Pull of the pole: How Hyderabadis are finding strength, confidence and calm through pole dance

Strength, flexibility, and balance converge in the demanding art of pole dance. As more Hyderabadis ditch conventional gym routines for the pole, they are discovering the benefits go far beyond the physical — fostering a space that is as much about stress relief and confidence as it is about power.‘It helps me switch off and just be present’

“It is as much about mental wellness as it is about fitness. The moment I’m on the pole, I forget everything else — it’s like all the stress just fades away. I started in 2023 out of pure fascination, and over time it’s become a form of liberation. I train two to three times a week for about 90 minutes each session, and it’s the best part of my routine. Beyond the workouts, I’ve also made some really good friends in the group, we support each other and sometimes even hang out outside class.

”— Naz, pole artist

‘I found strength, fitness and self-confidence through pole dancing’“I had developed back and shoulder pain from my earlier desk job, but after starting pole dance classes, I gradually built strength and improved my overall fitness. More importantly, it helped me feel confident in my own body. Pole dancing really changed the way I see myself — it’s not about looking a certain way, but appreciating what your body can do. That shift towards body positivity has been empowering.”

— Uma, writer and pole artist

‘Even men can enjoy pole dancing’

As a yoga teacher, performing on the pole is all about the connection between body and breath. Since being introduced to it last January, I’ve been practising at least twice a month at a couple of studios in the city, and I even set up a pole at home. I’ve never felt hesitant — neither from my side nor from people around me. Though many still see it as something meant only for women, a lot of men also enjoy pole dancing— Kunal Sahni, yoga teacher

As a callisthenics coach, pole dance opened up a whole new dimension of movement for me. When I attended a few workshops last November, I saw how strength and artistry come together. The workouts were intense yet fun, and training with music and dance makes the whole experience even more enjoyable— Samuel Abhishek, callisthenics coach

Getting started

— Inputs by Prachita K, Fellow Company Secretary & Pole Instructor— Biswajit TalukdarPics by Sanjana Pulugurtha