A Pole Dancer Exposed: What's in My Bag?

I got this idea from another online blog.  I'm frequently asked about product recommendations for pole and over the years after trial and error I have become accustomed to many personal favorites I thought would be fun to share with everyone.  I'd like to start with introducing my bag.  It's a wonderful little bag that surprisingly fits an enormous amount of pole gear- along with multiple pairs of stilettos.  I received this bag this past Christmas as a gift. (My studio also sells these bags too!)  On one side, the studio I work for has their logo printed.  On the other side there is a zippered pocket where I usually keep my lyrical foot covers, ipod, wallet, and car keys.  Behind the zippered pocket there is a pocket where I usually slip my cell phone.   This bag is light weight and easy to maneuver. It has a detachable shoulder strap and two handles for carrying.  One of the biggest perks I've noticed with this bag compared to my old bag is that when I get into my car, the bag effortlessly transitions from me to passenger seat.  I no longer get caught up on my steering wheel or driver door as I'm struggling to quickly get myself into the car safely after a night of classes and post work out exhaustion.  So, like a nosy house guest who likes to go through the medicine cabinet, I've decided to spare you all the agony of guessing what is inside that cute little bag....

What's in My Bag? 

 

1.) Lesson plans- I've printed out my class agenda for each week to stay on track with the curriculum. I keep these in a folder along with notes for warm ups, updated phone numbers/emails of fellow instructors, and dance routines.  

2.) Capezio Foot Undeez in black- These are easy to slip on when I need to get moving! Check out my recent review, The Perfect Pirouette to learn about why I prefer these to the many other forms of lyrical foot covers.

3.) Blistex Chapstick- What can I say? I hate dry lips. 

4.) Ipod Nano- I've got play lists specifically for pole, feeling sexy, aerial silks, and my sensuous flow and flexibility class.  Music sets the mood. 

5.) Corn Huskers Lotion- I used this as a grip aid.  Rarely do I rely on grip aids but when I do, I find corn huskers is an affordable and natural product that works great! I carry this with me for my students who often in the beginner levels perspire more frequently in their hands. This has been a life savor in classes!

6.) Mighty Grip Knee Pads- Floor work is harsh on the knees and nothing is sexier than healthy pain free knees as you get older.  These knee pads are designed specifically for pole dancers and can be used for inverted leg hangs.  Pads also have tack on posterior for secure holding in knee pit moves.

7.) Mighty Grip Trixie Toes- These are my latest addition to my pole accessories! Similar to foot undeez, Trixie Toes are specifically designed for pole dancers and have tack on the top of the foot to aid in climbing. 

8.) Mighty Grip Tacky Gloves- I used these a lot when I was working on my cartwheel mount and twisted grip hand spring.  These are great for moves that require hand strength- especially during slippery pole days.  A great alternative to grip aids. 

9.) Leg Warmers- I love leg warmers!  I will use these during my warm ups at the beginning of class or double them up to protect my knees.  Leg warmers are not only functional for pole dancers, they are a sexy addition to any outfit and accentuate the beauty of stilettos. 

10.) Video Camera and Tripod- I record all my practices so I can review and self critique my dance flow and trick execution.  

11.) Travel Manicure Set- I hate hang nails especially when working with silks.  Finger nails can snag on the silks so it's important to keep a nail file handy to fix problems.  

12.) Stilettos- I prefer Pleasers.  I have multiple colors and designs and my favorite size is 6 3/4" heels.  These are a must have for pole dancers.  Shoes to a pole dancer are like ice skates to an ice skater.  They make the sport and are fun and sexy accessories!

Pole Essentials

In addition to the items in my bag, there are a few items that are necessary for my classes/practices.  One would be my attire.  I always wear pole shorts and a sports bra or another pole specific top during my classes.  While teaching, I wear my studio logo top.  If I'm teaching silks, I wear leggings that offer maximum coverage. I can usually get away with a tank top for silks but I like my students to wear shirts that are short or long sleeved to prevent fabric burn on sensitive skin areas.  Before class I have on my studio logo super comfy sweat pants and zippered hoody.  I generally always show up to the studio in a pair of Uggs- spring, summer, fall, & winter- that's right- I'm an all year Uggie girl.  ;) 

Second, I always make sure I have bottled water or a sports drink (typically Gatorade).  Proper hydration is important for over all well being.  Hydration also targets muscles and helps prevent post work out soreness.  I always preach hydration at the end of every one of my classes.  I can't stress enough the importance of properly hydrating. 

Third, I always have a half alcohol half water solution handy in a spray bottle with some pole towels. (My studio provides these for us.)  I like my pole to feel clean and fresh.  Not only does alcohol clean the pole, it also doubles as a grip aid.  Sometimes this is more than enough in my classes but on occasion I need an extra little something- so I will bust out my Corn Huskers. 

I hope this entry will inspire others to share with me what they keep in their pole bags.  Feel free to leave me a comment, I'd love to hear what you all have found to be must haves for a great class! Happy poling!

Additional pictures of my pole bag can be viewed here:

Pole Bag Pics