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

In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa explains how often and how intensely recreational adult pole dancers should practice based on findings from exercise science. Dr. Boa shares the American College of Sports Medicine's guidelines for aerobic physical activity, which recommend either 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise spread over five days or 60 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise across three days weekly. She discusses the importance of balancing exercise with proper rest and recovery and emphasizes that even short, less than 10-minute sessions can provide significant health benefits. Lastly, Dr. Boa introduces her Science of Slink membership options for those interested in structured, evidence-based pole dance training. 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 Exercise Science for Pole Dancers 01:00 Membership Options and Podcast Shoutout 01:35 Caveats and Target Audience 02:41 Top Line Recommendations for Pole Dance Frequency 03:49 Understanding Exercise Intensity 04:53 Practical Tips for Monitoring Intensity 07:52 Importance of Rest and Recovery 09:20 Cognitive Benefits of Physical Activity 10:38 Consistency and Habit Formation 12:37 Final Recommendations and Conclusion Citations:  Erickson, K. I., Hillman, C., Stillman, C. M., Ballard, R. M., Bloodgood, B., Conroy, D. E., ... & Powell, K. E. (2019). Physical activity, cognition, and brain outcomes: a review of the 2018 physical activity guidelines. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 51(6), 1242. Haskell, W. L., Lee, I. M., Pate, R. R., Powell, K. E., Blair, S. N., Franklin, B. A., ... & Bauman, A. (2007). Physical activity and public health: updated recommendation for adults from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association. Circulation, 116(9), 1081. Jakicic, J. M., Kraus, W. E., Powell, K. E., Campbell, W. W., Janz, K. F., Troiano, R. P., ... & 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee. (2019). Association between bout duration of physical activity and health: systematic review. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 51(6), 1213. Kaushal, N., & Rhodes, R. E. (2015). Exercise habit formation in new gym members: a longitudinal study. Journal of behavioral medicine, 38(4), 652-663.

In this episode of Science of Slink, Dr. Rosy Boa shares vital lessons she wishes she had learned earlier in her 14-year pole dancing journey. Covering exercise science fundamentals, recognizing when a space isn’t right for you, and the perils of diet culture and disordered eating, Dr. Boa offers practical advice and reflections aimed at helping fellow pole dancers avoid common pitfalls. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of a healthy relationship with food and the benefits of understanding exercise science principles. Dr. Boa encourages listeners to contribute their own lessons and insights while promoting her online pole studio for further learning and community support. 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 Citation for perfectionism & orthorexia: Oberle CD, Samaghabadi RO, Hughes EM. Orthorexia nervosa: Assessment and correlates with gender, BMI, and personality. Appetite. 2017 Jan 1;108:303-310. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2016.10.021. Epub 2016 Oct 15. PMID: 27756637. Timestamps00:00 Welcome to Science of Slink 00:57 My Pole Dancing Journey Begins 02:06 Discovering Exercise Science 05:29 Finding the Right Space for You 08:57 Understanding Diet Culture and Disordered Eating 13:31 Final Thoughts and Advice

