So, you have finally mastered the Fireman or Ankle spin on the pole. But there’s a problem. You’re done spinning – but the room has not.
Struggling with dizziness while pole dancing?
Don't worry. You’re not alone and it’s totally normal for pole dance newbies.
It’s Not You. It’s Your Ear
First, let’s explain why it’s happening. The “cochlea,” found in our inner ear is designed to tell the brain if we are moving or standing still. It contains a fluid that stimulates special nerve cells that sends the signal to the brain when we’re in motion. So even though you are done with your spin, the fluid may continue to activate those cells, telling your brain you are still moving or “in danger,” even though your feet are firmly planted on the floor.
The result is dizziness.
The good news is as you continue to practice regularly and grow in skill, your body will adjust to the new movements.
In The Meantime, Hacks
Until then, here are some tips you can try to help combat dizziness on the pole. See which ones work for you. 1. WAIT: Don’t hate me. I know. It sucks. You have to be patient. But seriously, hang in there. It will get better IN TIME.
2. FOCUS: Don’t look around the room while you are spinning on the pole. That will increase the turbulence in your inner ear and send all kinds of crazy signals to your brain. Instead try to keep your eyes fixed on a specific place in the Cheeky Fitness Studio and keep turning your head back around to it. This should trick your cochlea into believing you are not spinning at all.
3. STEADY: Try not to do a lot of hair flicks or flips as a beginner pole spinner. By keeping your head stabilized as you whirl around the pole, you’ll reduce your bouts of dizziness. Once you can end your spin without stumbling around then you’re ready for those sexy head turns.
4. DIRECTION: Don’t get stuck spinning in the same direction. By spinning both ways your inner-ear fluid has a chance to adjust to the motion and balance itself out. Another trick is to spin –on the spot- in the opposite direction once you have dismounted from the pole. Then jump or hop in place to regain control. This can also help reduce the dizzies.
5. CONTROL: Spinning too fast or out of control is normal for pole dancing beginners and the main reason newcomers struggle with dizziness. Controlling your pace takes time as your lean how to slow down or build momentum through pulling your body in tighter toward the pole (faster) or extending your arms away (slower) through various poses and tricks. You can speed this learning curve along by signing up for a Cheeky Fitness Pole Conditioning and/or Muscle Up class. Build your upper body strength as well as learn how to activate and isolate those specific muscle groups that will help you dominate your spins – without the spinning room. Still have questions? Call us at 561-215-9125 or go to cheekyfitness.com for the latest class schedule.
