As the creator of Polga (pole yoga) fitness program I truly understand the benefits of stretching and the positive impacts it has not only on your physical body but your emotional state.  Stretching is great from the mind, body, and spirit.  I know many people are intrigued by the notion of “doing the splits” so I thought it would be fun to give some “pointers” on this.  Splits are a fun goal and an easy way to track your progress on living a more “flexible” life.  The following is just a few stretches and tips that you can use to improve your “splits”! You will notice that in the photos are poles (vertical barres).  Using poles as a tool for stretching is FABULOUS, and I think everyone should purchase one for your home!  Check out our website www.polgapoleyoga.com

Rule #1: Do not force it

Forcing yourself into the splits is a very BAD idea. “You have to think about the fact that your...

7 truths about Pole, Pole Fitness, and Polga (pole yoga)

1. Polga is a full body workout

Pole fitness and yoga are both full body workouts, so when you combine the two, JUST IMAGINE. It is resistance training, stretching, strengthening and cardio in one. Flexibility is improved because you have the assistance of the pole. 

2. “Not having upper body strength” is not an excuse to not try it.

This is quite possibly the most common argument I hear against wanting to try any kind of pole based exercise. There will always be hundreds of reasons not to try. Maybe you aren’t at your ideal weight, or you are not “flexible”, or you think you're too old. Why not stop creating roadblocks? You'll build skills as you grow and learn. That is part of what's so inspiring and empowering about it.  Whether you’re uncoordinated and can’t lift your own body weight you can benefit from pole, it is always a good idea to try something new. 

3. Even...

7 Ways Flexibility Improves Your Life (try for 30 days and see how you feel)

1. Flexibility improves your balance

Flexibility training, you can improve your balance, making it easier to maintain your balance for everyday actions like going, going for a walk or even, sitting down or standing up.  Along with adding stretches into your daily life, other ways to improve balance include standing on one leg, walking heel to toe or doing squats.

2. Prevents aches and pains

When we loosen tight muscles, it leads to fewer aches and pains, and benefits our posture. Common muscle pain is associated with microscopic tears in our body’s tissue.  When we stretch and feel pain, it most commonly means lactic acids and other waste products have accumulated in our muscles. That is why it is crucial not to overstretch because it can lead to cramps. Just go to the point that is most comfortable, while still feeling a good stretch in whatever position you’re in. Also,...