Pregnancy and Pole: How to Manage as an Instructor
Michelle Qubrosi
10th May 2024
Teaching pole while pregnant comes with unique challenges and considerations. While pregnancy is an exciting journey, it also brings about significant physical changes that can impact your movement, energy levels, and overall teaching style. As a pole instructor, it’s crucial to understand these changes, adjust your approach accordingly, and ensure both your safety and that of your students.
The Effects of Pregnancy on the Body (and How This Relates to Pole)
During pregnancy, your body undergoes lots of changes that affect strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina. Understanding these changes will help you adapt your teaching approach effectively:
Hormonal Changes
Increased levels of relaxin loosen ligaments and joints, which can lead to instability and a higher risk of injury.
Balance and Coordination
As the baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts, potentially affecting balance and spatial awareness.
Fatigue and Energy Levels
Pregnancy often brings fluctuating energy levels, making it essential to listen to your body and pace yourself.
Core Strength and Engagement
As the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the baby, core strength and control may decrease, impacting movement and stability.
Circulatory and Cardiovascular Adjustments
Blood volume increases during pregnancy, leading to changes in heart rate and circulation, which can affect stamina and endurance.
With these changes in mind, adapting how you teach is crucial to ensuring both your safety and that of your students.
Managing Your Classes as a Pregnant Instructor
If your medical practitioner has given you the all-clear and you are comfortable continuing to teach pole throughout your pregnancy – here are some practical strategies to help you navigate teaching during pregnancy:
- Modify Demonstrations: Instead of physically demonstrating every move, consider using verbal cues, hand gestures, and student demonstrations. This helps reduce strain on your body while still providing effective instruction.
- Use Alternative Teaching Methods: Make use of visual aids such as videos, mirrors, and floor shadowing techniques to help students understand alignment. Encouraging peer learning by having experienced students assist in demonstrating moves can also be beneficial.
- Adjust Your Teaching Style: Be mindful of your energy levels and modify class intensity as needed. Opt for more verbal coaching, slower-paced sessions, and increased rest breaks.
- Prioritise Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs: Ensure warm-ups and cool-downs are well-structured to reduce the risk of injury. You may want to incorporate pregnancy-safe stretches and mobility exercises to keep yourself comfortable.
- Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate with your students about what you can and cannot do. Let them know you may not be demonstrating certain moves and explain why. Setting these expectations early on prevents misunderstandings.
- Listen to Your Body: Pregnancy affects everyone differently. Some days you may feel energetic, while others you may need to take things slow. Honour what your body is telling you and avoid pushing beyond your limits.
Mitigating Risks for Yourself and the Studio
While teaching pole during pregnancy, it’s essential to protect both yourself and the business you work for. Here’s how:
Consult with Your Healthcare Provider
- Before continuing to teach, seek medical advice to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby.
- Be mindful that recommendations may change as your pregnancy progresses.
Update Studio Policies and Insurance
- Ensure that you and your studio have appropriate insurance coverage.
- Studios may need to review liability waivers and policies regarding pregnant instructors.
Have a Plan for Your Maternity Leave
- Determine when you plan to take a break and communicate this to your students and employer.
- If possible, arrange for substitute instructors to maintain class continuity.
Know Your Limits
- Avoid unnecessary risk—pole is a physically demanding discipline, and pregnancy isn’t the time to push boundaries.
- Recognise when to step back from teaching altogether if it becomes too challenging or unsafe.
Embracing the Journey
Teaching pole while pregnant can be an empowering experience, provided you take the necessary precautions and adjustments. By understanding how pregnancy affects your body, modifying your teaching methods, and managing risks effectively, you can continue to inspire and lead your students while prioritising your own well-being.
If you’re a pole instructor looking to deepen your knowledge of safe teaching practices, our 200-hour online pole dance teacher training can provide you with the expertise and confidence to navigate your career at any stage. Click here to learn more!
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