Pointy Toes Issue

Not really a pole fitness progress post, but rather something that's constantly bothering me.

Pointy toes, or more likely their absence. You watch somebody doing a fantastic, difficult combo or a pretty spin, thinking how awesome it looks... and then you see them, slack flexed feet (sad face). I usually completely lose interest after I notice those naughty feet more than once, or hate myself for not looking after mine. The thing is, no matter how great the move is, if you don't keep an eye on your toes, the whole look is ruined.

It's also good to remember that most of the judges at the comps have some sort of gymnastics or ballet background, and they do notice those things. But even if you're not competing, paying attention to what your feet are doing is important. It is easy to get carried away during your practice session and completely forget about your toes, while focusing on a new difficult trick. However, pointy toes is a great part of a successful move. Thinking about all those hours spent in a studio, nailing that one perfect combo, but ending up with something that doesn't look quite right is really frustrating. 

My problem is not pointing my feet in a right manner. The toes are pointed, but the feet  are turned inwards. That can happen a lot and because of the pointy toes, you feel like all is under control, while in reality, your feet look funny. Another problem that pole dancers may experience is pointing the toes, but leaving the feet flexed, or the other way round. Our brain deceives us into believing perfect form is achieved. The hardest part is to start paying attention to what your feet are doing even while performing a move you've nailed during your first beginners class.

I find that the best way to take control over your "lazy feet" is to always point your toes during practice session. Climbing the pole? - point your toes. Doing a warm up? - point your toes (where possible). It may sound a bit silly, but it'll train you to the point, where you do it automatically. You may say: I'll always have time to point my toes while learning a new combo, no need to torture myself while stretching or warming up. It may work just fine for some pole dancers, but not everyone. I tend to regard pointy toes as a separate move, and an easy one as well, that needs to be perfect every time I do it.

That's pretty much it :) Remember to always point your toes!