Platform Strip Pole Safety

A platform strip pole allows you to practice or perform almost anywhere. While not the only type of pole that opens up more location possibilities (did you know you can now buy a wake pole for your boat?) a platform pole is definitely one of the most versatile.

My Homemade Platform Pole

But this type of setup also presents some unique safety issues to manage. Here's what you need to know if you're considering buying or making a platform dance pole:

Because you'll be dancing on a raised platform, falls are even more of a concern than normal.

Not only are you farther away from the ground, but there are also the edges of your platform to be concerned about.

I once lost my grip while inverted on my platform pole (that's it in the photo) and even though I slid only a short distance, I managed to break a bone in my foot.

I cracked it on the edge of the plywood base as I tried to come out of the inversion before I landed on my head. Ouch!

Personally, I don't recommend using a platform strip pole until you've had lots of experience and feel very comfortable with spins and tricks.

Another safety issue to be aware of is that unless your platform base is weighted, it can lift off the ground.

This is especially true when some of the more advanced tricks and spins are performed.

With my round base in particular, this conjures up images of a runaway platform rolling out of control down the aisles of a trade show...definitely NOT sexy!

Once again, be sure you have a solid base of pole dancing experience before you start using a platform pole, and then make sure you use caution as you learn about how your particular setup reacts to the laws of physics.

You will probably experience some lifting of the base if it's unweighted, but with practice you'll learn to control your momentum and keep it within safe limits.

X-Pole has a very nice platform pole called the X-Stage. You can also get an X-Stage Lite, which has a base that's only 4" high. Both models pack up into a wheeled case for easy transport. The base has soft, rounded edges and comes standard with a rotating option (see photo below).

Another important safety consideration is in the moving and assembly of your equipment. Some, like my homemade setup, have to be moved in one piece and can be heavy. In this case, you'll want to make sure you have at least one helper when moving it from place to place.

Remember to use basic lifting safety...use your knees, not your back, and make sure you have enough help so that no one is lifting more than they can reasonably handle.

X-Pole Platform Pole

As well, keep in mind that you'll be re-assembling your dance pole each time you use it, so it's important not to get complacent with safety.

Be sure you test all the connections, bolts and fasteners thoroughly to be sure they're tight and secure before you start dancing.

And finally, remember that if you plan to use your platform pole for teaching, most of these risks apply to your students as well.

I have a safety policy that anyone who touches my platform pole at a trade show (I only use it for this purpose) does so only with my permission and only under my direct supervision.

I don't allow people to try anything other than very basic moves, and definitely no spins or tricks. A platform pole is a great promotional tool, but the risk of injury is higher for the reasons I've outlined above, so I'm extra cautious when allowing members of the public to use mine.

Safety Recap - Platform Dance Poles

• Ensure your platform pole is assembled correctly and safely each time you use it

• When performing advanced moves, you may wish to weight the pole for extra security

• Because of the raised platform on most models, be extra careful as falls can be that much more painful

• Platform poles are not recommended for beginners, and it's a good rule to allow others to use your platform strip pole only under your direct supervision

• If using a heavy, one-piece base, be sure you have enough help when moving it so no one gets injured