Pole dancing is often labeled as "vulgar" in the past, but it is actually a performing art and fitness project that combines strength and beauty. Li Shimin began to learn pole dancing five years ago. Although she was denied by her elders and friends, this has never shaken her enthusiasm for pole dancing. She also hopes to change others' misunderstanding and prejudice against this form of performance through her own example.

Li Shimin (26 years old) has always been curious about pole dancing. In 2018, after seeing a friend posting her experience of learning pole dancing on social media, she was inspired and decided to sign up for an experience class and step into the world of pole dancing.

Recalling the first class, she said: "Everyone wears the clothes that make them feel most comfortable, concentrates on completing every movement, and no one will cast any judgment on you, which makes me feel so free for the first time."

Li Shimin learned ballet in elementary school. She originally wanted to join dance extracurricular activities in middle school, but because some classmates laughed at her for being "fleshy" and couldn't be a dancer, she was discouraged.

Pole dancing is a second chance for her to overcome her inner self-confidence and give herself a second chance. "In the past, I was very concerned about what others thought of my appearance and clothing, but the process of learning pole dancing in the past few years has made me gradually realise that appearance is secondary, and I also gain strength from it."

In 2019, she began to upload her learning results to social media, hoping to share the joy with relatives and friends, and at the same time promote this performing art. But she found that not everyone can accept her like this.

"More and more people in society are taking pole dancing seriously, but some people still associate it with strip dancing. Some friends pointed out that it is inappropriate for me to post this kind of video online. Although they have good intentions, I can't help but feel very disappointed because they don't attempt to understand pole dancing (before commenting)."

To Li Shimin's delight, at the same time, four or five of her friends signed up for pole dancing classes under her introduction. Her mother went from thinking that learning pole dancing was "disgraceful", to acquiescing to her installing a pole in the room for practice, and affirming the physical fitness and skills that pole dancers must possess.

After graduating from university two years ago, Li Shimin decided to become a pole dance teacher. So far, she has taught more than 500 students, the oldest being in her 60s.

Now every time she sees a new student walking into the classroom with chest hunched and unconfident, it reminds her of her original self. "So the first thing I do in class is to make sure the students understand that this is a space without judgment, so that they can feel at ease to be themselves."

Li Shimin said: "I hope more people can realize that pole dancing is a physical exercise and an art form that can be enjoyed by all ages and helps to strengthen the body."