Skip to main content

IPSF

In early 2019, I discovered the IPSF. This was a huge event in my pole journey, and one that has helped me to focus and develop my own practice. The IPSF is a highly structured organisation (which suits me down to the ground :-)), that has already encouraged federations to be opened in 30-40 countries worldwide. Their aim is to bring Pole Sports to the Olympics, and it is not an empty goal; they are actively working towards this aim and taking the appropriate steps, one by one.

Pole Sports within the International Pole Sports Federation, adheres to a 150-page code of points, for which I have already passed an exam to attest to my knowledge. Competition participants must demonstrate strength, flexibility and the ability to perform spins on both the static and spinning pole. The rules provide a structure to preparing for a competiton and an important point of reference; on the other hand the realisation of a competition routine can be tricky when trying to adhere to all the rules! This calls to my logical and strategic way of thinking and I personally enjoy this part of the challenge!

Taking part in last year's competitions was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. Following my surprisingly good score at the qualifying competition in the Netherlands, I decided to take up my place at the world championships in Montreal, as missing out didn't feel like an option! I was overawed by the talent I was able to witness on stage in Montreal and rubbing shoulders with athletes from around the world was incredibly exciting. I made friends with athletes from other countries and the mutual support in the air was felt by all. The organisers did an unbelievably amazing job at pulling off such a huge event, whilst staying cheerful and helping to maintain the high spirits and camaraderie between the participants and officials. I realised that I wanted to belong here and would work hard to ensure I could come back and do this all again.

In 2021, I plan to retake the code of points exam, as well as the necessary exams to become a registered IPSF coach. I want to remain a part of this universe as long as I can :-).


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Discovering the world of PSO

Not one to dwell too long on my disappointment (see my posts about IPSF and the decision to cancel/postpone the 2020 season), I felt the need to refocus my training efforts. I had already looked into the PSO (Pole Sports Organization) in the past, but hadn't wanted to add pressure to my IPSF preparation timeline with a second competition. The PSO exists mainly in the States and serves as a national competition, complete with a final. In Europe, it is also possible to take part in competitions, but each one is a stand-alone entity. Like the IPSF, there is an age category for me (over 40), which is an important consideration. There were a few competitions in Europe coming up: Lausanne in July, which I felt was a bit soon to be sure that it would be held. Then Lisbon in September and Manchester in October. I went for Manchester, as I know it is an easy journey from Brussels and I wanted to experience a competition in the UK. The next task in the application process is choosing a c...
Post a Comment
Read more

First online class

I've arrived a little late at the party on this one :-). Many online live classes have already launched in the past few weeks, as well as a wealth of resources for learning pole from home. However, ill for the first two weeks of lockdown and recovering the third, I took a little more time to get there and I am grateful to my students for their patience! Yesterday, I got to teach my regular Sunday class, from my own living room! I thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with this group and we had a lot of fun. The difficulties included finding the right distance away from my computer when demonstrating, to be in full view, but audible, as well as making sure the participants muted their mics to avoid background noice and echo. For next time, I want to try to find a setup using a better camera and I might use my Britney mic if necessary. Surprisingly though, the class went very smoothly. I gave explanations and demonstrations for each move or combo and then watched my screen as the girls t...
Post a Comment
Read more