As a self-proclaimed gym grouch, I’m always on the lookout for sports that are fun activities rather than monotonous exertion. I spent seven years climbing and bouldering but wanted to take on a new challenge and pole dancing had been on my list for a while. My path quickly led me to the Pole Flow dance studio. With Pole Flow, I found a studio that goes far beyond simply teaching pole dancing. Founded by Lee Tom in 2015, the studio teaches the physical but also mental benefits of dance, while promoting inclusion and breaking down prejudices about the sport. Although pole dancing is trendy today, the sport is unfortunately still cliché-ridden. Pole Flow creates an environment where people from different backgrounds are encouraged to discover the art of dance and challenge social prejudices. Above all, pole dance is perfect for your body awareness and coordination — building strength and improving flexibility playfully. It doesn’t matter what age or gender you are, the important thing is that you enjoy it.
Covering more than 80 square meters, the studio is equipped with twelve poles and enough space for dance training, photo shoots and private events. In addition to technical acrobatic courses, Lee offers courses such as “Low Flow”, which focuses on musicality and lyrical expression through movement. “Sensual Flow” combines elements of Oldschool pole dance with snake-like movements inspired by belly dance. The regular workshops, such as “Sensual Masc” where participants are invited to explore their innate masculine energy, are also interesting. The one-hour courses begin with a short warm-up, stretch and strength exercises, followed by step-by-step choreography rehearsals. Pole dance is not only fun but offers a form of artistic expression and trains the body holistically. Whether you’re an experienced pole dancer or a beginner, there are courses for everyone, even gym-phobes like me.
Text: Laura Stoellger / Photos: Robyn Steffen
Pole Flow, Ziegrastr.11, 12057 Berlin–Neukölln; map
@poleflowberlin
