Interview with Tracy Huckfield from Pagan’s Pole

We talk to the lovely Tracy Kuckfield from Pagan's Pole in Wales, who will be judging at this weekends British Isles Pole Dance Championship.  

1.You’re judging at this years British Isles Pole Dance Championship. What will you be looking for from the competitors performances?
I would love to see confidence and originality.  I love to see moves performed or combined in a new and novel way!

2.What do you think makes a good judge?
A good judge is both fair and impartial.  He/she will needs to be honest and not afraid to make unpopular decisions.  Any judge should also have the ability to POSITIVELY criticise the performer; this will enable them to improve on their performances in the future.  Experience within the pole industry is also a must.

3. How and did you first get interested in pole dancing and what made you become an instructor/performer?
I always loved to dance and keep fit, and pole dancing seemed a natural progression to this. I was hooked after one lesson and began training in earnest.  Pole dancing had such a positive impact on my life, I wanted to share it with everyone! 

4.What is it about pole dancing that you enjoy the most?
Is there anything not to enjoy? The pole dance/fitness community has become like an extended family.  There are so many competitions and events held across the country, it actually feels like you’re visiting family/friends every time you attend one of these events.  The love of pole has bought many people together and I think this is something to be highly valued.

5. What are your 3 favourite pole moves and why?
Oooo that’s difficult! Alegra is definitely one of my favs…I think it’s an absolutely beautiful pose.  Secondly is the Deadlift; I love the power in any kind of deadlift.  My third favourite is a very basic, simple spin but I think it’s so pretty…the seated lady spin (otherwise known as the chair spin).

6.What are the main fitness benefits of pole dancing and how have pole dancing improved your fitness, strength or bodyshape?
I think the main benefit is the building of pure, unadulterated core strength! Improvement in posture and flexibility are also very prominent and beneficial.  Pole dancing has improved my strength so much! I was always very slim, but now I have definition to my body.  With this increase in strength and toning of the body, a natural confidence occurs.  Pole dance doesn’t just improve your body physically, it assists mentally and emotionally.  It helps to build confidence, helps to overcome depression. It makes people feel good!

7.Pole performers are athletes like in any other sport. What is an average day’s training for you?
Gosh, it varies so much! If I’m training for an event I will be on the pole a couple of hours a day, otherwise I wouldn’t train for anymore than an hour.

8.What pole performers do you admire or inspire you?
I could name so many people here…I think ALL men and women who perform have something inspirational to offer, and there are soooooo many that have inspired me and I admire them all! There are however 3 performers who really stand out for me:

Zoraya Judd: I could just watch this lady dance all day and dance all night.  Such a beautiful dancer, with so much power.  I recently attended a masterclass with this lady and she blew me away with her ability!

Tracey Simmonds: Again this lady astounded me with her strength and flexibility.  Tracey appears weightless on the pole, and is frequently coming up with new (terrifyingly difficult) transitions and tricks.

Sally-Ann Giles: This lady has warmed my heart on many occasions.  I think Sally has demonstrated to us all that pole dancing is not all about big tricks.  Her love of pole shines through in every performance and I think she has inspired so many people across the country.

9. If someone has never tried pole dancing before how to they get started?
I would recommend that they research the pole schools in their local area.  There are many people now teaching pole without any qualifications or insurances, so always check that you’ve found a ‘safe’ school.   Once they have found a school that is suitable simply call or email the instructor there.  My experience with instructors across the country has been very positive.  I’m sure they will be guided and advised in a friendly manner.

10. What’s next for you in the coming year?
Pagan’s Pole is continuing to grow and I am opening my first dance academy at the end of this year, so 2012 will be very busy while we sort out any teething problems! We are also busy organising The All Wales Pole Championships 2012, which will be held on the 31^st March in Llandudno.  If 2011 is anything to go by, I’m sure 2012 will be a very busy year!

Find out more about Tracy and Pagan's Pole here

Find out more about the British Isles Pole Dance Championship here