5-Day Evidence-Based Pole Reset starts January 12th! Ready to fall back in love with pole dance? Join us for five days to relight your pole spark (with science! 👩‍🔬): https://slinkers-circle.mn.co/plans/1935979?bundle_token=34f7e8f7c209c0d5c1a1667812b4c96a In this episode of Science of Slink, host Dr. Rosy Boa addresses home pole dancers who wish their home pole time felt better. She provides evidence-based tips and tricks to enhance enjoyment and reduce friction for pole practice. Dr. Boa emphasizes the importance of removing physical and psychological barriers, embracing imperfection, injecting more pleasure into pole sessions, and being realistic about personal capacity and values. She also discusses the upcoming 5-day evidence-based pole reset program beginning January 12, 2026, designed to help pole dancers reflect and improve their practice. The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of balancing pole dance with other life priorities. Chatpers: 00:00 Welcome to the Science of Slink Podcast 00:49 Introduction to the Five-Day Pole Reset 02:00 Tips to Enhance Your Home Pole Experience 02:13 Removing Friction: Making Pole Time Easier 07:44 Embrace Imperfection: Do It Badly 11:32 Incorporate Pleasure into Your Practice 18:29 Understanding Your Capacity and Priorities 23:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Citations/Further reading: Beshears J, Kosowsky H. Nudging: Progress to date and future directions. Organ Behav Hum Decis Process. 2020 Nov;161(Suppl):3-19. doi: 10.1016/j.obhdp.2020.09.001. Epub 2020 Dec 10. PMID: 33716395; PMCID: PMC7946162. Lurquin, J. H., & Miyake, A. (2017). Challenges to ego-depletion research go beyond the replication crisis: A need for tackling the conceptual crisis. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, Article 568. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00568 Crocker J, Olivier MA, Nuer N. Self-Image Goals and Compassionate Goals: Costs and Benefits. Self Identity. 2009 Apr 16;8(2-3):251-269. doi: 10.1080/15298860802505160. PMID: 21218194; PMCID: PMC3017354. Irwin, B.C., Scorniaenchi, J., Kerr, N.L. et al. Aerobic Exercise Is Promoted when Individual Performance Affects the Group: A Test of the Kohler Motivation Gain Effect. ann. behav. med. 44, 151–159 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-012-9367-4  Decker, E. S., & Ekkekakis, P. (2017). More efficient, perhaps, but at what price? Pleasure and enjoyment responses to high-intensity interval exercise in low-active women with obesity. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 28, 1-10. Ekkekakis, P. (2003). Pleasure and displeasure from the body: Perspectives from exercise. Cognition and emotion, 17(2), 213-239. Hill, A. P., Mallinson-Howard, S. H., & Jowett, G. E. (2018). Multidimensional perfectionism in sport: A meta-analytical review. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology, 7(3), 235.

In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' host Dr. Rosy Boa speaks with Sarah, known as Madame Daddy, about her journey into freestyle pole dancing. Starting with extensive dance experience in partner dancing such as Swing and Lindy Hop, Sarah found her passion in pole dancing in 2019. The conversation explores the transition from focusing on tricks to finding freedom in movement through freestyle. Topics include the importance of self-expression, autonomy in dance, and the unique, supportive nature of the pole dancing community. Sarah shares her experiences, advice for newcomers, and the significance of feedback and community support. Both Sarah and Dr. Rosy emphasize the value of experimentation, rest, and self-care in a dance practice, offering insights and inspiration for both new and experienced dancers. 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 Welcome 00:44 Meet Sarah AKA Madame Daddy 01:16 Sarah's Freestyle Journey 03:39 The Art of Freestyling 11:20 Advice for New Freestylers 19:38 The Importance of Community and Feedback 22:56 Rest and Recovery in Pole Dancing 24:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Science of Slink, the Evidence-based pole podcast,' the host welcomes Falcon, a seasoned dancer and fellow studio member, to discuss their experiences and insights into freestyle pole dancing. Falcon shares challenges faced transitioning from structured choreography to the fluidity of freestyle, emphasizing the importance of letting go of perfectionism and the rigidity of pre-determined movements. The conversation also highlights how dancing to unfamiliar music can ease the pressure of hitting precise beats and offer freedom in movement. Falcon’s journey illustrates the value of experimentation, playful movements, and embracing the unexpected in dance. 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 the Podcast 01:00 Meet Falcon: A Journey into Freestyle 01:57 Challenges and Struggles in Freestyle 04:52 Overcoming Perfectionism 06:57 The Joy of Freestyle 13:15 Advice for Freestyle Beginners 15:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Science of Slink: The Evidence-Based Pole Podcast,' host Dr. Rosy Boa interviews Roz 'The Diva' Mays about her extensive journey in the pole fitness community. Roz shares her personal experiences of starting pole dancing 18 years ago, her evolution into teaching, and her dedication to promoting body positivity and inclusivity in fitness. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of teaching plus-size students, navigating goal-setting without focusing on weight loss, and the importance of finding joy in physical activities. Roz also offers insights into mastering the basic invert move in pole dancing and invites listeners to connect with her online for further guidance and inspiration. 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  Where to find Roz: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rozthediva/ Website (& newsletter signup): https://www.rozthediva.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:36 Roz the Diva's Pole Journey 02:16 Challenges and Triumphs in Fitness 04:08 Creating Inclusive Fitness Spaces 06:01 Teaching and Impacting Lives 21:23 Mental Health and Pole Dancing 26:37 Setting Goals Beyond Weight Loss 31:51 Tips for Inverting in Pole 34:31 Conclusion and Where to Find Roz

