Are you a passionate pole dancer and thinking about taking part in a pole competition? Yay, we think that’s a great idea! Preparing for a competition can give your training an extra focus and increase your motivation at the same time. Not to mention the boost to your self-image that your time on stage gives you! In the following article, we’ll show you what you should pay attention to when preparing.
1. Study category & level
Pole dance competitions often offer different categories and levels to allow dancers of all experience levels to participate. Take a close look at the different options and choose the one that best suits your abilities. Take into account your technique, strength and flexibility as well as your experience with competitions.
2. Check scoresheet
The scoresheets or judging schemes of a competition may vary, but there are often common criteria such as technique, expression, choreography, creativity and level of difficulty. Study the scoresheet of your chosen competition carefully to understand what the judges are looking for. This will allow you to tailor your preparation accordingly and emphasize your strengths.
3. Create a concept
A strong concept will help your performance stand out. Think about the story you want to tell or the emotions you want to convey. Your concept should fit you as a dancer and reflect your personality. Visualize your ideas and sketch out possible movements or scenes to structure your performance.
4. Find song, outfit & ideas
The choice of song is crucial for the mood and flow of your performance. Choose a song that inspires you and supports your choreography – and that you are prepared to listen to a dozen times 😉 Your outfit should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also emphasize your movements and not restrict you while dancing. Collect ideas for your outfit and possible performance accessories that reinforce your message.
5. Develop choreography
Turn your ideas into a choreography that emphasizes your strengths as a dancer. Make sure you have a balanced mix of spins, tricks and transitions and also plan enough floor flow. Your choreography should be fluid and fit well with the music. Experiment with different movements and sequences to develop your individual style. A freestyle that you build on and clean up could also serve as a starting point. And: Be prepared to revise and adapt your choreography repeatedly. Sometimes small changes can make a big difference and take your performance to the next level.
6. Organize support
Working on a choreography and performance can be intense and sometimes frustrating. Don’t let such moments discourage you and get support: whether it’s getting feedback from pole buddies, exchanging ideas or using the help of a trainer in a private lesson. You can work on specific moves and tricks or get input for transitions or your choreography. No matter who the feedback comes from, be open to suggestions for improvement and take the opportunity to hone your technique, expression or overall performance.
7. Practise, practise, practise
The key to success lies in continuous training, or as the saying goes: repetition is queen. Invest as much time and effort as possible in your preparation and practise regularly to perfect your performance. The more you practise, the more confident you will be on stage and the better you will be able to present your skills. But don’t forget to plan in enough rest days too! Don’t forget that the most important thing is to have fun dancing and show your passion. So let your inner joy run free and share it with the audience.
