, where the pole was used primarily for acrobatics and seductive moves. This led to it being seen mostly as part of the adult entertainment industry—a perception that still lingers for some people today.
In the late 90s and early 2000s, pole dance started gaining traction as a form of fitness. It became popular as a way to build strength and flexibility.
Over time, it grew into a respected sport with a focus on technique, challenging tricks, and acrobatics. This shift helped break away from the stereotypes and reposition pole dance as a sport and an art form. Now, we even have competitions all over the world.
Today, pole dance has split into several distinct styles:
- Sport Pole Dance: Focused on tricks, acrobatics, and athletic performance.
- Exotic Pole Dance: This is more dance-oriented, emphasizing sensuality, high heels, and fluid movements. It’s my absolute favorite and what I’ve been concentrating on for the past few years.
- Pole Art: This style focuses on choreography and artistic expression.
These days, there’s even talk of pole dance becoming an Olympic sport! There are international organizations with strict regulations, and the level of competition is serious.
When did you realize you had truly found your niche within pole dance? What's your proudest achievement?
Before I discovered pole dance, I dabbled in strip plastic—a mix of contemporary, jazz, modern, and classical dance, but without the pole. When pole dance started evolving and developing its own substyles, I immediately knew that Exotic Pole Dance was my thing. It combines the fluidity and vocabulary of strip plastic with the strength elements of traditional pole dance.
What draws me in is the fluidity, the large movements, the grace, and the opportunity to explore my own sensuality—tastefully, artistically, and with a subtle, refined touch. And, of course, those killer high heels! There’s something mesmerizing about long, flying legs in beautiful shoes.
In Exotic Pole Dance, I’ve found my true self. It resonates with my personal style and how I perceive dance.
How do you respond to people who still see pole dance as superficial? How do you break down those stereotypes?
A lot of people still associate pole dancing with stripping and see it as something shallow. I think it’s the pole itself that triggers those stereotypes. I often hear, “What do you do? Just spin around and shake your butt?” My response is always, “Come and try it yourself.” That’s when they realize it’s far from easy.
Even dancers in strip clubs undergo rigorous training. Performing tricks on a pole requires excellent physical conditioning, flexibility, and strength. And if we’re talking about pole dance as a sport or art form, like pole sport or Exotic Pole Dance, it’s an entirely different level of difficulty.
When people attend their first class, 99% of them are shocked. They always say, “This is way harder than I thought.” And they’re right—pole dance is a serious athletic discipline that demands strength, endurance, flexibility, and control.
Honestly, I used to get upset when people labeled us as strippers, but now I’ve grown used to it. I no longer take it to heart. If someone doesn’t want to understand what pole dance truly is, that’s their choice. But if they’re genuinely curious, I’m more than happy to explain and show them the amazing world of pole dance—how it’s evolved, the different styles, and the high standards that exist today.
Pole dance is becoming more popular and recognized. Do you think it should be included in the Olympics, or should it maintain its unique identity?
I’m all for pole dance being included in the Olympics, specifically pole sport. It’s a demanding discipline that requires top-notch physical fitness, coordination, endurance, and flexibility—all the qualities you’d expect from an Olympic athlete.
The main obstacle, I think, is the lingering association with its roots in strip clubs. But really, the only difference between a gymnast on horizontal bars and a pole dancer on a vertical pole is the orientation of the apparatus. The physical skills and technical prowess are comparable to other Olympic sports.
That said, Exotic Pole Dance, which is my current focus, is more dance-oriented and emphasizes artistic expression over athletic achievement. It’s less about competing on physical prowess and more about creating a visually and emotionally captivating performance. So, while I fully support pole sport going to the Olympics, I believe Exotic Pole Dance should stay in the realm of dance competitions and festivals where its artistic side can be truly appreciated.
Women who practice pole dance seem incredibly strong and confident. What do you think unites you all on a deeper level?
Women in pole dance truly embody both physical and mental strength. It’s not just about looking strong—we are strong. Pole dance, and even more so, Exotic Pole Dance, involves challenging acrobatic elements, tricks, and holds that push your body to the limit.
But it’s not just a physical challenge; it’s mental too. Things don’t always come easily, and it takes persistence, discipline, and patience to improve. But the progress is worth it. Even if something doesn’t work today, with time, you’ll get there. I often encourage my students to record their sessions so they can see how far they’ve come. It’s a great motivator.
