Pole dancing is a form of dance and exercise requiring significant strength, flexibility, and coordination.
One of the challenges that pole dancers face is the potential for friction burns, which can be painful and limit their ability to perform.
This post will discuss “How do pole dancers not get burned” while performing their routines. These tricks will be helpful if you plan to take up this activity.
Let’s scroll down and explore!
What Is Pole Burn?
Pole burn is a term used to describe the friction or rubbing sensation you may experience on your skin while performing certain pole dance moves.
It can be described as a burning, scraping, or tearing sensation on the skin when the body comes into contact with the pole.
Pole burn is familiar in this activity, especially when learning new tips or moves.
Factors cause this injury, including the type of fabric you’re wearing, the grip on the pole, the room’s humidity level, or the movement’s speed and intensity.
While pole burn can be uncomfortable and painful, it is generally not a severe injury.
However, it can lead to minor skin abrasions or blisters, but you can handle them with proper treatments.
How Do Pole Dancers Not Get Burned?
While most pole dancers get burned while practicing, they often apply these tips to avoid this injury, including:
- Use the right clothing
- Learn proper technique
- Use grip aids
- Consider the pole material
- Maintain the pole
- Prepare the body
- Practice with caution
Let’s keep reading to learn these tricks in detail!
Use The Right Clothing
The simplest way that pole dancers prevent burns is by carefully selecting their clothing.
Pole dancing requires a lot of skin-to-pole contacts, so dancers typically wear minimal clothing to maximize their grip.
However, they also need to protect their skin from friction burns. Hence, many pole dancers wear high-quality shorts and sports bras that are comfortable and protective.
Furthermore, some dancers wear leg warmers or knee pads to protect their skin during certain moves.
Read more: Knee Pads For Pole Dancing
Learn Proper Technique
It is essential to learn proper techniques to ensure that pole dancers do not suffer from burns.
One way to develop this technique is by practicing gripping the pole correctly, which will help you maintain control of your movements.
Pole dancers are trained to distribute their weight evenly on the pole and to avoid staying in one position for too long.
They move gracefully and keep their skin in contact with the pole at all times, lowering the chances of friction and burns.
Thus, it would be best to move smoothly and fluidly to reduce the amount of friction between your skin and the pole, which can prevent burns from occurring.
Another critical aspect of pole dancing is learning to land safely after jumps and drops.
This skill can help prevent injuries, allowing you to control your descent and avoid sudden jarring movements. Hence, practice these moves regularly to develop this skill.
Use Grip Aids
The use of grip aids is an indispensable part of pole dancing, as they help ensure a firm grip on the pole, prevent slipping, and reduce the chance of burns.
There are several types of grip aids available, such as liquid chalk, rosin, and grip gloves.
Liquid chalk, one of the most popular options, is a quick-drying substance with a firm grip on the pole.
The manufacturers use magnesium carbonate and alcohol to create a solution applied to the hands or other body parts.
Rosin, another common choice, is made by melting tree resin and then applying it to the skin to create a sticky surface.
It is known for improving traction and grip and is often used with liquid chalk for an even firmer hold.
Grip gloves, made of neoprene or silicone, provide a secure grip while protecting against burns.
They come in various styles and sizes and are a popular option for those who prefer not to use liquid chalk or rosin.
It is worth noting that while grip aids are essential for pole dancing, it is vital to use them correctly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.
Read more: What Can I Use Instead Of Pole Grip?
Consider The Pole Material
One of the primary factors contributing to pole dancing burns is the pole’s material.
The most common materials used for poles are brass, stainless steel, and chrome.
Each material has its own properties that can affect the friction and heat generated during a performance.
Stainless steel poles are the most popular choice because they generate less friction and heat than brass or chrome poles.
Additionally, many pole dancers use grip aids, such as grip gloves or grip-enhancing powders, to further reduce the risk of burns.
Read more: Chrome Vs Stainless Steel Pole?
Maintain The Pole
Pole maintenance is also essential in preventing burns. Pole dancers use a lot of grip aids, which can leave a residue on the pole. It can cause friction and increase the risk of burns.
Therefore, pole dancers clean their poles regularly with a pole cleaner to remove any residue.
They also use a grip aid only when needed. Hence, it will reduce the build-up of residue on the pole.
Prepare The Body
Before starting a pole dance routine, professional pole dancers spend much time preparing their bodies.
They use various exercises focusing on building strength and improving flexibility to ensure their bodies are ready for practice.
Pole dancers can perform challenging moves more efficiently by strengthening their upper and lower body power.
Practice With Caution
Finally, practicing with caution and listening to your body to prevent pole burn is crucial.
Most importantly, take a break and let your body rest to return stronger and healthier for your next practice.
Moreover, not pushing yourself too hard or fast in your practice is essential. Gradual progress is more effective in the long run.
Before starting any practice, it is essential to do a proper warm-up routine. It can include dynamic stretching, cardio, or even light weights.
FAQs
Do Pole Dancers Get Burns?
The answer is yes. Pole dancers can get burns from the pole. The friction between the skin and the metal pole can cause burns.
These dancers use their skin to grip the pole, and the heat generated from the friction can cause burns on the skin.
How Long Does It Take For A Pole To Stop Hurting?
The answer depends on several factors, as shown below:
- The type of pain you are experiencing
- Your fitness level
- Your body’s ability to recover
Does Pole Dancing Burn A Lot Of Calories?
Yes! This activity is a full-body workout, meaning it requires strength and endurance. Thus, it’s a great way to burn calories.
According to research, an hour of pole dancing can burn up to 400-500 calories, equivalent to an hour of jogging.
This activity involves climbing, spinning, and holding poses on the pole, which requires a lot of upper body strength, and this alone can help burn a lot of calories.
What Helps With Friction Burn?
Some ways to deal with friction burn while pole dancing are:
- Apply grip aids
- Wear protective clothing
- Take care of your skin
Does Pole Dancing Give You Blisters?
Yes! Pole dancing can give you blisters, but with the proper precautions, you can prevent them from occurring.
Does Pole Dancing Hurt Skin?
The bad news is yes! This activity can hurt your skin if you’re not careful. However, with proper techniques, clothing, and hydration, you can reduce the risk of injury.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, pole dancing is a beautiful and rewarding sport that requires dedication, practice, and care.
You should use the right gear, learn proper technique, use grip aids, prepare your body, practice with caution, consider the pole material, and maintain it to avoid getting burned.
These tips can help you prevent burns and bruises and enjoy your practice without discomfort.
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