Name: Axel Melin (He/Him)
Course: BA (Hons) Game Design and Production
Year: 2nd
Why did I join the Aberfly society?
I was friends with the previous society president and she invited me along with some other friends to a practice session. I found it quite fun and really enjoyed the company of the people in the society, with them being very friendly and talented
What initially drew you to pole, and how has it impacted your physical and mental well-being?
I am quite into weightlifting and bodybuilding and I felt that pole-dancing was somewhat similar in how you have to use strength to pull off a lot of moves as well as how it displays your body. I feel that for myself and most people, doing this will improve confidence.
How does pole contribute to your self-confidence, body positivity and overall sense of empowerment?
No matter who you are pole-dancing will improve your body, strength, flexibility but most importantly it’ll give you an outlet to express yourself in ways you maybe wouldn’t have imagined you could! It’s a judging-free environment which allows you to feel more confident and empowered physically and mentally.
Can you share a memorable experience of breaking through a personal limitation or fear while practicing pole? How did you approach it and what did you learn from that experience?
I am not particularly skilled yet but I remember the feeling of being able to do some basic tricks at the end of a practice session and feeling very happy about myself, it’s not as hard as it looks! (sometimes).
What's your favourite board game or video game, and what makes it so enjoyable for you?
You might not expect it but my favorite game of all time is UNDERTALE because of the clever writing, music and characters.
If you could have any animal as a pet, regardless of practicality or legality, what would you choose and why?
An amur tiger because they’re big and cool.
If you could have any superpower for a day, what would you choose and how would you use it?
I would want to fly so I could avoid taking the 99 bus to work every day.
