Dubai: Pole fitness is a relatively new trend in Dubai and comes with many surprises. For starters, even men are taking to it, twisting and turning on a pole — a sight more associated with women dancing in gentlemen’s clubs in the West.
However, the “aerial arts” are a fun way to good health, students and instructors said, adding that awareness about the fitness trend has matured here, shedding the “stigma” associated with the pole.
Consequently, there are now a handful of pole clubs in Dubai. Gulf News recently caught up with instructors and students at Pole Fit Dubai to explore what it takes to master the regime.
“There’s no equipment or fitness background required. Just bring a great winning attitude,” said Michelle Qubrosi, co-founder and lead instructor, Pole Fit Dubai.
Women — and men — of “all ages and sizes” are trying their hands (and legs) at wrapping themselves around a pole, or silks suspended from the ceiling, as they transition from one gravity-defying move to another, Qubrosi added.
Vlada Zhizhchenko, also co-founder and lead instructor, said the student profile is as diverse as the techniques involved.
“Most people come to have fun, find friends and get fit. Some have even gone on to circus schools in the UK, US and Australia. We also organise events twice a year showcasing the wonderful talent of our people,” Zhizhchenko added.
She said absolute beginners are welcome, being “taught everything in class. As you learn more, everything becomes possible”.
The pros added that pole fitness builds strength, agility, balance and flexibility, describing the process as “primarily fun, with fitness as a side effect of that”.
Students learn climbs, wraps; engaging in moves such as foot lock, hip lock, drops, butterfly, flamingo and Arabesque forms and shapes.
Think of it as circus, gymnastics, exercise and dance all rolled into one, quite literally.
“When you can do this — which nobody else you know can do — it’s beautiful. It requires strength, a woman’s beauty, and calls for everything an athlete needs,” student Mina Ghasemi said.
“It gives you everything you want from a gym and you get fitter by the day. I enjoy it and you feel proud of yourself and what you can do.”
Another student, Eliza Sands, added that the club, especially the silks, has “become a big part of my life. At first, it’s very scary, but rewarding at the same time”. She added that “dancing on the silks and being in this community in particular has given me the encouragement to have that focus”.
There is a wide range of classes and prices on offer, with single classes in the range of Dh75-Dh100, and discounted rates on monthly packages, which go for Dh700-Dh1,100. More information is available on www.polefitdubai.com
