Allan Reinikka was a newspaper photographer when he was sent to cover a pole-dancing studio in 2001. Little did he know what to expect when he got to work.
The 61-year old from Rockhampton is not afraid of taking on new challenges, and he’s already tried his hand at mountain biking and roller skating.
The studio’s female students would often ask him if he wanted to try out. He eventually fell in love with the sport and booked a class.
The combination of strength and flexibility has him hooked, and he admits that learning is often frightening.
According to Mr. Reinikka, if you fall off the pole, your face will be the closest thing that you will be able to touch the floor.
Pole dancing is a form of fitness that’s popular among people of all ages. Although it’s mainly about being able to put on a pair of heels, it’s also about being able to maintain a healthy body.
One of the most important factors that people consider when it comes to pole dancing is skin.
The amount of skin that you need to expose to grip the pole adds to the stereotype of this sport. For Allan, pole dancing is a great way to keep his body in tip-top shape.
He also enjoys the fact that many people who start have issues with their bodies, but they soon realize that they are actually pretty cool.
Tamara Mackenzie, who has been running the Full Metal studio in the central Queensland city of Rockhampton for over 10 years, said that she had been trying to get Allan to do a routine for years, but he would always come up with an excuse.
The studio, which is located above the city’s main street, is an airy and comfortable facility.
When Allan was approached to appear on a television talent show, Tamara said that she was not going to allow him to escape.
In October, he showed up on stage in a tiny pair of shorts and a singlet. The crowd was stunned by his appearance.
After his performance, which lasted for around 90 seconds, the judges gave him a standing ovation.