Written by Salis Charming
Pole fitness, also known as pole dancing or pole sport, has made significant strides toward being recognized as a legitimate sport, and there have been ongoing efforts to include it in the Olympics. Here’s a summary of where things stand:
Progress Toward Olympic Inclusion:
International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF):
The IPSF is the main organization pushing for pole fitness to be recognized as a competitive sport. They have been working to standardize rules, develop a code of ethics, and organize international competitions.
In 2017, the IPSF received observer status from the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF), a crucial step toward potential Olympic inclusion. This status means that the sport is recognized as meeting the criteria of a sport, which is an essential milestone on the path to the Olympics.
Criteria for Olympic Sports:
For a sport to be included in the Olympics, it must meet specific criteria, including a governing body that adheres to Olympic standards, widespread participation across the globe, and a well-established competitive structure.
Pole fitness has been growing in popularity worldwide, with competitions held in numerous countries and a strong community of athletes.
Challenges:
Despite the progress, there are challenges. The perception of pole fitness as a form of dance or entertainment rather than a sport remains a hurdle. However, the IPSF and the pole community are working to change this perception by emphasizing the athleticism, discipline, and skill involved in pole fitness.
The process of becoming an Olympic sport can be lengthy, often taking decades. Sports like skateboarding and surfing, which were recently added to the Olympics, spent years building their cases.
Current Status:
As of now, pole fitness is not yet included in the Olympic Games, but it continues to gain recognition and legitimacy in the sports world. The IPSF is committed to achieving full membership with the GAISF, which would bring it closer to Olympic consideration.
Pole fitness is already featured in international competitions, such as the World Pole Sports Championships, and has a growing presence in other multi-sport events, which helps build its case for Olympic inclusion.
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