You've probably been thinking about joining a pole class for a while. Maybe you've even gone to book a few times and chickened out, right? But now you've done it and have no idea what to expect. Pole dancing is not as scary as you think, it is much like any other fitness class, and most studios are friendly and welcoming.
Pre-class preparation
There is a preconception that you need to already be strong and flexible to start pole classes and this sometimes leads people to put off giving it a try until they feel they are "in better shape". This is a huge mistake! You do not need to be strong, flexible, skinny, young or any other preconceived idea you have about what a pole dancer looks like.
A good pole instructor can teach anyone and we do not expect students to have any particular level of fitness, flexibility or strength when they join us. Your instructor will help you build up all of the skills you need from day one.
Top Tips:
♥ Know where the studio is located and give plenty of time to find it. Pole studios are often in hard to find locations.
♥ Wear something comfortable - you do not need to be in tiny shorts and a sports bra the first week. I allow my students to wear leggings or joggers for beginners.
♥ Avoid moisturising on pole days, particularly with oil based lotions.
♥ Leave your preconceptions at the door! Just enjoy yourself.
On the day
Arrive a little early in case you get lost or there are forms to fill out on arrival. It's important to wear something you'll be comfortable to exercise in and take a bottle of water with you. Your instructor will likely ask you to remove any jewellery but if they don't - do it anyways. It's safer and protects the equipment.
All studios are different and have different expectations, rules and etiquette, but there are some things that are fairly standard. Hopefully your instructor will start the class by introducing themselves, explaining a little about the class and give you the opportunity to ask questions, but, if they haven't, don't be shy to ask if you're unsure about anything. It's their job to help you.
The class will likely consist of a warm up, a few exercises both on and off the pole, a few steps and basic pole tricks or spins and a cool down to finish. It should be suitable even for students who can't hold their own bodyweight.
Please remember that pole is hard, and most of us have never had to lift our body weight prior to our first class, so a good studio and instructor will have a progressive pole syllabus that slowly introduces and prepares you for lifting your own weight. It takes time to be able to a lot of the crazy stuff you see pole dancers doing online. Avoid looking at the beginner pole tags on social media because half the time - it's not even beginner content.
It's also really important not to compare yourself to anyone else, this is your journey. I say it to my students a lot but, if you are progressing, it doesn't matter how slow you go or how fast everyone else is going. Pole is supposed to be fun! We are not out here training for the Olympics.
Top Tips:
♥ It is important to listen to your instructor and not speak over them.
♥ If slippy try washing your hands, cleaning your pole or ask your instructor about grip aids.
♥ Be kind to everyone, cheer your fellow students on!
♥ Do not try tricks you've not been taught yet - this is dangerous.
♥ Take lots of photos if your studio allows it, you'll want to look back on your first classes in future.
♥ Don't put pressure on yourself.
After class
It is very likely that you'll be sore after your first class, and for some days after. It helps to soak in a bath of epsom salts, do some gentle stretching and keep well hydrated. Your body will adapt in time and you'll find you get sore less often and only after intense classes. Some level of delayed onset muscle soreness (doms) is completely normal and does not mean you've injured yourself.
If you enjoyed your class - let everyone know! Pole studios are often small struggling passion projects and they rely on word of mouth and reviews to help promote and find new students. You could simply let your friends know, post up on social media or pop a review on google or your studios facebook page. Word of mouth does more for studios than any advertising budget and your instructor will love you for it! We love teaching enthusiastic students.
Top Tips:
♥ Get involved in your studios community if they have one!
♥ Share/document your progress on social media.
♥ Start to research and get involved in the wider pole community.
♥ Buy a cute pole outfit! You'll feel even more amazing in class.