by Kelsey Winters

Created on: September 03, 2009

It's that time of year again. Those lazy summer days are coming to an end and the kids (and teachers) have to go back to school. Not only that, but it's the time of year where people realize, "Oh wow... I guess I didn't get much exercise lounging around on the couch all day watching daytime television. Well, this extra five pounds isn't too noticeable, right?" Of course, once the kids are back in school and a normal routine is established once again, we begin to realize... we need to go back to the gym (hey, don't blame us for skipping out of the gym this summer! It was our vacation... and we were gone a lot... and it's always too hot in there... and I needed to watch my talk shows...).

I will be the first to admit it: I HATE going to the gym! I don't enjoy changing into workout clothes, searching for clean socks, and driving all the way to the gym. I don't have much fun sweating myself silly in a room with large, bodybuilder-esque men. I hate the monotony of using the same machines over and over again, and I don't have the money to hire a personal trainer to make it "fun" for me.

So what's a woman got to do to get fit around here?
Two words: pole dancing.

Now, I'm sure that when I mentioned pole dancing, you immediately thought of skinny little women in skimpy outfits twirling around a pole in clubs you don't want to admit to knowing about. But you know what? That's not what pole dancing really is. Yes, it is used to arouse certain primal feelings in men, but it's also used as an art form, a beautiful type of dance, and, most importantly to this article, an enjoyable way of getting in shape.

Pole dancing is no longer viewed a despicable activity, at least not by many. Its popularity as a quick, fun, and somewhat erotic form of fitness is growing nation-wide. Many larger cities have pole dance clubs, and a growing number of health clubs offer some sort of aerobic pole dance class. But don't fret! If you can't find a class near you (or you're not comfortable swinging around a pole in front of a group of strangers), you can learn in your very own home.

Portable pole dance poles (and permanent ones, for those who are really dedicated) can be found with a simple internet search. Yes, they seem a bit pricey, starting at about $200 new, but in the long run, it can be cheaper than learning in a group setting. You won't have any monthly dues to pay, you don't have to waste gas driving anywhere, and you can practice at any time - without trying to conform to hectic gym

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