If you weren’t already aware, the incomparable Dalijah Franklin, world-class pole dancer and founder of Black Girls Pole, will be taking over Lotus Fitness Studio next week! We are beyond hyped to have this powerhouse of pole in the studio. She was gracious enough to provide this awesome and thoughtful interview so that our students can get to know her a little better before she arrives.

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Lotus Fitness Studio: How do you feel you have incorporated your dance and acrobatic backgrounds into your pole journey? Do you feel like you draw more heavily on one area than others (ie-gymnastics more than jazz dance)?

Dalijah Franklin: Gymnastics and Dance have definitely shaped me into the pole dance I am today. I get my power, flips and fearlessness from being a gymnast for most of my life and my finesse and sensuality from my dance background. I use both equally when I pole especially when creating a routine to perform or compete.

LFS: As a performer and competitor, what do you think is the most important aspect of a dance piece?

DF: When I am watching a performance I am looking for that connection between the dancer and the audience. The tricks are great and there is something to be said for the dedication and training it takes to achieve all of the pole tricks but if I don’t feel a connection to the dancer while they are performing those tricks, I loose interest. A dip turn or a pirouette can be just as amazing as a spatchcock or Russian Split.

LFS: In previous interviews, you have discussed why you started Black Girls Pole. You have said you didn’t see many women of color competing or pole dancing. Do you feel like that has been changing over the years?

DF: Since starting Black Girls Pole 4 years ago there has definitely been a shift in the presences of Pole dancers of Color! I started BGP to celebrate and also be a platform for dancers of Color in the pole community. When I started pole I could count on one hand how many black pole dancers were competing! I knew I wanted to create something that celebrated Black Pole dancers! I remember when I started the Instagram page for BGP, I was nervous that I wouldn’t have enough black women that pole to post! Thank goodness that has changed! Now there is enough content to post forever! It is so amazing to see Pole dancers of Color all over the world competing and performing and opening up their own studios! It fills my heart that BGP has helped so many people connect and be a community!

LFS: What is your favorite thing about teaching?

DF: I don’t have just one favorite thing about teaching! I really love being an instructor. I get to be a part of a persons life and share experiences with them whether it be getting a pole move for the first time or doing their first performance. When I see someone do something they never thought they could do and you see their confidence grow before your eyes, that is what makes me want to keep teaching! It is so rewarding to have such an impact on so many people.

LFS: Do you do any cross-training? If so, what is it? Do you find your background in Nutritional Science comes into play in your training regimen?

DF: I do cross train! I am certified in Strong First which is an intense kettlebell certification. I absolutely love kettle bells because they are so challenging but when done correctly make you incredibly strong. When I am training for any kind of performance I kick up my kettlebells a notch and they keep me conditioned and also injury free! As far as my nutrition background, if I could just stay away from the kettle chips maybe those abs would pop out…but i love chips too much!

LFS: Any projects on the horizon we should keep our eyes out for?

DF: Yes BGP has a busy year this year! We just finished our first international retreat in Bermuda, The BGP Showcase is happening at Pole Con, and then we are headed to London for a BGP Show! Also this year is our summer intensive in Jackson Mississippi and finally our last retreat of the year in Chicago! I am super excited for everything that is happening!

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Thanks so much to Dalijah for taking the time out of her packed schedule (and during the BGP retreat in Bermuda no less!) to provide these amazing glimpses into her philosophy of training and her aspirations for the pole community. We can’t wait for your takeover!