15 YEARS, ONE LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY!
How Pole Became Her Sanctuary Through Motherhood, Milestones & Her ‘Pole Sisters’: Tram's Story
What keeps someone spinning for 15 years? For Tram, it’s the strength she never knew she had, the friends who became family, and the joy that pulls her back week after week – even after becoming a mum to her gorgeous little girl.
Looking back at when you first started, what initial misconception about pole dancing or your own capabilities has shifted the most?
I initially thought pole dancing was all about being sexy and provocative. I even had a uni classmate yell at me once, 'enjoy stripper class!' But after the 30th tricep dip during warm ups, I quickly realised it's actually a full-body workout and the skin required is mainly to save you from falling.
Over the course of your 15 years at PA, what has most surprised you about your own transformation or style?
What’s been the most surprising transformation for me is the progress I’ve made in both strength and flexibility. I’ve always felt weak during classes, so it’s been incredibly rewarding to see tangible improvements.
What’s been the most surprising transformation for me is the progress I’ve made in both strength and flexibility. I’ve always felt weak during classes, so it’s been incredibly rewarding to see tangible improvements.
While I’ve often struggled with strength, it’s inspiring to witness how far I’ve come and how my body is becoming more capable each day. These changes remind me that growth happens with persistence, even if it feels slow at times!
Over the years and multiple studio relocations, what’s one thing about Pole Athletica’s atmosphere or culture that always felt like “home” to you?
I believe the true sense of 'home' at the pole studio comes from the deep friendships you build there. It’s the connections with others that make it feel like a supportive, welcoming community. Beyond the physical aspect of pole dancing, the bonds you create with the teachers and your peers are what make it a special place.
I believe the true sense of 'home' at the pole studio comes from the deep friendships you build there. It’s the connections with others that make it feel like a supportive, welcoming community. Beyond the physical aspect of pole dancing, the bonds you create with the teachers and your peers are what make it a special place.
How has Pole Athletica’s community played a role in keeping you motivated, supported, or inspired over the years?
My pole family is the reason I show up every week. It’s not just a place where I can work on my physical strength; it’s also where I find a sense of community and connection. The friendships we form are built on trust, especially since we literally catch each other when we fall. There aren’t many people out there who can say they’ve had others step in to support them like that, both in class and in life. It’s the support and the shared experiences that make me look forward to each session.
My pole family is the reason I show up every week. It’s not just a place where I can work on my physical strength; it’s also where I find a sense of community and connection. The friendships we form are built on trust, especially since we literally catch each other when we fall. There aren’t many people out there who can say they’ve had others step in to support them like that, both in class and in life. It’s the support and the shared experiences that make me look forward to each session.
We all hit snags along the way—what was one significant challenge you faced, and how did you push through it?
One of the biggest challenges in my pole journey was having a baby.
Pregnancy changes your entire body, which meant I had to adapt—I couldn’t cup grip shoulder mount into a brass monkey while pregnant, so I switched to a snake grip and launched myself up instead. Then came the challenge of recovery and rebuilding strength and my core postpartum.
Is there a personal milestone or “lightbulb moment” in your journey that still brings a huge smile to your face?
My lightbulb moment came when I finally managed to climb to the top of the pole. It might seem easy for some, but for me, it was a huge challenge. I remember being stuck for a long time at the same location, struggling with the movement and wondering if I would ever get it. I had to keep pushing through, repeatedly practicing the pulling motion to build the strength and muscle I needed. It felt like it took forever, but when I finally reached the top, I realised there was hope for me in pole. It was a turning point—proof that with patience, persistence, and a little bit of faith in myself, I could achieve things I never thought possible.
How have these past 10 (or 15) years of pole practice influenced any areas of your life outside the studio, like your day-to-day routine, mindset, or relationships?
I absolutely love my Pole Monday classes because they energise me for the entire week.
It’s amazing how much they impact my mood—when I miss a class, I can feel myself becoming irritable, almost like something’s missing until the next session. Pole has a way of grounding me and setting the tone for the days ahead. It even influences my daily routine, as I find myself sneaking in stretches or small exercises whenever I can, all to build a bit more strength and flexibility for pole. It’s become such a motivating force in my life that I’m always looking for ways to improve, even outside of class.
If you ever took a break from pole, what drew you back to Pole Athletica, and how did returning feel both physically and mentally?
My biggest break was my pole 'maternity leave'. That time away allowed me to focus on my little new family, however, when I finally returned, it felt amazing. I was so excited to reunite with my pole sisters, to move my body again, and to have a space that was just for me. It wasn’t just about getting back into the physical practice, but about reclaiming a moment of personal time, something I had missed during that time away.
If you could offer one golden piece of advice or inspiration to someone just starting out, what would it be—and why do you think it’s so important?
Pole is for everyBODY.
Focus on your own pole journey and try not to compare yourself to others. It's natural to look at your classmates, especially since they’re right there in front of you, but remember that everyone’s path is different. Progress takes time, and patience with yourself is key.