Episodes
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In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa delves into what every pole dancer should know about exercising in extreme heat. Key topics include the physiological adaptations to heat acclimatization that typically occur within two weeks, the symptoms and handling of heat exhaustion versus heat stroke, and specific risk factors such as dehydration and medications. She also shares practical tips for pole dancers, such as managing equipment and grip issues, staying hydrated, and taking frequent breaks to avoid heat-related illnesses. Emphasis is placed on listening to one's body, recognizing the varied individual responses to heat, and prioritizing safety over performance.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:45 The Science of Sweating
02:54 Heat Acclimatization in Athletes
06:52 Physiological Adaptations to Heat
11:27 Recognizing and Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
18:06 Risk Factors for Heat-Related Illnesses
24:34 Pole Dancing in Hot Conditions
29:52 Final Tips and Recommendations
Citations/further reading:
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, April 6). Heat exhaustion. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250
Howe, A. S., & Boden, B. P. (2007). Heat-related illness in athletes. The American journal of sports medicine, 35(8), 1384-1395.
Nobel, G., Tribukait, A., Mekjavic, I. B., & Eiken, O. (2012). Effects of motion sickness on thermoregulatory responses in a thermoneutral air environment. European journal of applied physiology, 112, 1717-1723.
Périard, J. D., Racinais, S., & Sawka, M. N. (2015). Adaptations and mechanisms of human heat acclimation: applications for competitive athletes and sports. Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports, 25, 20-38.
Sawka, M. N., Leon, L. R., Montain, S. J., & Sonna, L. A. (2011). Integrated physiological mechanisms of exercise performance, adaptation, and maladaptation to heat stress. Compr Physiol, 1(4), 1883-1928.
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In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' hosted by Dr. Rosy Boa, the focus is on the details of dancing in pole heels, a theme for June 2025. Dr. Boa outlines essential tips for choosing the right shoes, including the benefits of platforms, the significance of a sturdy stiletto, and the importance of proper shoe fit. She delves into the mechanics of balance, the challenges posed by the additional weight of heels, and strategies to avoid foot cramps. Additionally, Dr. Boa emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the roots of pole dancing in strip clubs and supporting sex workers, highlighting her studio's monthly contributions to various support organizations. Lastly, practical advice is offered on warming up properly to prevent foot cramps and ensuring better performance while dancing in heels.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Theme Announcement
00:51 Acknowledging the Roots of Pole Dancing
01:49 The Mechanics of Dancing in Heels
06:16 Choosing the Right Pole Heels
12:47 Preventing Foot Cramps and Injuries
16:19 Addressing Bunions and Final Thoughts
Citations:
More information on the intrinsic muscles of the foot
Card, R. K., & Bordoni, B. (2023). Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
Despite popular belief there is no strong scientific evidence that shoes or high heels cause bunions.
Nix, S. E., Vicenzino, B. T., Collins, N. J., & Smith, M. D. (2012). Characteristics of foot structure and footwear associated with hallux valgus: a systematic review. Osteoarthritis and cartilage, 20(10), 1059-1074.
Not even if you dance in shoes (including pointe shoes!).
Kennedy, J. G., & Collumbier, J. A. (2008). Bunions in dancers. Clinics in sports medicine, 27(2), 321-328.
Bunions seem to be mostly genetic.
Coughlin, M. J., & Jones, C. P. (2007). Hallux valgus: demographics, etiology, and radiographic assessment. Foot & ankle international, 28(7), 759-777.
Hannan, M. T., Menz, H. B., Jordan, J. M., Cupples, L. A., Cheng, C. H., & Hsu, Y. H. (2013). High heritability of hallux valgus and lesser toe deformities in adult men and women. Arthritis care & research, 65(9), 1515-1521.
Piqué-Vidal, C., Solé, M. T., & Antich, J. (2007). Hallux valgus inheritance: pedigree research in 350 patients with bunion deformity. The Journal of foot and ankle surgery, 46(3), 149-154.
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of the Science of Slink podcast, Dr. Rosy Boa explores the question, 'What is the hardest pole dance move?' She explains that the answer depends on various factors such as individual physiology, training background, and specific adaptations. Dr. Boa discusses different challenging pole moves categorized by flexibility, strength, and athleticism, emphasizing the importance of specialized training. She also offers insights for hobbyist pole dancers on achieving impressive performances without extreme movements, and provides encouragement for those pursuing advanced techniques.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Citations:
Hawley, J. A. (2002). Adaptations of skeletal muscle to prolonged, intense endurance training. Clinical and experimental pharmacology and physiology, 29(3), 218-222.
