Spring has finally arrived! For many people, spring is synonymous with cleaning. While the act of cleaning isn’t particularly fun, there is something wonderful about having everything neat and organized. Here are four things to throw away and four things to add to your pole bag this season.

What to Pitch

1. Any clothing or costumes that don’t make you feel your best

We all know we should get rid of clothing once it is worn out, torn, contains holes, or is otherwise damaged, but sometimes clothing can be in good shape but still not suit your body. Different cuts of pole wear flatter different body types and with all the variety available, there is something out there for everyone. Once you’ve found pole clothes that make you feel great, there is no reason to hang on to the ones that don’t. Just because you bought something doesn’t mean you are obligated to keep it forever. If clothing is damaged- throw it away. If it simply doesn’t make you feel your most confident- give it to a friend with a different body type.

2. Any outdated cosmetics

Cosmetics can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Liquid cosmetics are the worst offenders, yet many people still hold on to them for far longer than they should. The general rule of thumb is that mascara should be replaced every 3-4 months, liquid foundation every 6 months, lipstick every 12 months, and anything in powder form every 18 months-2 years. If you’ve had the same lip gloss at the bottom of your bag for the past 3 years, it’s time to toss it out and replace it.

3. Any grip aids you don’t use

I have a penchant for trying new Grip Aids. Inevitably, many of these products end up at the bottom of my pole bag and never see the light of day. Similar to pole wear, find what works for you and stick to it. If you are carrying around a type of grip that you don’t use that is expired- toss it. If it just doesn’t work for you- see if there is someone in your studio who can use it. If you want to learn more about the types of Grip Aids out there, check out this thorough review of grip aids!

4. Negativity

Okay, so negativity isn’t a physical “thing”, but it can absolutely sabotage your pole practice. Pole is difficult and improvement takes time. Don’t be afraid to let go of that move you’ve been stuck on for a while and try something new. As cliché as it sounds, a fresh outlook can do wonders for your progress.

Once you’ve thrown away the unneeded items, here are some things you may want to add to your bag if you don’t already carry them:

1. Healthy Snacks

Life gets busy. You don’t always have time to eat a balanced meal or be properly fueled for practice. Keeping some trail mix or protein bars in your bag can help fight off the hanger and power you through a pole session. For ideas on snacks check out our blog post on the best snacks for Polers!

2. A notebook and pencil

There are few things worse than getting home after a pole practice and not being able to remember the order of the moves in the combination you just learned. A notebook and pencil allows you to keep track to combinations learned as well as a place to scribble down new ideas and tips for the moves you are working on. A pencil is preferable to a pen for a couple reasons. First, there is no chance of a pencil exploding into an inky mess all over your pole clothes. Second, a pencil allows you to erase things so you can easily reorganize ideas or combinations.

3. A lacrosse ball

Muscle knots and kinks are unavoidable when doing pole. A lacrosse ball is a portable way to help work out those knots when they occur. Foam rollers and other massage products can be too bulky to carry in your pole bag, but a lacrosse ball is the perfect size to take when you are on the go.

4. Face wipes

A good pole session can leave you extra sweaty, but that doesn’t mean that life stops for the day. There are still errands to run and places to go. If you don’t have access to a shower immediately following your practice, keeping a pack of face wipes in your bag can be a great way to clean up in a pinch.

BONUS: New Pole Wear

It never hurts to update your Pole Wear. Something new for Spring? Check out the New Bad Kitty® Mandala Collection HERE.

By keeping your pole bag well stocked and organized, you’ll be prepared to take on pole practices this spring and beyond!