Taking your first pole dance class? Read me!
Nikki here! I took my first pole dancing class in 2019, and it was so much fun. Little did I know how much it would change my life. Prior to pole dancing, I was not a gymnast, not a dancer, nor was I that athletic. I had taken the occasional yoga class here and there. That is suffice to say, pole dancing is for every body! Many people ask me, “Do I need to do X exercise to begin?” Or they say, “I’m not strong enough to pole dance.” There are no qualifications to start - you will build the strength that you need by taking classes! I couldn’t do a pull-up OR a push-up when I began pole dance.
In preparation for your first class, be sure to avoid any moisturizers, lotions, or hydrating creams immediately before class - they can make it harder to grip the pole! I always recommend doing your skincare routine after class. Additionally, please bring a pair of shorts or bottoms that expose your thigh - we need the skin contact for grip in beginner moves such as a Pole Sit or Lady Sit! Your instructor will ask you to take off rings, bracelets or watches - as these can damage the pole, possibly pinch your skin, or affect your grip. Bring plenty of water and hydrate regularly throughout the class!
When you take a class at the studio, you can expect a 10 to 15 minute warm-up on the ground. Yoga blocks, mats, cleaning supplies, and towels will be provided. We will then move into conditioning for pole dance, before learning tricks, transitions, and choreography. There will be time at the end of class to cool-down and stretch. Modifications are provided for all levels, and feedback is always welcome. Instructors may offer something called a “spot” where a guiding hand is offered to help move you through a trick. You are always free to say no and accommodations will be made for you. For stainless steel poles, we clean them with a strong Isopropyl Alcohol - there will be bottles and microfiber rags provided for wiping the pole. It is recommended to wipe down the pole often during class, as various moisturizers, lotions, creams, and our body’s natural oils and sweat can rub off on the pole. A little goes a long way!
After class, we will do a short cool down. You may experience some bruising, which is completely normal (some like to call bruising from the pole, “pole kisses”)! Drink plenty of water and get lots of rest.
Last but certainly not least, we are not in the business of sanitizing pole dance. Angel Studio centers and honors the roots of pole dancing in strip clubs and s3x work. Without strippers and s3x workers, modern pole dance would not exist today. We believe that pushing “pole fitness” strips pole dance of its origins and erases the important stories of s3x workers, who are still fighting for equity, respect, and safe working conditions.
See you in class!
With love,
Nikki