Izquierdo, M., Häkkinen, K., Gonzalez-Badillo, J. J., Ibanez, J., & Gorostiaga, E. M. (2002). Effects of long-term training specificity on maximal strength and power of the upper and lower extremities in athletes from different sports. European journal of applied physiology, 87, 264-271.Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Science of Slink
00:19 What is the Hardest Move in Pole Dance?
01:17 Specificity of Training and Adaptation
05:33 Flexibility moves
08:26 Strength moves
10:51 Power moves
14:12 Impressive (but not necessarily difficult) moves for Performances
16:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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In this episode of the Science of Slink podcast, Dr. Rosy Boa delves into the intricacies of learning pole dance at home. With a background in pole dance since 2012 and instruction since 2018, she brings extensive experience and scientific insights to the discussion. The episode covers the effectiveness of home-based exercise supported by recent research, methods to maintain motivation, and strategies to avoid common injuries. Dr. Boa shares her 'pyramid of pole' framework to guide beginners through physical conditioning, technical learning, and artistic expression. The episode also explores how to adapt training routines to home environments, addressing space limitations, flooring types, and unique home dynamics like pets or kids. Finally, Dr. Boa highlights the importance of appropriate movement levels and offers specific recommendations for home pole dance practice, urging listeners to be patient and consistent in their training.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Citations:
McDonagh, S. T., Dalal, H., Moore, S., Clark, C. E., Dean, S. G., Jolly, K., ... & Taylor, R. S. (2023). Home‐based versus centre‐based cardiac rehabilitation. Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (10).
Schutzer, K. A., & Graves, B. S. (2004). Barriers and motivations to exercise in older adults. Preventive medicine, 39(5), 1056-1061.
Lee, J. Y., Lin, L., & Tan, A. (2019). Prevalence of pole dance injuries from a global online survey. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 60(2), 270-275.
Nicholas, J., Weir, G., Alderson, J. A., Stubbe, J. H., Van Rijn, R. M., Dimmock, J. A., ... & Donnelly, C. J. (2022). Incidence, mechanisms, and characteristics of injuries in pole dancers: a prospective cohort study. Medical problems of performing artists, 37(3), 151-164.
Dang, Y., Chen, R., Koutedakis, Y., & Wyon, M. A. (2023). The efficacy of physical fitness training on dance injury: a systematic review. International journal of sports medicine, 44(02), 108-116.
Ambegaonkar, J. P., Chong, L., & Joshi, P. (2021). Supplemental training in dance: a systematic review. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics, 32(1), 117-135.
Bohm, S., Mersmann, F., & Arampatzis, A. (2015). Human tendon adaptation in response to mechanical loading: a systematic review and meta-analysis of exercise intervention studies on healthy adults. Sports medicine-open, 1, 1-18.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Science of Slink Podcast
02:24 The Benefits of Home-Based Pole Dance Training
06:54 Building Physical Capacity for Pole Dance
08:23 Cross Training and Injury Prevention
14:09 Considerations for Home Pole Dancers
18:00 Recommendations for Beginners
21:20 The Science of Slink Membership
23:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' host Rosy is joined by Dr. Olivia Walch, CEO of Arcascope and author of 'Sleep Groove,' to discuss the importance of circadian rhythms and sleep hygiene. Olivia shares her journey from being a 'sleep gremlin' in college to becoming a researcher focused on sleep regularity. They explore how light exposure affects circadian rhythms, the role of sleep in motor learning and recovery, and practical tips for improving sleep patterns. Olivia also dispels myths about chronotypes and emphasizes the significance of maintaining a consistent light-dark schedule for overall well-being and better athletic performance.
Get Olivia’s book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Sleep-Groove/Olivia-Walch/9781524892951
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
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In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa offers an evidence-based guide to mastering spin pole. Covering crucial topics such as pole safety, spin control, body mechanics, spin directions, and managing dizziness, this episode is designed to benefit both beginners and experienced pole dancers. Dr. Boa also introduces the Science of Slink membership for those seeking comprehensive training and a supportive community. Tune in to learn essential tips and tricks to enhance your pole dance practice.
