Back: Fawnia Mondey, Sharon Polskey, Clive Coote (of X-Pole), Estee Zakar; Front: Stacey Pope, Kimara and Heydi (of X-Pole)

How did you get started pole dancing?

I started pole dancing in January 2005 when my sister opened her school. I had watched her for years flying round a pole and always loved it.  Back then there were not many pole classes, and certainly none in my area, so my sister started her school and I started taking classes with her. I did two hours straight and couldn’t move for nearly three days.  I loved it so much I carried on….  In Septemeber 2005, I started with X-pole as the sales manager and never looked back. 

As a rep for X-Pole Vertical Leisure, what questions do you get asked the most?

Not so funny ones: 
Where local schools are,  recommendations, etc. 
The best mats, grip, best size pole.

Funny ones: 
Does the joist come with the pole? 
Do you come included to install it and check it once a week?
Which way is clockwise?
Lost in translation (what’s a spanner? ) .
What’s the difference between static and spinning?
Do I need a 45mm or a 50mm?
How big are my hands?
What’s an adjuster?

What do you wish more pole dancers understood about poles?

How to measure a ceiling!   Quote:  My ceiling is 116 inches and it’s not tall enough with the pieces you’ve sent me.  Oh, yes, sorry!  It’s 11 feet 6.

Also, the difference between a 45mm and a 50mm  :)  And how to read instructions!  LOL. I think, for me, personally, it has to be how to look after them.  It’s a great bit of kit, but still needs some pole love. 

What are the differences between the different types of X-Poles? What is each best suited for?

We have four main poles and a Stage XP050CR.

Standard 50mm Chrome  - The standard 50mm chrome pole is best suited to a beginner with normal size hands.  Also, dancers who are used to the old 55mm. 

XP045CR – 45mm Chrome - Smaller diameter for the ladies with smaller hands and those who struggle with tricks on the 50mm. 

XP045TG and 50TG (45mm and 50mm Titanium Gold) – Suited for the ladies who have sweaty hands and suffer from perspiring when pole dancing.  Also recommended for hot countries.  :)

X-Stage – Recommended for performances in clubs, venues, etc.  Also for ceilings higher than three meters. 

Favourite makeup tip:

I’m rubbish with makeup.  Sorry!  LOL. 

Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?

Ooohhh what a choice! Depends on my mood, really.  I own lots of trainers, however I teach barefoot.  But I also own over 20 pairs of heels.  :)

Favourite grip enhancer:

Mighty Grip or Gorilla Grip.

Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:

Angel  and straight edge … 

Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:

A hot bath and Arnica tablets. 

Who would you most like to have in the audience when you pole dance?

Ooo – probably my boss and my sister, Kelly. They have never seen me dance.  :) 

Who is your hero or role model?

Ooohhh! Pole Heros: Fawnia Monday, Annie Norris, Felix and my new one is MPD Russia, but I don’t know her name. Oh and Faye Famous – that girl is LUSH…  

Role Models: my boss, Clive.  He is a very clever man.

What are your favourite words of encouragement?

If I can do it, anyone can!  :)  I always encourage my girls and anyone I talk to,  as anyone who poles deserves respect. 

Favorite pizza toppings:

Ham and pineapple.

Cupcakes or ice cream?

Cupcakes.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Poling for me has changed my life.  Working in the industry, dancing, teaching and working for X-Pole.  I have travelled around the world, thanks to Vertical Leisure and X-Pole, and have met some amazing women…

I think I am well and truly hooked by now.

Get in touch with Stacey Pope for all your X-Pole questions, or click to buy an X-Pole.

You should also check out this great interview with Estee Zakar, X-Pole rep and pole dance instructor.