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 Myths 01:16 Myth 1: More Pole Equals Better Performance 05:49 Myth 2: Repetition is the Best Way to Learn 09:34 Myth 3: Injury Prevention Through Perfect Technique 13:13 Myth 4: Flexibility Training Misconceptions 17:54 Myth 5: The Illusion of Linear Progress 25:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Citations Episode 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 of Science of Slink: The Evidence-Based Pole Podcast features an engaging discussion with dance scientist Claire Farmer, who is currently working on her PhD in the biomechanics of dance. The conversation delves into her book, 'The Female Dancer: A Soma Scientific Approach,' which brings together research authors on topics ranging from hormone effects on dancers to gender dynamics in dance spaces. Claire and Rosy explore the importance of both scientific and somatic approaches to understanding dance, the misconceptions around strength training for dancers, and the societal and cultural factors affecting training and participation in dance. Links:  Claire’s instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancesci_claire/ Claire’s website: https://www.clairefarmer.co.uk/ Find the book: https://www.routledge.com/The-Female-Dancer-a-soma-scientific-approach/Farmer-Kindred/p/book/9781032466897 The 'Female' Dancer Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2tuGJmkLEOrjvstw1tELQn Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:03 Claire Farmer's Background and Research Focus 02:28 Discussion on Female Dancer Health and Hormones 07:15 Gender Dynamics in Dance and Pole 14:11 Strength Training for Dancers and Circus Artists 18:43 Building Confidence Through Strength Training 22:22 The Importance of Progressive Overload 25:06 Efficient Workouts and Microdosing Exercise 27:34 Understanding Soma Scientific 31:56 Exploring Somatic Practices and Lived Experiences 36:54 Conclusion and Further Resources

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 Overview 00:58 Understanding Conditioning vs. Cross Training 02:41 Common Mistakes in Pole Conditioning 05:52 Effective Conditioning Techniques 11:30 Additional Conditioning Tips and Conclusion

In this episode of the Evidence-Based Pole Podcast, the host delves into the concept of capacity, discussing its importance in pole dancing and life in general. The episode covers physical capacity, emotional well-being, and the impact of holistic stress on one's ability to perform and enjoy activities like pole dancing. What to join us for an online class? Use the 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://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true  00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:32 Shoutout to Members and Community 01:12 Mental Health and Self-Care Strategies 03:09 The Pyramid of Pole: Capacity, Technique, and Artistry 05:52 Building Physical and Emotional Capacity 07:59 Fitness and Movement Requirements 12:08 Rest and Recovery: Beyond Sleep 16:49 Balancing Life and Pole Dance 18:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Citations Nagoski, E., & Amelia Nagoski, D. M. A. (2019). Burnout: The secret to unlocking the stress cycle. Ballantine Books. Bukhave, E. B., Creek, J., Linstad, A. K., & Frandsen, T. F. (2025). The effects of crafts‐based interventions on mental health and well‐being: A systematic review. Australian occupational therapy journal, 72(1), e70001. Related episodes:  Kinds of fitness: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/does-pole-dance-make-you-stronger Exercise science basics: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/5-exercise-science-insights-every-pole-dancer-should-know-100424 

