“I want to start pole dancing” FAQ
You have decided to want to start pole dancing but you’re having doubts because you’re nervous and about to step into the unknown. This FAQ is for you. I have put together some of the most common questions I get asked by students leading up to their first day. If you have a question that wasn’t answered here don’t hesitate to get in contact so I can add it to the list!
How strong do I have to be before I start pole dancing?
You have to be as strong as you are right now. The great thing about pole is it makes you strong and you don’t have to be anything before starting. Your instructor will work within your current level and if there is something you can’t do yet that’s ok because in the future you will be able to do it if you’re consistent with your training. Pole is hard, especially when you first start, but if you stick with it you’ll be able to learn amazing things.
Am I fit enough to start pole dancing?
Similar to the above question many people think they need to ‘get fitter’ before starting pole which isn’t true. You will see your fitness improve over time. Once again there is no need to start any sort of fitness or strength routine just so you can go to a pole class.
What do I wear/bring to my first pole dancing lesson?
To your first lesson wear activewear because you will be working out! It's better to wear shorts because it's likely you’ll need leg/thigh grip for some of the tricks you might learn. However, if wearing shorts in public makes you feel uncomfortable you can wear leggings or pants to your first few classes. I would suggest wearing sneakers for warm up and for the actual class just take off your shoes and wear socks or have bare feet. I prefer wearing socks because the socks help you slide during turns. Alternatively if you’re feeling adventurous you can bring a pair of heels. When choosing a pair of heels choose a pair you don’t love too much (they will end up with scuffs, you cannot protect them!) and make sure they have ankle straps.
I would also recommend bringing a small face cloth or towel to wipe your pole down both during and after class. Studios will have cleaning cloths but its just a nice thing to do to reduce the studios cleaning bill to have your own and probably a little more hygienic too.
A note on the pants - if you fall in love with pole but cannot wear shorts due to religious or other reasons I would recommend investing in some sticky pole leggings. These leggings have a special grip on them which lets you stick to the pole but they can cost more than ordinary leggings and not the type of thing you could wear everyday so I would definitely make a commitment to learning pole before purchasing a pair.
Do I have to go upside down?
You will absolutely not go upside down in your first class, in most studios you won’t even go upside down in your first course/term. However going upside down is nothing to be scared off, your instructor will make sure you have completed the proper conditioning and coaching before you attempt it and I promise its actually lots of fun.
Do I have to wear heels?
You don’t have to wear heels at all! Heels are fun to wear and if its something you’re even remotely interested in I highly recommend you give them a go. I would hold off buying pole shoes until you’ve decided you really like it just because they can be expensive. In the meantime either buy a super cheap pair of heels or use a pair you don’t mind scruffing up. Your first pair of shoes will definitely end up ruined.
Once you’ve decided to start pole dancing and you want to wear shoes I highly recommend your first pair of shoes be 7 inch plastic strap pleasers. If you’re in Australia I recommend purchasing either from your local studio or from the shoeme website.
I’ve never danced before, can I still join?
Yes! I’d argue that if you want to start dancing as an adult pole dancing is one of the most accessible ways to start as most pole dancers don’t start until adulthood. There will be lots of other beginners in your class who have never danced just like you.
Do I need to learn from an instructor? Can I learn at home?
You absolutely should be learning from an instructor in a studio where possible. If you absolutely must learn from home then you need to work with an instructor online who can gives you drills and tricks suitable for you current level. Pole is safe but only if it is taught correctly!
If you’re a beginner learning from home start by purchasing a home pole from a reputable business (such as xpole). We have tips for choosing a home pole here. If you need an instructor to work with I am also available for private or small group lessons online. Just get in contact to see if I have any availability at the moment. Even if you choose not to learn from me please learn from an actual instructor who you can interact with, not a youtube video.
Should I buy my own pole for home?
No need, especially when you’re a beginner. Purchasing a home pole is big investment and many homes aren’t suitable for one anyway, but it may be something to keep in mind for the future if you start to get serious about it.
How much do pole dancing classes cost?
In Australia a single class may cost anywhere between $20-$35. If you purchase a class pack or choose to pay off your class on direct debit you’ll often get a discount. Many studios will also have an introductory offer for new students who are looking to try pole for the first time. If you can afford it I recommend attending 2x classes a week to start off but you can still make great progress just attending one class a week.
What happens in a pole class?
Before your first class even begins you’ll want to head to your studio 10-15 min early so you can sign a waiver. It will also give you time to ask any lingering questions you might have, meet the friendly reception staff and get more comfortable being in the space if you’re a bit nervous.
At the start of class your instructor will call the class in and introduce themselves. If its the first day of term the instructor might ask everyone to introduce themselves as well. Don’t be nervous, these people are your future best friends I promise.
Next there will be some sort of group warm up that usually lasts for 10-15 minutes, I do my warm up to music to make it more fun. After warm up the main event you’ve been waiting for will begin! This will consist of you learning a few beginner tricks and maybe putting them together into a routine. Some studios will finish their classes with a cool down.
Don’t forget to book your next class before you leave! Pole classes are limited by the amount of poles in the room so if you don’t book early you might miss out. It also really helps the studio and instructors when you book ahead of time and they will really appreciate it.
How long until I get ‘good’ at pole dancing?
Well I think your first class went great actually ;)
But I know what you're asking and the annoying answer is ‘I don’t know, it depends’. It depends what you define as ‘good’, how much you practice, how seriously you take it and your starting point. Everybody is different, but I will say enjoy the journey and don’t trying to make it faster by attempting tricks your instructor hasn’t taught you yet.
Why do pole dancers wear such little clothing and heels?
We use our skin to grip the pole! Plus I personally love participating in a sport/artform where I don’t have to wear pants. Not only are the heels super cute but they also make it easier to dance by reducing friction between your feet and the floor when you dance on your tippy toes.
Can men do pole dancing?
Everyone can do pole dancing. There are still very few studios who limit their clientele based on gender but this is a very rare thing nowadays.
How do I start pole dancing?
Use google to find your nearest studio and get yourself signed up for a beginner class! If you’re not sure which classes are suitable for you call or email the studio to ask.
Couldn’t find an answer to your question? Send it to me and I’ll help you out as soon as I can! x
About the author
Elizabeth is a certified personal trainer, pole dance instructor and massage therapist from Melbourne, Australia. Her favourite exercise is the chin-up but loves a leg day.
Elizabeth can create you custom programs and give advice that will help you level-up your strength and flexibility training.
If you want Elizabeth to be your coach online or in-person, get in contact with her here.
