Interview with Lincs Pole Championship winner Kim Simpson

After the success of the second edition of the Lincolnshire Pole Championship last month, we talk to one of the winners Kim Simpson...

1.You recently won the beginners category at the Lincs Pole Championship. How do you feel being a winner and will you be entering any more competitions in 2013?
I feel absolutely ecstatic! I still don't think it has sunk in yet. I will definitely be entering more competitions this year!

2.Was this your first pole competition?  You are very brave. What advice would you give other beginners thinking of entering their first competition?
Yes this was my first competition and I was very nervous, but I will say to other beginners to make the most of it because it's over so fast and the experience is amazing!

3.How and did you first get interested in pole dancing?
My fiancés cousin Emma Addison is the instructor at The studio in Alford and he showed me some pictures of her pole dancing and I was like wow I want do that, so I did and it was one of the best things I've ever done :)

4.What is it about pole dancing that you enjoy the most?
I love the fact that there is always something new to learn and I can always give myself a challenge. Everyone is always so supportive and so nice and I love how enjoyable my instructor makes the classes!

5.What are the main fitness benefits of pole dancing and how have pole dancing improved your fitness, strength or body shape?
It helps to build up strength and stamina and i feel they have really improved! I feel happier with my body shape because it has helped tone my muscles and pole is great for burning calories!

6. Has pole dancing had an impact on anything else in your life such as giving your more confidence or making new friends?
Since starting pole dancing my confidence has had a real boost and I have made lots of new friends. Everyone is so friendly and we all support each other :) ... I have my own little pole family at The studio.

7. What are your 3 favourite pole moves and why?
Handstand poses, Allegra and Butterfly 

8. What are your favourite strength training moves on the pole and why?
I have found practicing my routine has made me a lot stronger and really improved my stamina and fitness. I enjoy the dance element and will probably use this to keep improving my endurance. My instructor also recommends controlled lifts and dismounts and arms only climbs to help. Sometimes we do pole circuits too! 

9. Where would you like to see pole dancing in the future?
I'd love for more of my friends to try pole and for it to be thought of in the same way as like a gym class. A great workout and good fun. I'd love to see more people becoming involved with less people wing judgemental. 

10.What pole performers do you admire or inspire you? 
I admire Arlene Caffery and Valeria Bonaloume, seeing them perform at Lincolnshire Pole Championships was really inspiring :) 

11.What would you say to someone who is thinking of trying pole dancing for the first time to convince them to give it a go?
Bite the bullet! I'm so pleased I did. It's so much fun and already I've made fantastic new friends. Pole really changes your body too! If you are unsure, ask about a private lesson first. That's what I did and it gave me the foundation and confidence to join group classes. 

12. Three words that sum up pole dancing for you. 
Exciting, bendy, strength