When dance meets cheer: the world of pomdance
Pomdance is a rapidly growing discipline in its own right. Still little known but driven by boundless energy, it is attracting more and more enthusiasts in Belgium. Step into a world where rigour, team spirit and passion come together with Aurélie and Sophia, coaches at Blossoms Heat Cheerleading.
What is pomdance, and what makes it unique?
“Pomdance, also known as performance cheer, is a discipline that combines dance and gymnastics. Pom is a discipline in its own right, but it draws on techniques from other dance styles to enrich and add complexity to its performances. The foundation is jazz, with elements of classical dance and hip-hop. Pom is a very rigorous style, with sharp, crisp and precise movements. What makes it specific are the codified arm movements called ‘pom motions’, which structure our choreographies. The difficulty lies in the group’s ability to be extremely synchronised, while performing numerous movements in a very short space of time.”
What does a training session look like?
“I think that, whatever pom team you train with, you will always find work on flexibility, technique and arm movements. Our classes also work on cardio, strength, synchronisation and technique through exercises and choreographies.”
Do you need any physical qualities to start?
“For me, there are no physical qualities that are essential at the outset, because motivation is the foundation of everything. What matters most is being truly motivated, because it is a demanding sport that requires a great deal of work and rigour. It is not just individual work, but also collective: you have to be able to adapt to the group.”
What does pomdance give you, and what would you say to someone who is hesitating?
“In a word, I would say: happiness. I love this discipline. It has allowed me to meet wonderful people, to travel… and this is only the beginning! So I would simply say to that person: come and try one of our open classes! But be careful… you might get hooked.”
Much more than a discipline, pomdance is a sport, a way of life, a human adventure… and above all a passion. A welcoming space where solidarity and team spirit come together to create much more than choreographies. A unique passion, which could well become yours! Sign up for the Blossoms open classes this summer to discover it.