Twirly Girl Pole Dancing Documentary

Awhile ago, Bel mentioned to me that she had been contacted by a girl named Karen about doing a pole fitness documentary for her school project.  Bel said she had talked about me and that Karen was interested in interviewing me as well.  I get excited/nervous when opportunities like this present themselves.  Will I look okay?  Will I say the right thing?  Will I represent pole properly?

Initially, the idea was presented to me as a documentary about pole fitness.  I have talked about the difference between pole dance and pole fitness.  The lines are blurred for me but there is often a distinct difference for those who prefer one or the other.  I wondered if I could properly present a good story about pole fitness when I am not exactly the best representation of society's desired "fit" person.  I pulled on my Health At Every Size big girl panties and said I'd do it.

I chatted with Karen before we met.  She said she'd send me the questions to review prior to our interview.  I had my whole pole dancing story ready in my head, ready to present it in linear fashion.  Then I received the questions.  Clearly, Karen had done her research.  She knew everything about me.  My entire history with weight issues.  My religious up-bringing.  Everything.  This wasn't just about pole dance.  This was about my life journey.  From being a big kid to a fat college student.  This was about weight loss surgery.  It was about re-gaining weight.  This was about health and fitness and pole dance.  This was MY story.  Suddenly, I was more than nervous. 

I cried as I read the questions, re-counting stories in my head from when I was younger and made to feel like I wasn't good enough because I was chubby.  I followed the questions and re-gathered my thoughts.  This interview was going to be WAY harder than I thought!

Tina and I met on two different occasions.  We did talk about my story.  About my weight and upbringing.  And about how pole dance has changed me as a person.  And I didn't cry!  But it was a really awesome experience.  I've been on such an amazing journey, starting with Rita and I meeting Bel in December of 2009, all the way to now, dancing with my class, Boys, Girls and Twirls on Monday nights.  I have met so many awesome people and I thank each and every one for being part of my life. 

So, without further adieu, here is Karen's class project, a documentary about ME!  Please check it out and feel free to leave a comment on YouTube to let Karen know what you think about her project.