Previous episode that goes into more info on dizziness: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/how-to-do-spin-pole-without-getting-dizzy
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true -
Follow-along five minute pole warm up on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GAP_7LDgo8
In this episode of Science of Slink, Dr. Rosy Boa delves into the importance of warmups for pole dancers. She explains that warming up is crucial for reducing injury and enhancing performance. The discussion covers the types of activities to include in a warmup, such as increasing body temperature, improving circulation, and moving joints through their range of motion. Dr. Boa also highlights the importance of psychological preparation. She advises against incorporating flexibility training into warmups, recommending that such exercises be done separately. The episode is filled with insights drawn from scientific studies and practical experiences, offering a comprehensive guide to effective warmups for pole athletes.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Chapter:
00:00 Introduction to Warmups
00:33 The Purpose of Warmups
01:26 Evidence Supporting Warmups
03:18 Components of an Effective Warmup
06:13 Psychological and Neurological Preparation
10:04 Flexibility Training: What to Avoid
14:04 Conclusion and Final Tips
Citations:
Racinais S, Cocking S, Périard JD. Sports and environmental temperature: From warming-up to heating-up. Temperature (Austin). 2017 Aug 4;4(3):227-257. doi: 10.1080/23328940.2017.1356427. PMID: 28944269; PMCID: PMC5605167.
Safran, M. R., Garrett JR, W. E., Seaber, A. V., Glisson, R. R., & Ribbeck, B. M. (1988). The role of warmup in muscular injury prevention. The American journal of sports medicine, 16(2), 123-129.
Malliou, P., Rokka, S., Beneka, A., Mavridis, G., & Godolias, G. (2007). Reducing risk of injury due to warm up and cool down in dance aerobic instructors. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 20(1), 29-35.
Barengo, N.C Meneses-Echávez, J.F., Ramírez-Vélez, R., Cohen, D.D., Tovar, G., & Bautista, J.E.C. (2014). The Impact of the FIFA 11+ Training Program on Injury Prevention in Football Players: A Systematic Review. 2015. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 11(11), pp.11986–12000. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25415209
Cramer, J. T., Housh, T. J., Weir, J. P., Johnson, G. O., Coburn, J. W., & Beck, T. W. (2005). The acute effects of static stretching on peak torque, mean power output, electromyography, and mechanomyography. European journal of applied physiology, 93, 530-539. -
In this Q&A episode of the Science of Slink podcast, Dr. Rosy Boa addresses listener questions about pole dancing, injury recovery, proper nutrition, the impact of environmental factors on performance, and the evolution of pole equipment. Key topics include self myofascial release and its effect on hamstring flexibility, optimal eating times for performance, new injury recovery guidelines emphasizing blood flow and activity, and the impact of body types on pole dancing performance. Dr. Boa also explores how temperature and grip strength affect pole dancing and provides training recommendations for general health and fitness.
Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:38 The Science Behind Rolling Out Feet and Hamstring Flexibility
05:10 Pre and Post Workout Snacks
09:15 Injury Recovery: From RICE to PEACE and LOVE
12:41 Temperature and Pole Performance
15:46 Body Types and Pole Dancing
19:15 Optimal Weekly Training for Health
21:14 Understanding and Improving Grip Strength
25:03 Conclusion and Farewell
Citations
Fauris, P., López-de-Celis, C., Canet-Vintró, M., Martin, J. C., Llurda-Almuzara, L., Rodríguez-Sanz, J., ... & Pérez-Bellmunt, A. (2021). Does self-myofascial release cause a remote hamstring stretching effect based on myofascial chains? A randomized controlled trial. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(23), 12356.
Dubois, B., & Esculier, J. F. (2020). Soft-tissue injuries simply need PEACE and LOVE. British journal of sports medicine, 54(2), 72-73.
Lenard, J. G., & Kalpakjian, S. (1991). The effect of temperature on the coefficient of friction in flat rolling. CIRP annals, 40(1), 223-226.
Lee, D. H., Rezende, L. F., Joh, H. K., Keum, N., Ferrari, G., Rey-Lopez, J. P., ... & Giovannucci, E. L. (2022). Long-term leisure-time physical activity intensity and all-cause and cause-specific mortality: a prospective cohort of US adults. Circulation, 146(7), 523-534.
