Should Men Take Up Pole Dancing?

By Rachid at Kiiroo

20 September 2018

A POLE DANCE INSTRUCTOR WEIGHS IN

When you think about pole dancing, you probably picture an erotic scene. Where a beautiful, seductive temptress is working her magic on a pole. R&B music playing in the background, smoke everywhere... that kind of jazz.

But is pole dancing solely for women?

Or can men try it as well?

Celebrity pole dance instructor Salem says: Yes; pole dancing is for everyone. Including men.

Do you feel like pole dancing is strictly for women? Or is it ok for men to pole dance as well?

Opinionwise, I sincerely believe that whether you’re male, female, young or old: it is for everyone! The other day we were shooting a podcast for Kiiroo, where I talked about pole dancing with two guys and there was nothing weird about it.

So Salem, what can you tell us about your experience with men who pole dance?

Well, the sport does attract more women than it does men. That’s mainly because men tend to have a certain image of it. But yes, there are definitely men who do it. I’ve taught a number of guys in my classes. And there are even men joining national and international competitions. So pole dancing for men is definitely a real thing.

Is it very different teaching men as opposed to women?

Although most of my students are women, I have taught a number of men as well. I usually teach groups but sometimes I give private lessons. One time, for a full year, I gave private lessons to a guy who was 23 years old. He started as a beginner, zero experience! I mainly taught him a lot of power tricks and how to build up strength.

When I’m teaching a group of eight students and one of them is a man, there is no difference. They all learn the same techniques, whether they are a man or a woman. No special treatment, all genders are treated as equals.

You mentioned before that there is a certain image around pole dancing. What would you say are the most common misconceptions? Specifically about men who pole dance?

Of course, people tend to associate it with strip clubs. People often think that when you pole dance, it involves taking your clothes off, while that does not have to be the case at all.

Another misconception people have is that it’s something very feminine and sensual, therefore less suitable for men. But like I said, pole dancing isn’t necessarily sensual. There are many different styles. Of course, there is also the erotic style and it’s also perfectly ok for men to try that out. It’s all a matter of what you’re comfortable with.

Do you think the erotic form of pole dancing is less suitable for men?

I think a lot of men don’t feel comfortable in that particular area. But then again, it’s all very personal and it’s very much a matter of how comfortable you are with your masculinity.

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What kind of men, would you say, are less suited for pole dancing?

The only reason why someone would not be suited for pole dancing is if they have physical problems. If, for example, you have weak wrists or shoulder problems, that would make certain moves difficult. But other than that, I don’t see any reason not to try it out.

We’ve all heard of women taking a pole dancing class with their friends for their bachelorette party. Do you think that this could become a trend for bachelor parties as well?

Well, why not? I have indeed taught many pole dance classes for bachelorette parties. So far, these classes were always for women. Sometimes they would bring one guy along, but that’s pretty much it. I think with the way things are now, women are more likely to take a pole dance class and men are more likely to hire a pole dancer. So it might be a thing in the future, but for now, I don’t see it happening.

Do you think being good at pole dancing would help men impress the ladies?

That’s hard to say. If a man would come up to me and say he’s really good at football, I wouldn’t necessarily be impressed either. So I’m not sure if a skill like pole dancing is enough to impress your date. Maybe if there’s a pole, and you get to show off your skills right then and there...?

Could pole dancing help men to spice things up in the bedroom?

Who knows? It just might.

Do you have any advice for men who are thinking of trying out pole dancing?

First and foremost I would say: just try it without judgment. Try to get into it with an open mind and just see how it makes you feel. Some people love it, some people hate it. That’s the same for women and men alike. If it’s not for you then it’s not for you. But you might just find that it’s a lot of fun.

Would you recommend pole dancing to men?

Yes, definitely. I am always a strong advocate for trying out new things. The benefits I see for women who pole dance can also apply to men. When women pole dance, their confidence, and self-image gets a huge boost. They have a much more positive body image and self-esteem. They become stronger and more fit.

The pole dancing community is also very tight-knit and oftentimes, beautiful friendships grow from the classes. But it’s also a way to express yourself. Pole dancing allows you to release a lot of energy and creativity. Plus, it’s also a great work-out!

Well, if this doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will.

So!

Men!

What are you waiting for? Time to climb up that pole!