Science of Slink: The Evidence Based Pole Podcast with Dr. Rosy Boa

In this episode, we tackle five prevalent myths in the pole dancing community that can hinder your progress and increase the risk of injury. We delve into the misconception of 'pole every day,' the inefficacy of repetitive trick attempts without variation, the myth of injury-free techniques, and the complexities of flexibility training. Additionally, we address the unrealistic expectation of linear progress in pole dancing. By incorporating scientific research and practical training strategies, we aim to help you train smarter and achieve your pole dancing goals more effectively.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Pole Dance Myths01:16 Myth 1: More Pole Equals Better Performance05:49 Myth 2: Repetition is the Best Way to Learn09:34 Myth 3: Injury Prevention Through Perfect Technique13:13 Myth 4: Flexibility Training Misconceptions17:54 Myth 5: The Illusion of Linear Progress25:44 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCitationsEpisode with Dr. Rob Grey on motor learning research: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/the-science-of-learning-to-move(Load & injuries) Greenspan S, Stuckey MI. Untangling risk factors including discipline-specific exposure for injuries in preprofessional and professional circus artists in the USA. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine. 2023;9:e001551. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001551(PNF is better) Minshull, C., Eston, R., Bailey, A., Rees, D., & Gleeson, N. (2014). The differential effects of PNF versus passive stretch conditioning on neuromuscular performance. European journal of sport science, 14(3), 233-241.(PNF is not better for all groups) Feland, J. B., Myrer, J. W., & Merrill, R. M. (2001). Acute changes in hamstring flexibility: PNF versus static stretch in senior athletes. Physical Therapy in sport, 2(4), 186-193.(PNF makes no difference) Arazi, H., Nia, F., Hakimi, M., & Mohamadi, M. (2012). The effect of PNF stretching combined with a resistance training on strength, muscle volume and flexibility in non-athlete male students. Sport Science, 5(1), 85-90.

This episode discusses how to prepare your body for pole dancing without having access to a pole. Rosy, a certified pole strength and conditioning specialist and online pole dance teacher, shares insights into pole conditioning, differentiates it from cross training, and highlights common mistakes people make. Key points include the importance of periodization, avoiding overtraining, and specifics on various conditioning methods such as resistance training, isometrics, body weight exercises, flexibility training, balance training, and cardio conditioning. Come dance with us! Use code “PODCAST” for $10 off your first month of Essentials of Slink! (Try a month of classes for the cost of a single drop in 👀) https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink-home-pole-membership Citation: Hynes, J., & Turner, Z. (2020). Positive Visualization and Its Effects on Strength Training. Impulse (19343361).00:00 Introduction and Overview00:58 Understanding Conditioning vs. Cross Training02:41 Common Mistakes in Pole Conditioning05:52 Effective Conditioning Techniques11:30 Additional Conditioning Tips and Conclusion

Use code “PODCAST” for $10 off your first month of Essentials of Slink! (Try a month of classes for the cost of a single drop in 👀) https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink-home-pole-membership In this episode, we explore the concept of 'listening to your body' and its significance, especially for pole dancers. The discussion covers the senses of proprioception (body's position in space) and interoception (internal body signals), and how understanding these can improve both dance and daily life. Research on perceptual learning reveals that improving proprioception through focused training, even in neurodivergent individuals, is both possible and beneficial. Practical tips include balance training, tactile feedback, and removing visual inputs to enhance proprioceptive acuity. Additionally, members and listeners are thanked for their support, with details on joining online classes provided.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Listening to Your Body01:34 Understanding Body Signals: Interoception and Proprioception06:08 The Role of Neurodivergence and Hypermobility07:26 Perceptual Learning: Enhancing Body Awareness12:00 Practical Tips for Improving Proprioception18:54 Conclusion and Class InformationLearn more about the vestibular system & balance: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/how-to-do-spin-pole-without-getting-dizzyCitations:Aman, J. E., Elangovan, N., Yeh, I. L., & Konczak, J. (2015). The effectiveness of proprioceptive training for improving motor function: a systematic review. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 8, 1075.Godde, B., Stauffenberg, B., Spengler, F., & Dinse, H. R. (2000). Tactile coactivation-induced changes in spatial discrimination performance. Journal of Neuroscience, 20(4), 1597-1604.Gibson, E. J., & Walk, R. D. (1960). The" visual cliff". Scientific American, 202(4), 64-71.Kapp, S. K. (2025). Sensory–movement underpinnings of lifelong neurodivergence: getting a grip on autism. Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience, 19, 1489322.

In this episode of the Science of Slink podcast, Rosy is joined by Dr. Drew Best (@shreddy_professor), an assistant professor of biology at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Dr. Best specializes in the study of human sweating. Together, they explore the evolutionary history, biological mechanisms, and practical aspects of sweating, especially in relation to physical activities like pole dancing. They discuss the differences between eccrine and apocrine sweat glands, how humans have adapted to high heat environments, and the genetic and acclimatization factors that influence sweating. Dr. Best offers practical tips for managing excessive sweating, including pre-cooling methods and the use of antiperspirants. The episode underscores the importance of movement in human evolution and biology, making it a must-listen for both fitness enthusiasts and anyone interested in the science behind sweating.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:25 Exciting Announcement: Essentials of Slink Membership01:38 Meet Dr. Drew Best: The Science of Sweating03:14 The Evolution and Function of Sweat Glands11:30 Human Adaptations to Heat and Sweating17:23 Practical Tips for Training in the Heat18:22 Optimizing Recovery in Hot Environments18:51 The Role of Electrolytes and Sports Beverages20:08 Understanding Sweat Loss and Sodium Replacement22:57 Dietary Influences on Sweating26:11 Individual Variation in Sweating28:19 Managing Excessive Sweating33:45 The Uniqueness of Human Sweating35:19 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionLinks:Join Essentials of Slink now! Use code “ESSENTIALFOUNDER” for a $5 off discount for the life of your membership (expires Sept 1 2025) https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink-home-pole-membership Dr. Best’s Google scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=ViuK774AAAAJ