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In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa delves into the neuroscience behind pleasure, particularly in the context of dance. She explains the hedonic system, how pleasure systems function, and the specific attributes that make dance so enjoyable. Dr. Boa also shares practical takeaways for dancers to enhance their pleasure in dancing, and announces upcoming Q&A episodes.
Chapters:
01:16 Understanding Pleasure Systems
02:36 The Neuroscience of Pleasure
12:57 Pleasure and Dance
19:30 Practical Takeaways for Dancers
22:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Citations
Berridge, K. C., & Kringelbach, M. L. (2015). Pleasure systems in the brain. Neuron, 86(3), 646-664.
Kringelbach, M. L., & Berridge, K. C. (2017). The affective core of emotion: Linking pleasure, subjective well-being, and optimal metastability in the brain. Emotion Review, 9(3), 191-199.
Poikonen, H., Toiviainen, P., & Tervaniemi, M. (2016). Early auditory processing in musicians and dancers during a contemporary dance piece. Scientific Reports, 6(1), 33056.
Vander Elst, O. F., Vuust, P., & Kringelbach, M. L. (2021). Sweet anticipation and positive emotions in music, groove, and dance. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 39, 79-84.
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Welcome to 'Science of Slink,' the evidence-based pole podcast with Dr. Rosy Boa. In this episode, Dr. Boa explores the concept of distributed creativity and its implications for improvisational dance. She shares personal experiences from her dance journey and the impacts of dancing with others versus dancing alone. Dr. Boa discusses foundational theories of distributed cognition and creativity and highlights key studies, including a 2020 paper by Leach and Stevens on relational creativity in dance. Join her for insights into how collective improvisation enhances quality and relevance in dance movements and stay tuned for information on upcoming online freestyle classes and community events.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Science of Slink
00:41 Personal Journey and the Impact of COVID-19
03:33 The Concept of Distributed Creativity
04:47 Exploring Distributed Cognition
08:46 Distributed Creativity in Dance
12:29 Research Findings on Improvisational Dance
16:51 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events
Citations:
Hutchins E (1995).Cognition in the wild. Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press. ISBN 978-0-262-58146-2.
Sawyer, R. K., & DeZutter, S. (2009). Distributed creativity: How collective creations emerge from collaboration. Psychology of aesthetics, creativity, and the arts, 3(2), 81.
Leach, J., & Stevens, C. J. (2020). Relational creativity and improvisation in contemporary dance. Interdisciplinary Science Reviews, 45(1), 95–116. https://doi.org/10.1080/03080188.2020.1712541 -
In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' host Dr. Rosy Boa explores the evidence-based research surrounding the question 'Can pole dance help you de-stress?' Dr. Boa reviews various studies on how exercise, particularly aerobic activities like freestyle pole dancing, interact with the body’s stress systems to reduce stress. Topics include the physiological mechanisms like the HPA axis, recommendations for effective exercise regimens, and the benefits of integrating creative elements and deep breathing. Rosy also highlights the challenges of staying active when stressed and provides practical tips for incorporating stress-relieving activities into your routine.
Citations Mentioned:
Mastorakos, G., Pavlatou, M., Diamanti-Kandarakis, E., & Chrousos, G. P. (2005). Exercise and the stress system. Hormones (Athens), 4(2), 73-89.
Breus, M. J., & O'Connor, P. J. (1998). Exercise-induced anxiolysis: a test of the" time out" hypothesis in high anxious females. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 30(7), 1107-1112.
King, A. C., Baumann, K., O'Sullivan, P., Wilcox, S., & Castro, C. (2002). Effects of moderate-intensity exercise on physiological, behavioral, and emotional responses to family caregiving: a randomized controlled trial. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 57(1), M26-M36.
Spalding, T. W., Lyon, L. A., Steel, D. H., & Hatfield, B. D. (2004). Aerobic exercise training and cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress in sedentary young normotensive men and women. Psychophysiology, 41(4), 552-562.
Stults-Kolehmainen, M. A., & Sinha, R. (2014). The effects of stress on physical activity and exercise. Sports medicine, 44, 81-121.
Martin, L., Oepen, R., Bauer, K., Nottensteiner, A., Mergheim, K., Gruber, H., & Koch, S. C. (2018). Creative arts interventions for stress management and prevention—a systematic review. Behavioral Sciences, 8(2), 28.
