#RespectThePole
Should pole dancing be an Olympic sport? | The Tylt
Should pole dancing be an Olympic sport?
Pole dancing: it's not just for strip clubs anymore. Pole sports is now an officially recognized sport according to the Global Association of International Sports Federation, and the International Pole Sports Federation has set their sights on being included in the Olympics. But because of pole dancing's strip club origins, many people think it's sleazy and a joke. Is it time for the sports world to recognize pole dancing?
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Should pole dancing be an Olympic sport?
Pole sports proponents point out there is little difference between pole dancing and many other judged sports (such as Olympics or ice-skating). Competitive pole dancers are some of the most awe-inspiring athletes out there.
#StrippingNotSport
Some critics say pole dancing will always be associated with the sex industry, and Olympic sports shouldn't be rooted in demeaning women.
Pole dancing is at its core sexist. It is an activity typically performed in strip clubs by nearly naked women for the enjoyment of fully-clothed men. Women are reduced to sexual entertainment, to objects for men’s gratification.
Supporters say sexism and Puritanism keep pole sports from getting the recognition they deserve.
No shame to those who actually do pole dancing too. It's an amazing sport and requires a LOT of skill.
— Demi 🕊️ (@DemiLeighFr) January 22, 2018
Pole dancing oughta be an olympic sport.
— I can explain ****, for you, if you'd like? (@DaftPhully) January 11, 2018
#StrippingNotSport
Others just aren't having it.
No, pole dancing is not a "sport." This 4th Wave #feminism is killing me. Pole dancing = dehumanization & objectification of women. #vaw https://t.co/aY4oYK05vd
— Mahri Irvine, PhD (@Mahri_Irvine) October 19, 2017
#StrippingNotSport
I don't care who you are, pole dancing is not a sport 🤷🏽♂️ it belongs in a strip club, end of. #bbcnews
— Aaron Davies (@Aaron3110) October 17, 2017
