Club Profile: Pole Fitness
The Mancunion speaks to Stefania Chaplin, member of the University’s Pole Fitness Club
What is pole fitness?
“Pole fitness is vertical gymnastics using a pole. It’s not about gyrating in skimpy clothing – it’s actually an amazing form of exercise as it requires a lot of strength to be able to do spins, invert and climb a pole.”
Can anyone join even if they have no previous experience?
“Everyone starts off somewhere. The first lesson can be a bit daunting but within the first lesson you’ve already mastered a few basic spins and within a few months you’re doing things you never dreamed possible. It’s totally addictive – my only regret is not starting sooner.”
How does your perception of pole fitness differ to those that have never done it before?
“I see pole fitness as an amazing, fun form of exercise. A lot of people associate it with strip clubs and when I tell people I do pole fitness they immediately assume I do it occupationally. But I think of it as pole acrobatics and as a form of challenging my body to perform gravity defying moves.”
Finally, in what ways has pole fitness changed your life?
“It’s possibly the best thing that has ever happened to me! I dropped from a size 12 to a size 6 and I have so much more energy, better posture and flexibility. Plus, I’ve made lots of friends who I see outside of classes. After every single lesson I leave with a big smile on my face. I’m totally hooked and recommend it to anyone and everyone.”
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