15 Years on the Pole: Strength, Setbacks & Finding My Flow.-Katerina

Written by Katerina

My Pole Journey — And Why I Still Love It 15 Years Later

I started pole dancing in 2010. At the time, I had no idea it would change my life.

As a child, I played volleyball professionally. Sports were my world. But after a serious ankle injury, I had to retire. I couldn’t return to the level my team deserved, and walking away from something I loved was incredibly hard.

Then one day, a friend invited me to try a pole class.

Ironically, she never went back… and I stayed for 15 years. 😂

From Student to Instructor

When I began, there were very few studios and even fewer experienced instructors. I learned a lot by studying videos, breaking down movement, and experimenting on my own. I didn’t plan to become a teacher — it just happened naturally.

I found myself explaining techniques to new girls in class, helping with grips, body positioning, and transitions. One day I was asked to substitute for an instructor… and I never stopped teaching after that.

Since 2011, teaching has been a regular part of my life.

Expanding Beyond the Pole

Over the years, I explored many related disciplines:

• A dedicated period focused purely on advanced tricks

• Training on aerial hoop

• Teaching and studying aerial silks

• Competing professionally in duos — my partner and I even won the Russian Championship

I went through an intensive period of education, earning multiple certifications in:

• Pole sport

• Exotic pole

• Stretching & flexibility training

I am also an accredited judge in a national system similar to IPSF and POSA standards.

Beyond performance, I became deeply interested in rehabilitation and biomechanics. I completed long-term training in neurorehabilitation and studied psychosomatics through the Feldenkrais method. I also gained foundational knowledge in working with scoliosis using the Schroth and SEAS methods.

Understanding how the body truly works — not just how to perform tricks — has completely changed the way I teach.

What Inspires Me

I love watching championships from different countries. The Chinese school has its own unique aesthetic. The Russian school emphasizes strength and lines. The American and Australian schools are powerful and dynamic.

But my biggest inspiration?

My students.

There’s nothing better than seeing their progress — cleaner technique, stronger control, more confidence. I love watching their eyes light up when something finally “clicks.”

As my students grow, I have to grow too. They push me to create more challenging material, refine my eye as a coach, and continue learning.

Where I Am Now

Recently, I’ve been drawn more toward flow, old-school styles, and even the erotic genre. I love flow work — the constant engagement, the strength and control required to create beautiful lines and seamless transitions.

Flow is honest. It demands presence. It demands connection.

And that’s exactly what I bring into my classes.

Join Me on Thursdays

If you’re ready to:

✨ Improve your technique✨ Build real strength and control✨ Challenge yourself with intermediate tricks✨ Express yourself through choreography

Join me every Thursday at Girl Next Door Fitness:

6:30–7:30 PM — Intermediate Tricks7:30–8:30 PM — Intermediate Choreography

Book your spot at:👉 www.girlnextdoorfitness.com

Let’s grow stronger, more technical, and more confident — together. 💛

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