A lot of people think women do pole dance to attract men. That’s a huge misconception. It’s really about empowering ourselves, boosting our self-esteem, and doing something that brings us joy. It’s a way to connect with your body, almost like a form of meditation.
Dancing, whether it’s pole dance or any other style, helps you take a break from daily stresses. You focus on your movements, on where to place your hand or foot, or on staying in rhythm with the music. It’s a moment of escape where you’re fully immersed in the experience.
Dance is also a powerful tool for self-expression. It allows you to work through emotions, internal blocks, and even past traumas. Sometimes, students come in with a specific song in mind, and I can tell it’s helping them process a part of their life. Dance becomes a form of emotional projection, allowing them to express relationships, experiences, or memories.
In short, dancing is a great stress reliever and emotional outlet. It helps you process not just pain and fear but also love and other deep emotions. It’s a therapeutic process that brings balance to your inner world.
Let's dive into the next part of our conversation. You mentioned how Pole Dance attracts a certain type of person. What do you think connects all the women who take up Pole Dance or Exotic Pole Dance?
Honestly, I think it’s our unique mix of boldness and resilience, combined with an ability to handle the physical demands and even the pain that comes with the art. Pole Dance isn’t a walk in the park—it’s tough. We’re talking calloused hands, bruises, muscle strains, and sometimes injuries. We sort of embrace these challenges, and, believe it or not, we often joke that we enjoy “torturing” ourselves. It’s a joke, of course, but there’s some truth to it.
We are strong, independent women who aren’t afraid to shatter stereotypes or dismiss what others might think. The Pole Dance community is full of incredible people. I’ve never met a negative or uptight person in this space. Everyone is open-hearted, supportive, and kind.
The dance itself embodies a blend of softness and strength, of fluidity and intensity. We can be on sky-high heels, executing sharp, powerful moves one second and seamlessly transitioning to something more graceful the next. This contrast reflects our inner duality—we’re both fierce and delicate at the same time. Although Pole Dance is often seen as something ultra-feminine, it also demands tremendous strength, flexibility, and sometimes even a bit of aggression.
When people watch us dance, they might see something that looks both intense and sensual. But that complexity is what makes it so enjoyable for us. There’s a running joke in our community that our classes probably have more testosterone than typical women’s workouts.
If you could go back in time, what age would you start training in Pole Dance? Is there an ideal time to begin?
If I had a time machine, I would definitely start training for Pole Sports at a much younger age. Nowadays, in many places, you can find classes for kids as young as six. My oldest daughter actually tried it out for a while, though it wasn’t quite her thing. However, both of my girls are into aerial acrobatics at our studio—they’re really into aerial hoops. The earlier you start, the more you can achieve. That’s just how it is. There are already so many young prodigies who started young and are now winning competitions.
When it comes to Exotic Pole Dance, though, that’s a different story. I see it as an “18+” kind of dance. It’s about heels, attitude, and a certain sense of self-awareness and sensuality. You need to be in touch with your own sexuality to truly embody that style.
But let’s be clear—you can start Pole Dance at any age. There are people who begin in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and even 60s, and it’s never too late. Take Greta Pontarelli, for example. She’s a 72-year-old Italian who began Pole at 59 and has gone on to become a 13-time World Champion in the Masters category. So, really, there’s no wrong time to start.
You have witnessed pole dancing transform from something relatively unknown into a global phenomenon. What key moments or events were instrumental in this transformation?
Pole dance has evolved from a niche form of dance into a popular sport and art form. Here are some key stages in its transformation:
- Ancient Roots: Historically, elements of pole dance can be traced back to traditional Indian dances like Mallakhamb, where vertical poles are used.
- 1970s: Pole dance began to take its modern form in North America, primarily within strip clubs where the pole was used for acrobatic performances.
- 1990s: With the rise of fitness culture and new trends, pole dance started to be seen not just as part of striptease but also as a form of physical activity. During this time, the first fitness studios offering pole dance as a workout appeared.
- 2000s: Pole dance gained more attention as both a sport and an art form. International competitions like Miss Pole Dance and the founding of the International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF) helped elevate its status. This period also saw the sport’s rise in popularity due to its integration into the fitness industry and its visibility on social media.