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 Body 01:34 Understanding Body Signals: Interoception and Proprioception 06:08 The Role of Neurodivergence and Hypermobility 07:26 Perceptual Learning: Enhancing Body Awareness 12:00 Practical Tips for Improving Proprioception 18:54 Conclusion and Class Information Learn more about the vestibular system & balance: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/how-to-do-spin-pole-without-getting-dizzy Citations: 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 'Science of Slink,' Dr. Rosy Boa revisits a previously aired discussion focused on the negative impacts of perfectionism, particularly in dance and movement. Dr. Boa highlights her personal journey of recognizing exhaustion and avoiding burnout, using it as a teaching moment for her audience. The episode delves into the definition and harmful effects of perfectionism, drawing from psychological research and personal anecdotes. Listeners are encouraged to be aware of perfectionistic tendencies and seek professional help if necessary. Tips for finding enjoyment in movement and restructuring goals to foster a healthier mindset are also provided. The episode stresses the importance of mental health and self-compassion in achieving sustainable, lifelong movement. 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 Context 01:27 Thanking the Members 02:13 Perfectionism: An Overview 03:30 The Psychological Impact of Perfectionism 05:28 Perfectionism in Dance and Movement 18:22 Strategies to Combat Perfectionism 27:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Sources:  -Frost, R. O., Marten, P., Lahart, C., & Rosenblate, R. (1990). The dimensions of perfectionism. Cognitive therapy and research, 14, 449-468. -Further reading: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/ba... -"Canadian prima ballerina Karen Kain acknowledged that perfectionism meant that she enjoyed a very small percentage of her more than 10,000 professional performances" Flett et al 2014 -Hill, A. P., Mallinson-Howard, S. H., & Jowett, G. E. (2018). Multidimensional perfectionism in sport: A meta-analytical review. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology, 7(3), 235. -Hall, H. K., & Hill, A. P. (2012). Perfectionism, dysfunctional achievement striving and burnout in aspiring athletes: The motivational implications for performing artists. Theatre, Dance and Performance Training, 3(2), 216-228. -Flett, G. L., & Hewitt, P. L. (2014). The perils of perfectionism in sports” revisited: Toward a broader understanding of the pressure to be perfect and its impact on athletes and dancers. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 45(4), 395-407. Learn more about my memberships! Essentials of Slink: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink-home-pole-membership Science of Slink: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-home-pole-membership Not sure if you’d be a good fit? Take this quiz! https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/online-pole-membership

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 Overview 00:25 Exciting Announcement: Essentials of Slink Membership 01:38 Meet Dr. Drew Best: The Science of Sweating 03:14 The Evolution and Function of Sweat Glands 11:30 Human Adaptations to Heat and Sweating 17:23 Practical Tips for Training in the Heat 18:22 Optimizing Recovery in Hot Environments 18:51 The Role of Electrolytes and Sports Beverages 20:08 Understanding Sweat Loss and Sodium Replacement 22:57 Dietary Influences on Sweating 26:11 Individual Variation in Sweating 28:19 Managing Excessive Sweating 33:45 The Uniqueness of Human Sweating 35:19 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links: 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

Join the Essentials of Slink waitlist: https://mailchi.mp/slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink  In this episode of the Science of Slink podcast, host Dr. Rosy Boa engages in an enlightening conversation with researcher and pole dancer Nadia Ahadi (@psychpoleogy on IG) from the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne. They delve into Nadia's recent qualitative study on body image among competitive women pole dancers, discussing key findings such as the emphasis on body functionality over appearance, the sense of community within the competitive pole space, and the role of autonomy and self-expression in empowerment. The episode also touches on the challenges of standardizing skill levels in pole dance, the complexities of body comparisons, and the impact of competition environments on body image. Nadia's insights draw from her own experiences as a pole dancer and her academic work at the University of Melbourne. 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 Overview 00:23 New Membership Announcement: Essentials of Slink 02:11 Introducing Nadia Ahadi and Her Research 02:42 Nadia's Background in Pole Dancing and Research 05:12 Exploring the Competitive Pole Dance Scene in Australia 10:23 Research Methodologies and Theoretical Frameworks 22:13 Key Findings: Body Functionality and Community Support 37:46 Empowerment Through Autonomy and Personal Agency 44:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 Overview 01:14 Common Misconceptions About Lats 01:52 Understanding Muscle Function 03:15 Anatomy of the Lats 05:50 Lats in Pole Dancing 07:36 Scapula Mechanics and Misconceptions 11:03 Training and Flexibility Recommendations 15:18 Conclusion and Further Reading Citations:  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.com Join the Essentials of Slink waitlist! https://mailchi.mp/slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink Use the code “TURNINGTHREE” for 25% off any drop in class: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/online-pole-dancing-classes-sign-up