In June 2024, I had the incredible privilege of performing at the Material Arts event Desert Storm in Walvis Bay, Namibia. This performance was not only an opportunity to showcase my passion for Flying Pole to an enthusiastic audience but also a truly special honor. ❤️
I owe this opportunity to a close-knit family in Namibia whom I impressed with my pole dance successes over the past year. They wanted me as a show act for the event, and I simply couldn’t resist.
When I accepted the invitation, I quickly realized it wouldn’t be easy. Finding or even renting an X-Stage in Namibia proved nearly impossible. But instead of letting that discourage me, I set my sights on performing with my Flying Pole.
The idea of performing with the Flying Pole was not only exciting but also extremely challenging. But let’s be honest – Flying Pole is simply breathtaking and WOW ❤️😍 It looks so impressive, but the training for it was tough and filled with setbacks.
My Flying Pole Training
For weeks, I trained intensively. At first, I often lost my rotation on the Flying Pole and struggled with the tricks and transitions. Moves that were so easy on the regular pole (like Sister Split and Iron X) were nearly impossible on the Flying Pole. It was incredibly frustrating how difficult everything was. I trained twice a week, and only after hours of scrolling through Instagram and studying countless example videos did I finally understand how to spin quickly and build momentum. But then came the next hurdle… I kept feeling nauseous 😵💫
While I could easily handle fast spins on the regular pole, the Flying Pole was a whole different challenge physically. I tried every possible approach. I trained first on an empty stomach, then with small snacks like cola and pretzels – until I eventually found a small routine that helped my body react less sensitively. But it also took a lot of practice and getting used to the spins. The time for the performance was getting shorter and shorter…
Visualization
What always helps me in show and competition preparations is visualizing my choreography. While jogging, I listen to the performance song five to six times and go through the movements in my mind. This mental preparation has been incredibly helpful in training the choreography not just physically but mentally as well. I could prepare my muscles for the movements and internalize the choreography.
Challenges upon Challenges
Just before my trip to Namibia, the worst-case scenario happened: The rotating part of my Flying Pole broke. During my choreography, the pole kept wobbling, which made training extremely difficult and worsened my dizziness. Fortunately, thanks to my trainer, I was able to borrow a replacement part and proceed with my trip. But the difficulties didn’t stop there. 😂
Another challenge was training at the appropriate height. At home, my Flying Pole was mounted directly on the ceiling, and we always worried that the vibrations might be different at another height – which is why we wanted to practice with a higher ceiling. On the farm in Namibia, where I spent a few days before my performance, I was determined to practice on a tall tree. We secured the Flying Pole to a branch about five meters high, and the first attempt was disastrous. The vibrations were so different, and I struggled to perform my choreography. But fortunately, our bodies are remarkable, and overnight, mine adjusted. I was able to practice my routines smoothly, and my body learned how to handle the height. This test made it clear that I needed to practice in the hall a day before the event to help my body acclimate to the new conditions.
My Show ❤️
When we finally arrived at the coast of Walvis Bay, the event had already been set up the day before. The hall’s ceiling was much higher than the tree… easily seven meters! Practicing there was a real challenge, as the slackline was completely unstable and flickered significantly during my routine. Now I understood why circus performers use a pole for stabilization between the pole and the rope – something I had underestimated until then. But I was confident that my body would recalibrate overnight.
And then the big day finally arrived 🙂
My pre-show routine was the same as always: a Monster Energy drink, my supplements, two visualization exercises, and an intense warm-up, especially for my shoulders and back. And then it was time – the moment had arrived, and everything went smoothly. There were two small mistakes, but I was completely in my element performing in front of the audience.
The feeling of being on stage, showcasing my strength and passion, and hearing the roaring applause from the audience was simply indescribable. It’s always such an amazing feeling. At the same time, I realized that I need to become even stronger and more confident performing without the pole. While I can execute strong floor elements, I still don’t feel 100% secure on stage. But the audience celebrates everything you do – that’s what makes it so special. ♥️
Back from Namibia, I’m even more in love with Flying Pole. It brings a whole new wow factor but also requires harder training than the regular pole. I’m always looking forward to learning more, becoming stronger, pushing my limits, and expressing my passions. This performance in Namibia was more than just a show – it was a journey full of challenges, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I’m excited for all that’s yet to come. ❤️
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