- 2010s: Pole dance continued to grow in popularity, becoming part of mainstream fitness and sports trends. In 2013, the International Olympic Committee recognized pole dance as a sport, further boosting its development.
- Present Day: Today, pole dance is featured in international competitions like the Pole Sport World Championship and the Pole Dance World Federation. It is also widely practiced in fitness studios around the world, and it is admired for its artistic expression and physical challenges, attracting people of all ages and fitness levels.
People often wonder if pole dancing is suitable for all body types. How would you respond to those who doubt their physical capabilities?
It’s common to hear excuses like, “I’ll lose weight first, and then I’ll start.” My response is always that there’s no need to wait. Pole dance itself can help you lose weight and tone your body. You can start and work on your physical form simultaneously.
Another common concern is the lack of arm strength. Many fear they won’t be able to perform the moves due to weak arms. But I always say that as you start practicing, your arms will gradually get stronger. There’s no need to prepare specifically before beginning pole dance.
Of course, physical preparation can accelerate progress. For instance, if you already have experience in the gym or other sports, it can help. However, even well-trained individuals can face challenges like sweaty palms, which can make it difficult to grip the pole. For such cases, there are solutions like special gloves and chalk, which help with grip and make training easier.
In short, anyone, regardless of age or physical fitness, can start pole dancing. The most important things are the desire and willingness to work on yourself. We welcome people of all body types, ages, and genders. Naturally, there are medical contraindications, and I always ask new students about any health issues, such as back problems or other conditions. This is crucial to ensure that the training is beneficial and enjoyable rather than harmful.
What is it like to be a woman in a sport that is so often associated with femininity yet requires incredible strength? Are there differences in how men and women approach pole dance?
Both women and men participate in pole dance, and each brings unique strengths. Men often excel in moves requiring power and endurance, while women tend to shine in flexibility and stretching. However, both genders can perform all elements and achieve high results in pole dance.
In exotic pole dance, there are also male dancers, though they are fewer compared to women. Notable male performers include Ilya Med, known for his fluidity and skill in dancing in high heels, often referred to as “stripper heels.” In pole sports, athletes like Dmitry Politov stand out for their exceptional achievements and active representation of pole dance on the international stage. These examples highlight that both pole dance and exotic pole dance are open to all genders and offer numerous opportunities for self-expression and high-level performance.
What format, from club shows to major competitions, excites you the most and why?
I’ve only competed in exotic pole dance once, and that was before the pandemic. At the time, I was in great shape after having my second child, and I was able to get back into training and prepare for the competition. Although I didn’t place, I made it to the finals and performed on stage, which was an unforgettable experience for me.
However, I realized that performing on stage isn’t really my thing. I feel more comfortable in the role of a coach rather than a performer. The feedback I receive from my students confirms that I’m good at it. When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, and I love teaching, finding an approach to each person, and understanding what they need at any given moment. I particularly enjoy one-on-one sessions that allow for a deeper connection with the student, as well as group classes that bring a unique energy and atmosphere.
As for performing, I’ve also taken part in club events, dancing exotic pole at various shows. I enjoy this format too, though the pressure of judges during competitions can be a bit stressful for me. Nonetheless, I love attending competitions, supporting my colleagues and students, and enjoying the spectacle.
I highly recommend that anyone who hasn’t yet been to a pole sport or exotic pole dance competition attend one. It’s truly thrilling—beautiful costumes, well-rehearsed routines, and acrobatic elements that can rival a Cirque du Soleil show. I’ve noticed that many acrobatic moves performed in our community are on par with what’s shown in professional circuses. This speaks to the high level of professionalism of our dancers and athletes, even though the general public may not fully appreciate it yet.
In your opinion, what is the pinnacle of a pole dancer's career? What are your personal goals and dreams?
Many people see winning championships as the pinnacle of a pole dancer’s career. For others, it’s opening their own studio. While these are undoubtedly significant achievements for many, my priorities have shifted. I once had my own studio, but after having children, I had to sell it. Now, I still teach there, but my main focus is on dancing and maintaining my health.
