Joanna hopes for pole position

Joanna Robinson, an instructor at Polercise Ltd in Belfast, will be competing against top dancers from over 20 countries in the competition.

And the 31-year-old has been training hard in preparation for the event. "It takes a lot of practice to prepare for a competition like this," she said.

"The judging criteria is all about how well you interpret the music, the technicality of the moves, as well as showing all-over body strength, endurance and flexibility."

Joanna secured a place in the world championships after fending off competition from rivals in the all-Ireland competition, which was held in Belfast earlier in this year.

She added: "I couldn't believe it when I won, I was so shocked. The level of pole dancing has greatly improved and there are many new and harder moves.

"It is really very exciting to be able to represent Ireland in the world championships and I am rather nervous, but that is good as it keeps the adrenaline pumping."