Zaccaro, A., Piarulli, A., Laurino, M., Garbella, E., Menicucci, D., Neri, B., & Gemignani, A. (2018). How breath-control can change your life: a systematic review on psycho-physiological correlates of slow breathing. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 12, 353.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Science of Slink
00:32 The Stress-Relieving Power of Pole Dancing
01:11 Real-Life Experiences and Observations
05:25 Understanding the Science Behind Stress and Exercise
08:31 Effective Exercise Strategies for Stress Reduction
15:56 Incorporating Creativity and Deep Breathing
21:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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On this episode we're joined by Lauren McIntyre, a certified athletic trainer & clinical specialist at the NYU Langone Medical Center’s Harkness Center for Dance Injuries. (IG: @harknesscenterfordanceinjuries)
In this episode, we talk about:
What concussions are, how often they happen in dance & why they can be so ard to catch
What to do if you think you might have one
The revolution in concussion care (recommendations have changed drastically!)
How to reduce your recovery time by five days (or more!)
Advice for pole students & teachers on what to do BEFORE a concussion happens
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Are you struggling to stay consistent in your pole practice? In this episode, Dr. Rosy Boa explores the science of habits and goals and how they can help you build a sustainable routine. Learn why habits happen automatically, how cues play a role, and why nearly half of your daily actions are driven by routine. Discover how goals can support habit formation and how to create systems that stick. Plus, she shares practical tips to schedule, track, and celebrate your progress—all while keeping it fun and manageable.
Resources Mentioned:
5-day evidence-based pole reset: https://courses.slinkthroughstrength.com/5-day-challenge
For more on motivation: "how to stay motivated as a home poler" https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/how-to-stay-motivated-as-a-home-polerCitations:
Wood W, Neal DT. A new look at habits and the habit-goal interface. Psychol Rev. 2007;114(4):843–863. doi: 10.1037/0033-295X.114.4.843.
Neal DT, Wood W, Labrecque JS, Lally P. How do habits guide behavior? Perceived and actual triggers of habits in daily life. J Exp Soc Psychol. 2012;48:492–498.
Gardner B, Lally P, Wardle J. Making health habitual: the psychology of 'habit-formation' and general practice. Br J Gen Pract. 2012 Dec;62(605):664-6. doi: 10.3399/bjgp12X659466. PMID: 23211256; PMCID: PMC3505409.
Ceceli, A. O., & Tricomi, E. (2018). Habits and goals: a motivational perspective on action control. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 20, 110-116. -
Welcome back to another episode of Science of Slink!
This week Dr. Rosy Boa sits down with Dr. Marcia Dernie and talks about all things movement, play, and pole. Dr. Marcia is a DPT, yoga teacher, powerlifter, and strongwoman. Marcia and Rosy discuss how embracing play fosters emotional regulation, social connection, and self-expression. They highlight the importance of community in movement practices, including how working out with others can enhance consistency and motivation. Marcia shares practical tips for strengthening your vestibular system through balance exercises, eye gaze training, and spinning practice. Plus, they discuss how vestibular health can vary based on life stages, like menopause or postpartum recovery.
Take care of your vestibular system! Incorporate balance exercises, try eye-gaze training, and don’t shy away from spinning practice. And rediscover the joy of play, connect with a supportive community, and embrace movement as a path to wellness. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who inspires your movement journey!
Connect with Dr. Marcia:
https://www.doctormarcia.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/movewithmarcia
https://www.instagram.com/movewithmarcia
https://www.tiktok.com/@movewithmarcia
Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Marcia Dernie’s book:
“Movement for Every Body”
Use code “BODY” for 35% off and free shipping (ends 12/31)
https://www.northatlanticbooks.com/shop/movement-for-every-body/
Flying through pregnancy: https://www.spincityinstructortraining.com/product/flying-pregnancy-paperback/
Yoga for Pelvic Floor and Postpartum Health
https://www.northatlanticbooks.com/shop/yoga-for-pelvic-floor-and-postpartum-health/amp/
Vestibular Eye Gaze Exercises
https://ahc.aurorahealthcare.org/fywb/x20521.pdf
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Welcome back to another episode of Science of Slink!
