POLE EXERCISE is an aerobics fitness club which is designed to help members stay toned, gain flexibility and strength, all whilst doing something fun and exciting.
This year, I tried my hand at the pole society here on campus, and as it is one of the country’s first university clubs of its kind, I felt confident in giving it a try.
Many new members may be shy at first, but after just one session, everyone is comfortable and enjoying something refreshingly different. One of the first things I hear people say when I tell them I do a pole exercise class, is that they think this is a ‘girl only’ sport, but there are in fact a high percentage of guys attending, with this year being one of the highest the society has seen.
To be honest, I did initially think I would be the only guy there, but I was very pleased to find that there were more than I expected, which made me feel more comfortable. “I’ve enjoyed Pole since joining this year”, says fellow club member Ruth Bury who is currently in her second year. “It’s amazing how much you learn in such a short period of time. Everyone make you feel welcome and you feel comfortable around other members. The fitness is challenging and learning the pole technique is a lot of fun.”
Many members enjoy Pole Exercise as a way to keep busy and stay in shape as a secondary sport. Myself and a few others are in several sport clubs throughout the week and find Pole to be an amazing way to keep your body tone during those days off. The classes are divided into a fitness session and a technique session. The technique session is when member learn how to do spins and sitting positions.
As the weeks progress, new moves and pole positions are taught. No one is expected to advance quickly, as the instructors are very understanding of new members’ shyness when it comes to trying something new. New members will quickly find that their core strength and balance are improving each session.
Ruth says, “At my first session I was worried that everyone would be really graceful and know what they were doing, and that I would stand out, but many other people there were beginners and I soon grew to realise that there is no pressure to try harder moves than you are ready for. If you have been going for several weeks and still wish to practice basic spins then no one will judge you for it.”
There are also multiple opportunities to go on nights out, all of which are themed and give members a chance to show off their fancy dress. The society also goes on joint nights out with other sports clubs throughout the term. It has been a great way to meet more people at uni, allowing me, and all its members, to experience something different all whilst making new friends.
I wanted to try something I never thought I’d get another chance to find, and I’ve been very happy since deciding to join Pole Exercise. By the end of the first session, I couldn’t wait to try it again the next week. Pole exercise might be one of the least known sports on campus, but a lot is going on in this sports club.
Having recently performed at the Chinese New Year gala, this society is creating many ways for members to experience an exotic sport which offers a physical challenge and in a unique way.
In doing so, Pole Exercise is making its mark on campus. If you are open to trying a new sport, don’t miss the opportunity to try out one of the best-kept secrets on campus before its popularity really hits the big-time.
Pole Exercise will also be competing against Lancaster Universiy in Roses for the first time this year. The club is sending a team of eleven contestants to Lancaster.
York Sport President Cass Brown told Vision: “It’s great to have yet another society competing at Roses. Pole excercise will be a great fixture to watch.”