Pole Dancing is a mixture of both dancing and gymnastics, where the dancer uses a standstill vertical pole. It is performed in both a sensual setting (strip clubs) and non-sensual setting (circuses).

Pole dancing is a relatively new form of burlesque entertainment consisting of the performance of dance routines on and around a pole. Though traditionally relegated to clubs of a varying level of reputability, pole dancing has recently been adopted as a form of aerobic exercise.

Perform dance/gymnastics routines while on a vertically-mounted pole.

There are no standardized rules for pole dancing due to its traditionally non-competitve nature. Clubs and venues featuring pole dancing do however establish rules regarding the conduct and behavior between dancer and patrons.

While striptease and burlesque are ancient forms of entertainment dating back to biblical times, pole dancing is much younger. The first known instances of pole dancing occurred in traveling burlesque shows, where women would dance around the support poles of tents. The first choreographed pole dance occurred in Oregon in 1968. The practice soon spread to Canada where it became immensely popular. By the 1990's pole dancing had spread throughout the North America, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia. Today pole dancing is commonplace in strip clubs around the world, and has recently become more mainstream with the advent of pole dancing fitness programs.

Pole

Pole dancing is a relatively safe sport, though injury has been known to occur. Most common injuries involve minor scrapes and bruises associated with unplanned contact with the pole or ground.

Pole dancing requires a strong core and upper body. These can be obtained through weight training and exercise specifically targeting those areas.

Show Pole - clear plastic poles that provide visual effects such as water and glitter, and are used in conjunction with strobe lighting

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pole_dance