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