This week Dr. Rosy Boa explores the science and social aspects of pole dancing, focusing on how the practice can be inclusive for all body types. She discusses why it’s essential to find supportive instructors and environments that uplift, not shame, and acknowledge that experiences may differ for polers in larger bodies. She looks at the different physical challenges a plus size poler may face and gives her personal recommendations on poles and pole wear. From increased stickiness and skin sensitivity to heat management and grip aids, she shares practical tips to enhance pole practice for plus size polers. Safety is key, so she highlights research on heat-related risks and injury prevention, especially for those adapting to new physical loads. This episode breaks down the myths and challenges while celebrating pole dancing as an empowering practice for all.
Learn more and take class with Rosy online at https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/Citations:
Howe, A. S., & Boden, B. P. (2007). Heat-related illness in athletes. The American journal of sports medicine, 35(8), 1384-1395.
Wyndham CH. Heat stroke and hyperthermia in marathon runners.
Ann NY Acad Sci. 1977;301:128-138.
Kaplan, T. A., Digel, S. L., Scavo, V. A., & Arellana, S. B. (1995). Effect of obesity on injury risk in high school football players. Clinical journal of sport medicine, 5(1), 43-47.
Wilder, R. P., & Cicchetti, M. (2009). Common injuries in athletes with obesity and diabetes. Clinics in sports medicine, 28(3), 441-453.
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Dr. Rosy Boa dives into the science behind pole dancing, discussing the physical adaptations required for the sport. She clarifies the specific strength requirements for pole dancers, emphasizing the importance of specialized training over general fitness. Through examining recent studies, she highlights how pole dancing improves core, upper body strength, and grip strength, while identifying the need for anti-rotational strength, unilateral strength, and proper shoulder flexion. The podcast also offers insights into the unique physical and psychological benefits that come with pole dancing experience.
Learn more and take class with Rosy online at https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Clarification
00:21 Common Misconceptions About Pole Dancing
00:41 Specific Physical Adaptations in Pole Dancers
02:33 Research on Pole Dancing Strength
03:39 Methods of Measuring Pole Strength
05:26 Studies on Pole Dance Training Effects
10:14 Psychological and Physiological Outcomes
12:58 Recommended Strength Training for Pole Dancers
18:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Citations
Hawley, J. A. (2002). Adaptations of skeletal muscle to prolonged, intense endurance training. Clinical and experimental pharmacology and physiology, 29(3), 218-222.
Gustavo F. Pedrosa, Fernando V. Lima, Brad J. Schoenfeld, Lucas T. Lacerda, Marina G. Simões, Mariano R. Pereira, Rodrigo C.R. Diniz & Mauro H. Chagas. (2022) Partial range of motion training elicits favorable improvements in muscular adaptations when carried out at long muscle lengths. European Journal of Sport Science 22:8, pages 1250-1260.
Ignatoglou, D., Paliouras, A., Paraskevopoulos, E., Strimpakos, N., Bilika, P., Papandreou, M., & Kapreli, E. (2024). Pole Dancing-Specific Muscle Strength: Development and Reliability of a Novel Assessment Protocol. Methods and Protocols, 7(3), 44.
Nawrocka, A., Pawelak, Z., & Mynarski, A. (2024). Longitudinal Effects of Pole Dance Training on Body Composition and Muscular Strength in Women.
Greenspan, S. J., & Stuckey, M. I. (2024). Preparation For Flight: The Physical Profile of Pre-Professional and Professional Circus Artists in the United States. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 19(5), 591.
Dias, A. R. L., De Melo, B. L., Dos Santos, A. A., Silva, J. M. A., Leite, G., Bocalini, D. S., ... & Serra, A. J. (2022). Women pole dance athletes present morphofunctional left ventricular adaptations and greater physical fitness. Science & Sports, 37(7), 595-602.
Nicholas, J., Dimmock, J. A., Alderson, J. A., Donnelly, C. J., Jackson, B., Dimmock, J. A., ... & Donnelly, C. J. (2024). Exploring the psychological and physiological outcomes of recreational pole dancing: a feasibility study. Circus: Arts, Life, and Sciences, 2(2). -
Welcome back to another episode of Science of Slink! Today we are talking about how to stay motivated as a home poler. In this episode I talk about the most common motivation that men and women have for exercising, how home based exercise programs compare to center based programs, and how motivation can change depending on your age. I also talk through how to build self-efficacy as you are learning new skills on and off the pole. Whether you are new to pole or not, sometimes our motivation can change. Let’s look together at the research behind it.