At this point, I don’t have any ambitious goals. My main desire is to continue dancing and practicing for as long as possible. I value the ability to practice at 42 and am grateful that my body doesn’t let me down, allowing me to keep training. I try to listen to my body, avoid overloading myself, and maintain harmony.
For me, dance has become as natural as breathing. I just want to enjoy the process, be present, dance, teach, and cherish every moment.
What risks and injuries might those who practice it face? How do you manage these challenges?
Like any form of physical activity, pole dance, and exotic pole dance come with certain risks and potential injuries. These can include sprains and ligament tears, ligament inflammation, dislocations, knee and ankle injuries, herniated discs, calluses, and scars on the skin, as well as stress and psychological tension, especially for competitors. In exotic pole dance, special attention should be paid to injuries when working in heels, such as ankle bruises and dislocations, as well as improper load distribution on the knees and hips.
To minimize risks, it’s important to follow proper techniques, perform warm-ups and stretches before and after training, choose appropriate gear such as specialized shoes with rounded toes, gloves, and liquid chalk to prevent slipping, listen to your body, and work with certified and experienced coaches for proper technique and safety guidance.
How has pole dancing changed you as a person? What personal traits or skills have you developed through this sport?
Practicing pole dance has profoundly changed my life. As a child, I was clumsy and prone to injuries, and I never thought I could become a person with agility. However, thanks to pole dancing, I discovered flexibility and strength within myself that seemed unattainable before. My flexibility has significantly improved, and I’ve become much stronger, even though no one in my family was into sports. My mom is still amazed at how I became so athletic, and my children, watching me, are motivated to engage in sports and acrobatics themselves.
I love movement and walking, and if I’m not exercising, I feel uncomfortable. Dance and sports help me feel much younger than my age. At 42, I feel great, energized, and full of life. Even if I’m not in the best mood before training, I always leave the session feeling absolutely happy. Pole dance has changed my perception of my body: I’ve become more confident, strong, and aware of my sexuality. My posture has improved, and I always try to stand tall. Constantly being in front of the mirror helps me monitor and maintain my figure.
The psychological aspect of dance and sports, especially dance, is crucial. They allow you to connect with your body and better understand your emotions. I always know that I have a tool to process my feelings, and this gives me a sense of harmony. Dance and sports help maintain emotional stability, which is especially important for women who often experience hormonal changes. Regular training supports good mental health and helps manage emotional turmoil.
Dance and sports cultivate discipline and perseverance. They teach that if something doesn’t work out on the first try, you shouldn’t give up. You need to keep working, and eventually, success will come. This builds resilience and patience, as well as an understanding that results require time and consistent effort.
What drives me to keep going every day is the joy and satisfaction I feel after training. The endorphins and dopamine released during physical activity create an incredible sense of happiness and peace. Also, the community around me, my colleagues, and my students are amazing people whose support and energy inspire me. Movement has become an integral part of my existence.
How do you see the future of pole dance? What role do you hope to play in its development?
I see the future of pole dance as an Olympic sport, which would be a significant step in recognizing it as a legitimate form of athletic competition. In the coming years, we are likely to witness the continued growth of pole dance worldwide and the disappearance of lingering prejudices surrounding it.
Studios will likely appear in every city, making pole dancing more accessible to a broader audience. We can also expect new techniques and styles to emerge, further evolving the sport. Education will become more diverse, incorporating new methods and approaches, fostering growth and evolution in pole dance.
What advice would you give to young women who want to follow in your footsteps and start their journey in pole dancing?
My main advice to young women who want to start pole dancing is not to give up or get discouraged if things don’t come easily at first. The key is persistence and discipline, and the results will come.
Be consistent and determined, and you will see progress, just as my colleagues, students, and I have. But remember, it’s important to enjoy what you do. Life should be fun, but discipline also plays a crucial role.
Pole dance and exotic pole dance have helped me find balance in life. These dances require a combination of strength and grace, physical power and coordination, flexibility and poise, sensuality and restraint. By finding this balance in dance, I’ve learned to balance other aspects of my life as well.
Dedicated entrepreneur from Ukraine. Experienced tutor and successful business owner emphasizing up-to-date methods, the importance of high-quality and targeted content. Motivated professional bringing a 12-year career in small business ownership, business development, and education, who quickly masters new concepts and technologies. A happy mother.
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