What to Wear for Pole Class: Your Essential Comfort and Confidence Guide
- Pole Impact
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
Whether it’s your first pole class or your hundredth spin, how you dress plays a large role in your movements and your confidence level. At Pole Impact, we embrace all body types, abilities, and styles—this includes how you choose to show up for yourself in class.
Here’s your comprehensive guide on what to wear (and why) for pole fitness.
What to wear to pole class:
The Basics: Grip Is Everything
Pole dancing relies heavily on skin contact to help you grip the pole securely. That's why your choice of clothing is about more than looking good—it's about performing well.
Recommended:
Top: A supportive sports bra, a fitted crop top, or a tank that allows unimpeded arm and shoulder movement.
Bottom: Opt for pole shorts or fitted athletic shorts that expose enough skin for a solid grip on the pole.
Avoid:
Loose clothing that can wrap around the pole or limit your movements.
Long pants and long sleeves.
If you're just starting out and are hesitant about revealing skin, shorts paired with a tank top are a suitable choice. As you gain confidence, you will naturally experiment with styles that allow for better grip.
Feet First: Barefoot or Heels?
Deciding whether to go barefoot or wear heels can greatly affect your pole dancing experience.
Barefoot: This is ideal for newcomers and most fitness-focused classes because it provides stability and a better sense of grounding.
Heels: These are perfect for choreography, HIIT, or exotic classes. Ensure they are designed specifically for pole dancing, featuring ankle support and non-slip soles—Pleasers and Hella Heels brand shoes are both a reliable choice for many dancers.
Remember: No street shoes allowed. Keeping the floor and poles clean benefits everyone in the class!
Optional Gear to Level Up
To enhance your pole dancing experience, consider these additional items:
Knee Pads: Essential for floorwork, they protect your knees and help you focus on your moves without discomfort.
Grip Aids: If you experience sweaty hands or have dry skin, products such as Monkey Hands or Dry Hands can enhance grip significantly. iTac is a good choice for leg grip. Dancers report significant improvement in their grip when using these aids.
Think about adding leg warmers or sweats for warming up before class. They keep your muscles warm and can be quickly removed when you're ready to start moving.
Studio Etiquette: Clean, Safe, and Confident
Practicing studio etiquette is crucial for an enjoyable experience in your pole class.
No Lotions or Oils: Applying these before class makes the pole slippery, creating safety hazards for you and others.
Towel & Alcohol: Wipe down the pole after your turn to maintain a clean and safe environment. We have plenty of spray bottles and clean rags for use.
Respect Personal Space: While pole dancing fosters a sense of community, it's important to remain mindful of those around you. Ask others if it's okay to take a video if they are in your frame.
Layering for Comfort
Layering your attire can help keep you comfortable throughout the class.
Start with a Base Layer: A fitted tank or sports bra serves as a great initial layer.
Add a Warm Layer: If it's cool, include a lightweight long-sleeve top or zip-up hoodie that can be easily removed as you heat up.
Transition Wisely: Choose layers that you can quickly take off when moving from warm-up to practice to maintain a comfortable body temperature.
Preparing for Class
Preparation leads to success in your pole class.
Pack the Night Before: Have everything you need—clothing, grip aids, water, and a towel. Being organized sets a positive tone for your practice.
Arrive Early: Giving yourself time to warm up and mentally prepare can enhance your overall experience.
Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water, both before and after class, to keep your body operating optimally.
Embracing Your Journey
Remember, every pole dancer's journey is uniquely their own.
Practice Patience: Feelings of nervousness are natural, especially if you’re just beginning.
Celebrate Small Wins: No accomplishment is too small to recognize, so take time to appreciate your progress, no matter how slight.
Build Community: Connecting with classmates and instructors can enrich your experience and make you feel more at home in class.
Wrapping Up
Your choice of what to wear for pole class can greatly influence your comfort and confidence. By selecting the right gear, you can elevate both your performance and enjoyment on the pole.
Embrace your unique style, adhere to studio etiquette, and prepare adequately for each class. Most importantly, enjoy the journey of pole dancing!
With the right attitude and attire, you’ll be ready to take to the pole with confidence!
Don't miss out on our exciting free pole foundations class every other Saturday at 10am! Join us for some fun and fitness! See you soon!
Comments