Sources:
Al Kubaisy, W., Mohamad, M., Ismail, Z., & Abdullah, N. N. (2015). Gender Differences: Motivations for performing physical exercise among adults in Shah Alam. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 202, 522-530.
McDonagh, S. T., Dalal, H., Moore, S., Clark, C. E., Dean, S. G., Jolly, K., ... & Taylor, R. S. (2023). Home‐based versus centre‐based cardiac rehabilitation. Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (10).
Schutzer KA, Graves BS. Barriers and motivations to exercise in older adults. Prev
Med 2004;39:1056–61.
Crystal N Steltenpohl, Michael Shuster, Eric Peist, Amber Pham, Joseph A Mikels, Me Time, or We Time? Age Differences in Motivation for Exercise, The Gerontologist, Volume 59, Issue 4, August 2019, Pages 709–717, https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gny038
Al-Eisa, E., Al-Rushud, A., Alghadir, A., Anwer, S., Al-Harbi, B., Al-Sughaier, N., ... & Al-Muhaysin, H. A. (2016). Effect of motivation by “Instagram” on adherence to physical activity among female college students. BioMed research international, 2016(1), 1546013.
This podcast is a production of Slink Through Strength, the inclusive, evidence-based online pole studio, which can be found online at Slink Through Strength dot com. Thanks for joining!
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In this episode, Rosy discusses three important tips for those who are either new to pole dance or returning after a long break. The episode covers the importance of easing into the practice gently, understanding realistic timelines for bodily adaptations, and exercising with friends or a virtual buddy to stay motivated.Link to the warm up video she mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GAP_7LDgo8 Want to join Rosy for your home pole training? Check out the Slink Through Strength online studio! https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/Citations: - Franklin, B. A., Thompson, P. D., Al-Zaiti, S. S., Albert, C. M., Hivert, M. F., Levine, B. D., ... & American Heart Association Physical Activity Committee of the Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Clinical Cardiology; and Stroke Council. (2020). Exercise-related acute cardiovascular events and potential deleterious adaptations following long-term exercise training: placing the risks into perspective–an update: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 141(13), e705-e736.- de Boer MD, Maganaris CN, Seynnes OR, Rennie MJ, Narici MV. Time course of muscular, neural and tendinous adaptations to 23 day unilateral lower-limb suspension in young men. J Physiol. 2007 Sep 15;583(Pt 3):1079-91. doi: 10.1113/jphysiol.2007.135392. Epub 2007 Jul 26. PMID: 17656438; PMCID: PMC2277190.- Bohm S, Mersmann F, Arampatzis A. Human tendon adaptation in response to mechanical loading: a systematic review and meta-analysis of exercise intervention studies on healthy adults. Sports Med Open. 2015 Dec;1(1):7. doi: 10.1186/s40798-015-0009-9. Epub 2015 Mar 27. PMID: 27747846; PMCID: PMC4532714.- Irwin, B.C., Scorniaenchi, J., Kerr, N.L. et al. Aerobic Exercise Is Promoted when Individual Performance Affects the Group: A Test of the Kohler Motivation Gain Effect. ann. behav. med. 44, 151–159 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-012-9367-4#poledance #polefitness #homepole
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Welcome back to another episode of Science of Slink! Today we are talking about a very important topic for furthering pole success, how to do spin pole without getting dizzy. Disclaimer: performance advice, NOT medical advice--if you're suffering from vertigo or dizziness talk to the other kind of doctor. We will discuss what the vestibular system is, things that can affect nausea, what is vestibular system adaption, and some drills that will help.
So what is the vestibular system? Your vestibular system controls your sense of movement & orientation. The body has loops of the inner ear (kind of like a level filled with "glitter", the otoliths) and Cilla (tiny hairs in the inner ear) that hold fluid, and when that fluid moves, those fluids inform your body of where it is in space. The vestibular system is also very closely connected to the visual system. More resources are attached below for more information on the visual system
Things that can affect dizziness, especially nausea include aging, (targeted exercises can help!) dehydration, hormonal disorders, especially low estrogen, duration & intensity such as adding plane of motion, and heat exhaustion or sensitivity
One way to improve dizziness is by practicing vestibular system adaptation. Some ways to practice this are getting better at interpreting & recovering from intense vestibular inputs and balance!
