Is it true? Is Pole Dancing really the next major Olympic Sport?
Upon hearing that pole dancing may be the next big Olympic sport, many people are surprised, to say the least. Pole dancing has made some remarkable strides over the past several years in the fitness arena. It is hardly arguable anymore that the pole produces some seriously solid results when it comes to core and upper body strength, flexibility and unmatched confidence. So, do the results justify pole dancing as a qualified candidate for Olympic competition?
It may be difficult for some to wrap their heads around the idea of an "athlete" on a pole. Visions of scantily-clad ladies writhing around brass structures and bathing in dollar bills are much more common. Although pole dancing has roots in fitness and dance that go back over a hundred years, it became popularized in gentleman’s clubs during the 1980’s. The seedy stigmas of exotic pole dancing seem to prevail over the 1920’s circus artists or the ancient Indian pole-sport of Mallakhamb. With all the things pole dancing has to overcome, the Olympic arena seems like quite a lofty goal. So, really, is it true? Will pole dancing succeed in taking it to the top? Here are a few topics for consideration.
The difference between pole dancing, pole fitness and pole sports
Pole dancing refers to a more artistic approach, which is often heavily laden with exotic style movement. Pole fitness is the exercise form focusing on strength-building and aerobic conditioning. The "sport" of pole is a combination of acrobatic and aerial dance moves with a focus on technique and execution. It is the competitive form of pole, requiring true athletic ability. Pole sports are what would be considered for inclusion in the Olympics.
The "language" of pole
In order to be a candidate for acceptance in the Olympic or World Games, a sport must have an agreed-upon language. Although this has been a huge challenge for the global pole community, there have been major efforts made in this area. The first official terminology list, complete with levels associated with each move, was released in May 2010 at the 1st International Pole Dance Fitness Convention in Washington D.C. Industry professionals from all over the world continue to work to perfect this universal language.
World Pole Government
Setting up policies, standards and universal leadership is important to legitimize any sport, as well as being a requirement for Olympic acceptance. Pole dancing currently has several national and international agencies set up to govern different aspects of the industry. The International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF) is the group overseeing the Olympic effort. The Pole Fitness Association (PFA) is responsible for much of the work being done to universalize terminology, levels and judging criteria for current competitions and training. Agencies like the United States Pole Dance Federation (USPDF), International Pole Dance Fitness Association (IPDFA) and World Pole Dance (WPD) are important in creating certification and accreditation programs, holding competitions and helping maintain a high standard for professionals.
The timeline to the Olympic Games
As you can imagine, there are very specific criteria for any sport wishing to gain acceptance at the highest level of competition. Aside from having governance, universal terms, levels and criteria for judging, potential sports must "petition" for inclusion. This process usually takes seven to 12 years. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) allows only 3 "test sports" to make their appearance at each games. Sports must first gain "recognition" by the IOC before a chance to be formally contested in the Olympics. According to the current timeline, the IPSF plans to introduce pole sports for IOC recognition at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, hoping for a chance to shine in 2020.
In answer to whether or not pole dancing is truly the next major Olympic sport, it is still somewhat unknown. However, it is well on the way. Pole dancing has gained phenomenal growth in the world, allowing for the creation of necessary world governance, as well as a universal language, levels and judging criteria. Programs for certification and accreditation are becoming more standardized, and seen as more of a necessity in the industry. Opportunities for both men and women to compete are currently available at national and international levels. As pole fitness continues to entice thousands of new students annually, stereotypes of the past are slowly being replaced with healthy new images. It is definitely true that pole dancing is right on track to reach its Olympic goals. Stay tuned for the day those visions of scantily-clad ladies writhing around brass structures are replaced with strong, skilled women and men performing acrobatic combinations in perfectly-executed fashion -- true athletes on a pole.
Chastitie Lujan - Chastitie Lujan- Sharing her artistic passion for health, wellness and high quality living through her love of writing!
