Pole dancing is a captivating art that combines strength, sensuality, and self-expression. And for those who love adding an extra touch of glamour and flair to their routines, dancing in heels is a thrilling choice. However, breaking in new heels for pole dancing requires a bit of patience and technique to ensure comfort and confidence in your performances. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of breaking in your new heels and stepping onto the pole with grace and confidence.
Why Breaking in Heels Matters:
New heels can be stiff and uncomfortable, leading to blisters, pinching, and restricted movement. Breaking in your heels allows the materials to soften, adapt to your foot shape, and provide the flexibility needed for fluid pole dancing movements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Break in New Heels:
- Choose the Right Size: Ensure that your heels fit comfortably. They should be snug enough to stay in place but not so tight that they cause discomfort or restrict blood circulation.
- Remove Stickers and Protective Films: Don’t forget to peel off any stickers, labels, or protective films from the bottoms of your heels. These can hinder your grip on the pole and affect your balance.
- Wear Thick Socks: Put on a pair of thick socks and slip your feet into the heels. This gently stretches the shoe material and prevents excessive rubbing against your skin.
- Use a Hairdryer: Apply low heat using a hairdryer to the stiff parts of the heels. Keep the dryer moving to prevent overheating and melting. While the material is warm, flex and bend the heels to encourage them to soften.
- Toe Flexing: Gently flex your toes while wearing the heels to create more space in the toe box. This relieves pressure and prevents pinching.
- Leather Conditioner: If your heels are made of leather, consider using a leather conditioner to soften the material. Apply a small amount and gently massage it in.
- Score the Bottoms for Traction: Use a knife or sandpaper to score the bottoms of the heel tips. This improves traction, reducing the risk of slipping during your pole dance routine.
- Wear at Home: Begin by wearing your new heels for short periods at home. Walk around, practice basic pole moves, and get accustomed to the feel of the shoes.
- Rolling Your Feet: While sitting, gently roll your feet back and forth to flex and stretch the shoe material. This helps to mimic the natural movement of your feet while dancing.
- Stretching: If you experience tightness in specific areas, consider using a shoe stretcher or placing a bag of water inside the shoes and freezing them. As the water freezes and expands, it stretches the material.
- Practice in Sessions: Gradually increase the time you wear your heels during practice sessions. This allows your feet to adjust without causing discomfort.
- Protect Your Feet: To prevent blisters, consider using moleskin or silicone padding on areas that are prone to rubbing, such as the back of the heel and the top of the toes.
Tips for Dancing in Newly Broken-In Heels:
- Warm-Up: Begin your pole dance session with a thorough warm-up to get your blood flowing and your muscles prepared for movement.
- Practice Movement: Start with basic pole movements and spins to get used to the feel of the heels in motion.
- Strengthen Your Ankles: Incorporate ankle-strengthening exercises into your routine to provide stability and prevent wobbling in heels.
- Mindful Foot Placement: Pay attention to your foot placement while dancing. Be aware of the pole and the floor to ensure safe and confident movement.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you dance in your heels, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become. Consistent practice helps you develop the necessary balance and control.
In Conclusion:
Breaking in new heels for pole dancing is a gradual process that involves patience and persistence. By following these steps and listening to your body, you’ll soon find yourself moving with confidence, grace, and style. Remember that each person’s experience is unique, so take the time you need to get accustomed to your new heels. With practice and care, you’ll step onto the pole exuding confidence and ready to shine in your pole dancing journey.
So slip into your heels, embrace the sensation, and let your pole dancing journey take on a whole new dimension of elegance and empowerment.
Pole-ates Playhouse 