Pole levels: are we disouraging?

Poling levels seem to be varied depending on the studio one is at. There doesn't seem to be a consistent definition of what the levels are in pole. Some studios consider most basic spins to be level 1, while others consider them level 2. I have a DVD that considers and handstand on the pole a basic move. Some studios use the terms beginning, intermediate and advance. These discrepancies can cause confusion to the students, and can be rather discouraging.

I've gotten to the point where I dislike the terms "beginner," "intermediate," and "advanced." They do not seem to be descriptive of the challenge that pole poses, and they can be discouraging to individuals who are stuck in the "beginner" or "intermediate" phase. I know I got frustrated when I had been poling for 2 years and was still considered a "beginner."



One thing we have to consider when we begin poling is that not all activities are created equal. For instance, walking is a very basic activity, and most people can do it. On the contrary, even the most basic movements in gymnastics would be considered advanced to most people who did not participate in gymnastics as a child. Pole falls into this advanced category. The strength necessary for even the most basic moves in pole, is far more than would be necessary for many normal or common fitness activities that adults participate in. It can be very discouraging for someone who is struggling with a basic spin or climb to be called a beginner, despite them having participating in pole for months. For this reason, I prefer using the terms level 1, 2, 3, etc. They give a better idea of the phases of the pole moves, without having a discouraging note to them. No matter what level one is in, the moves are still going to be difficult, since pole is an advanced sport!

In addition to the concept of levels in pole, I have a very different view on what is advanced, in the context of pole. To me, once you start inverting, you are an advanced dancer. It takes a lot of skill to invert and to hold a pose in an inverted position. Any major power-strength-based move is also advanced, in my opinion, whether upright or inverted. Any contortion based move is advanced. Any spin using only one arm, a reverse grab, or split grip is also advanced, to me. The strength that is needed for any of those types of spins is far beyond the basic skills in pole. Within this category of advanced moves, there are simply moves that are more advanced.

Basic pole moves, to me, are more along the lines of basic spins with  baseball grip, climbs, sits, simple floorwork. Basic does not mean they are not hard, because they are. They are just the foundation for the more difficult movements to come.

For your average adult, being able to do a inverted straddle or an outside leg hang are huge achievements, and the individuals' accomplishing these moves should be proud of themselves. Getting to that point is huge! It seems to me that pole has become very focused on trickster moves. Seriously, doing an inverted straddle is not something everyone can do, nor should they be. I worry about the trend that is arising of individuals feeling like they NEED to nail these super intense moves. Why? Not all moves are for everyone. Just because a professional does it, doesn't mean we should be able to do it. Yes, some individuals will be able to do these moves, and not be competitive professionals, but that shouldn't be our focus. Most of us are average Janes/Joes, and can become easily discouraged when we cannot perform these power moves like other individuals can. At this point it is appropriate to take a step back and think about why we started pole in the first place. We also need to consider our bodies and limitations. Most of us are not very flexible. It is natural for our muscles to stiffen as we age, so it is normal for us to NOT be able to do contortion based moves. That's okay! Seriously, if you can do a climb, you are way beyond what others can do and you should be PROUD!

Pole is a very intense sport, and you should be proud that you are a part of it!