Frequently Asked Questions + Policies

What are classes like?

Our studios are bright and airy during the day, with lots of natural light. At night, we have sultry LED lighting for a vibe that makes you want to move!

At the beginning of class, you’ll start with brief introductions, so you know your classmates’ names. Our instructors will get you moving, with a group warmup that starts with full-body, follow-along movement (usually done on mats).

Then, you’ll move into working on choreography or individual skills, depending on the class. Every class is designed to be progressive - meaning we start with the simplest variation of every skill or movement, and add complexity as you get more confident and comfortable. We want you to succeed!

Which level is best?

At our studios, you decide for yourself which level is best for you!

But if you’re new to pole or aerial, don’t worry - we made a guide for you! Depending on your movement background, you might come in with more strength, flexibility, or coordination.

We always recommend that new dancers start with intro-level classes like Pole Foundations or Choreo + Heels Foundations. Pole dancing is unlike any other form of dance or fitness! You’ll need to start with foundational skills, even if you’re already strong.

Will you teach me to dance like a stripper?

Maybe - it depends! Recreational pole owes everything to strippers in the club, and many of our staff members and students are active strippers. We offer stripper-style classes as well as technical, freestyle, conditioning, and tricks-focused classes. We work hard to support and welcome industry dancers (check out our industry scholarships for the Bay and PNW here). If you’re looking to learn stripper-style movement, or you’re an industry dancer looking to broaden your club skillset, we probably have a class for you.

What should I wear?

Wear what makes you feel good! We require only that genitals and anus be covered. Nipples attached to breasts should also be covered but if they slip, we're not mad at it.

For pole, we recommend short-shorts and a tank top or sports bra - but we also love bodysuits, lingerie, or microkinis! If you’re new, it may feel strange to wear so little clothing at first, but you need to have skin exposed in order to stick to the pole. Fabric will slide off the pole. For aerial and flexibility classes, you should wear leggings and a fitted shirt or tank top.

We don’t allow street shoes on studio floors, so any shoes you bring in must be clean and not be worn outside. For heels classes, we require Pleasers or similar stripper style platforms.

Have more specific questions? We’ve got answers!

Don’t see your question here? Get in touch.

Our staff will happily help you out with anything you need.

Drop us a note below and we’ll get back to you!