In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa addresses common misconceptions about the role of the Latissimus Dorsi (lats) muscles in pole dancing. She explains the anatomy and function of the lats, debunks myths about their role in overhead movements, and offers tips on when and how to effectively train these muscles. Essential for pole dancers, the episode also covers related topics like muscle contraction, scapula stabilization, and potential causes of pain from tight lats. Dr. Boa recommends resources and exercises for better shoulder mechanics and performance in pole dancing.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:14 Common Misconceptions About Lats01:52 Understanding Muscle Function03:15 Anatomy of the Lats05:50 Lats in Pole Dancing07:36 Scapula Mechanics and Misconceptions11:03 Training and Flexibility Recommendations15:18 Conclusion and Further ReadingCitations: Bhatt CR, Prajapati B, Patil DS, Patel VD, Singh BG, Mehta CD. Variation in the insertion of the latissimus dorsi & its clinical importance. J Orthop. 2013 Mar 7;10(1):25-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jor.2013.01.002. PMID: 24403744; PMCID: PMC3768243.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3768243/ Miniato MA, Mudreac A, Borger J. Anatomy, Thorax, Scapula. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538319/Paksoy, A., Akgün, D., Gebauer, H., Karczewski, D., Lacheta, L., Tokish, J. M., ... & Moroder, P. (2024). The latissimus dorsi creates a dynamic track for the inferior angle of the scapula during arm abduction in humans. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 19(1), 193.Pouliart N, Gagey O. Significance of the latissimus dorsi for shoulder instability. I. Variations in its anatomy around the humerus and scapula. Clin Anat. 2005 Oct;18(7):493-9. doi: 10.1002/ca.20185. PMID: 16092134.Links:Learn more about join the Science of Slink membership www.scienceofslink.comJoin the Essentials of Slink waitlist! https://mailchi.mp/slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slinkUse the code “TURNINGTHREE” for 25% off any drop in class: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/online-pole-dancing-classes-sign-up

In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa delves into what every pole dancer should know about exercising in extreme heat. Key topics include the physiological adaptations to heat acclimatization that typically occur within two weeks, the symptoms and handling of heat exhaustion versus heat stroke, and specific risk factors such as dehydration and medications. She also shares practical tips for pole dancers, such as managing equipment and grip issues, staying hydrated, and taking frequent breaks to avoid heat-related illnesses. Emphasis is placed on listening to one's body, recognizing the varied individual responses to heat, and prioritizing safety over performance.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:45 The Science of Sweating02:54 Heat Acclimatization in Athletes06:52 Physiological Adaptations to Heat11:27 Recognizing and Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke18:06 Risk Factors for Heat-Related Illnesses24:34 Pole Dancing in Hot Conditions29:52 Final Tips and RecommendationsCitations/further reading:Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, April 6). Heat exhaustion. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250Howe, A. S., & Boden, B. P. (2007). Heat-related illness in athletes. The American journal of sports medicine, 35(8), 1384-1395.Nobel, G., Tribukait, A., Mekjavic, I. B., & Eiken, O. (2012). Effects of motion sickness on thermoregulatory responses in a thermoneutral air environment. European journal of applied physiology, 112, 1717-1723.Périard, J. D., Racinais, S., & Sawka, M. N. (2015). Adaptations and mechanisms of human heat acclimation: applications for competitive athletes and sports. Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports, 25, 20-38.Sawka, M. N., Leon, L. R., Montain, S. J., & Sonna, L. A. (2011). Integrated physiological mechanisms of exercise performance, adaptation, and maladaptation to heat stress. Compr Physiol, 1(4), 1883-1928.

In this episode of the Science of Slink podcast, Dr. Rosy Boa explores the question, 'What is the hardest pole dance move?' She explains that the answer depends on various factors such as individual physiology, training background, and specific adaptations. Dr. Boa discusses different challenging pole moves categorized by flexibility, strength, and athleticism, emphasizing the importance of specialized training. She also offers insights for hobbyist pole dancers on achieving impressive performances without extreme movements, and provides encouragement for those pursuing advanced techniques.Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true Citations:Hawley, J. A. (2002). Adaptations of skeletal muscle to prolonged, intense endurance training. Clinical and experimental pharmacology and physiology, 29(3), 218-222.Izquierdo, M., Häkkinen, K., Gonzalez-Badillo, J. J., Ibanez, J., & Gorostiaga, E. M. (2002). Effects of long-term training specificity on maximal strength and power of the upper and lower extremities in athletes from different sports. European journal of applied physiology, 87, 264-271.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Science of Slink00:19 What is the Hardest Move in Pole Dance?01:17 Specificity of Training and Adaptation05:33 Flexibility moves08:26 Strength moves10:51 Power moves14:12 Impressive (but not necessarily difficult) moves for Performances16:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement