Ever feel like you’re stuck in your pole journey? Like the same move keeps slipping away, or your motivation just isn’t hitting like it used to? Don’t worry – you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong. Hitting a plateau is a natural part of learning and growing as a dancer. It’s a sign that your body and brain are processing something new.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to shake things up and fall back in love with pole again. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you reignite that spark.
1. Revisit Your Why
Take a moment to reconnect with your original motivation. Was it strength? Self-expression? Community? Confidence? Whatever it was, it’s still there – you might just need a little reminder. Think about how far you’ve already come and what brought you joy when you first started.
2. Change It Up
Sometimes, the fastest way forward is sideways. A few ways to shift gears:
- Try a new class – Switch up your usual routine with something fresh, like Exotic Flow, Spin Pole, or Floorwork.
- Train with a different instructor – Every teacher brings a unique perspective, and a new voice might explain something in a way that finally clicks.
- Go “backward” to move forward – Take a lower-level class to clean up technique, build confidence, or master moves on your non-dominant side. It’s humbling – and powerful.
- Cross-train – Stretching, strength training, dance classes, or flexibility workshops can address limiting factors and support your pole skills.
- Book a private session – Focused, 1:1 attention can work wonders for breaking through mental or physical barriers.
3. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Pole is demanding – on the body and the mind. Sometimes the best thing you can do is step back. Rest helps your muscles to repair and your brain to process. Taking a short break doesn’t mean you’re falling behind. In fact, it might be just what you need to leap ahead.
4. Track Your Progress (Even the Tiny Stuff)
Progress isn’t always about nailing the big trick – it’s also the cleaner lines, longer holds, and smoother transitions. Journaling your wins or filming your sessions can help you see just how much you’re growing, even if it doesn’t feel like it at the moment.
5. Lean Into Your Pole Community
You’re never doing this alone. Talk to your instructors, share how you’re feeling, and connect with your fellow dancers. Chances are, they’ve been where you are – and they’ll remind you that plateaus are part of the process. At Gravity Arts, we’ve got your back, always!
6. Set a New (Exciting) Goal
Goals can be magic when you’re feeling stuck. Try:
- Mastering a new spin combo
- Training your non-dominant side
- Performing in a showcase
- Signing up for a competition (!)
- Simply showing up consistently for yourself
Make it something that excites you. Big or small, a fresh goal brings purpose and direction.
Final Words: Trust the Process
Plateaus are tough – but they often come right before a breakthrough. Keep showing up, be kind to your body, and know that progress isn’t always linear. Whether you’re flying high or hanging low, your pole journey is still moving forward.
We see you. We believe in you. And we’re here to dance through it together. 💜