Some drills you can try as well are vision drills, head movement drills, some pole-specific gentle head movements at the start of practice that can help prepare you, spin drills, and start SLOW. Additionally, neuro performance is an increasingly active area of research (addressing sub-clinical problems)
Slink Through Strength Email Sign Up: http://eepurl.com/iimjnX
Join pole instructor & personal trainer Rosy Boa as she chats with experts about the evidence-based practices you can introduce to your pole journey to improve your pole journey and feel better. The Evidence-Based Pole Podcast aims to help pole dancers feel better on and off the pole by talking with experts and diving into relevant scientific research to find evidence-based insights we can apply to our pole journeys. It’s a production of Slink Through Strength, the inclusive, evidence-based online pole studio, which can be found online at slinkthroughstrength.com.
Edited by: Simone Rossette
Sources:
Clinic, Cleveland. “Vestibular System: Function & Anatomy.” Cleveland Clinic, 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/vestibular-system.
Somisetty, Swathi, and Joe M Das. “Neuroanatomy, Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex.” PubMed, StatPearls Publishing, 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545297/.
Jahn, Klaus. “The Aging Vestibular System: Dizziness and Imbalance in the Elderly.” Advances in Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, vol. 82, 2019, pp. 143–149, www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/490283, https://doi.org/10.1159/000490283.
Altın, Büşra, and Songül Aksoy. “Is Inadequate Water Intake a Risk Factor for Vestibular Disorders?” The Journal of International Advanced Otology, vol. 18, no. 3, 1 May 2022, pp. 264–268, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35608497/, https://doi.org/10.5152/iao.2022.21303.
El, Rhizlane, et al. “Vestibular Disorders and Hormonal Dysregulations: State of the Art and Clinical Perspectives.” Cells, vol. 12, no. 4, 18 Feb. 2023, pp. 656–656, https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12040656.
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Welcome back pole dancer to Science of Slink. In this episode we are touching on an important topic, 5 Exercise Science Insights EVERY Pole Dancer Should Know.
I also wanted to start by including the link to Slinker’s delight show tickets: https://slinkthroughstrength.as.me/?appointmentType=60959877
Click the link above to join this awesome opportunity to see pole tricks.
As pole dancers 5 super important things is training in different facets of fitness. To start, flexibility is one form of fitness to focus on. Flexibility is also commonly referred to as ease of movement. Flexibility is important to trail actively and passively.
Next is strength, both absolute and relative. Absolute strength is about how much you can lift. Relative strength is more relevant to the body weight-based pole, meaning you can lift 100% of your body weight.
Endurance is our next important one. For endurance, there is cardio typically which brings strength for your heart. Endurance is the ability to move over a long period of time and recover quickly.
Balance is our 4th most important thing to focus on, especially if you wear heels in your routines. In balance training, the sensory & vestibular systems are heavily involved. One thing to improve your balance is eye training.
Last but not least is Skill-specific training, skill training is repetition with variation. This includes motor learning, some examples of skill training are inverting, handstands, and specific tricks. These sessions of skill-specific training will generally align with your goals and your training of the aforementioned important training that will help you build your skills indirectly.
One more important way to build your skills is periodization. More often is not always better: Olivia Reeves, the Olympic weightlifter, who won gold in Paris who Majored in exercise science only trains four times a week whereas most train 9 times a week.
One last thing to keep in mind is how to adjust the intensity of your practice and What counts as rest. For adjusting intensity adjust how long, how often, and how hard you train. Medium intensity is great! So What counts as rest? What you find resting depends on you But ALWAYS good quality sleep is a great way to recharge!
Slink Through Strength Email Sign Up: http://eepurl.com/iimjnX
Join pole instructor & personal trainer Rosy Boa as she chats with experts about the evidence-based practices you can introduce to your pole journey to improve your pole journey and feel better. The Evidence-Based Pole Podcast aims to help pole dancers feel better on and off the pole by talking with experts and diving into relevant scientific research to find evidence-based insights we can apply to our pole journeys. It’s a production of Slink Through Strength, the inclusive, evidence-based online pole studio, which can be found online at slinkthroughstrength.com.
Edited by: Simone Rossette
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