Wendy B.
Yelp
I have been taking pole classes at Body & Pole for about 9 months, and I love it. I have never been athletic, coordinated, or a good dancer. I was one of those kids who couldn't climb the rope in gym class, like not even an inch. But now I can climb to the top of the pole easily and I have upper body strength that I've never had in my life. I should probably mention that I'm over 50 too!
The instructors I've gone to have been kind and encouraging, including in those classes where I've been absolutely new to the level and unable to get a single move right! I do NOT react well to negativity in teaching, so if there had been ANY of that, I would have been out of there in a flash. A couple of times, I was so frustrated that I secretly wanted to bolt, but then the instructor pointed out my progress and told me I'd get there over time. I normally take my pole classes with Suzanne-Michelle, Alex, and Butchie. I like Daniel too. I recently started taking flex classes, which are even harder for me than pole. I've never been limber AT ALL. Donna was patient and helpful.
Things you should know:
- It's very easy to sign up for and cancel the classes via the app and website.
- You won't click with every instructor, but you'll click with some! If you're not crazy about one, try another.
- You can't be late to class. There's a five-minute grace period. Let's face it, it's hugely distracting to other students when someone strolls in late. Don't try to cram this class into your day. Go when you know you have enough time. If your schedule is unpredictable or you do a lot of traveling, consider that before you invest in a package that has an expiration date. It would be better to take fewer (albeit more expensive) classes than try to save money with a package and not be able to make it.
- You have to give 24 hours cancellation notice if you can't make it, or you'll still be charged. It sucks but it's typical in NYC of everything from classes to doctors' appointments. I woke up one morning feeling horribly sick and called to tell them just so they could put someone else in the class -- I was not even expecting a credit, but they said they could give me a one-time exception. I see from the reviews that some people are offended by that statement, but I was surprised and relieved.
- The two or three times I've been on the waitlist for a class I've gotten in.
- There are six poles in a class and up to 12 students, so you share a pole. I was startled by this at first but honestly it's for the best. It can be too exhausting to be on the pole nonstop by yourself! And if you're having trouble getting the moves down, it's helpful to step back and watch everyone else do it. Everyone in my classes has been good about wiping down the poles before switching with their pole partner. I feel like it's much more roomy than most dance/cardio classes where a gym or school can cram 50 people into a studio.
- You can rent mats and kneepads at the front desk for $1 each, or you can bring your own.
- Check the recommended clothing for each class on the website so you're dressed appropriately. You're not going to be able to climb a pole wearing leggings. The shortest possible shorts (or briefs or a thong) are the best bet. In other classes, you do want your legs to be covered. You can't wear rings or bracelets or watches while on the pole.
- The studios and equipment are nice and clean.
- During the worst covid times, everyone (instructors and students) were great at staying masked. Now masks are optional. I'm still wearing a mask because I'm careful that way.
- You can take a video of yourself at the end of class -- the instructors will let you know when.
- There will be a big range of abilities in each class because, for example, some people are taking their first Level 2 class and some people are taking their 20th. I've found the instructors good about offering options for various abilities.
- Most important: If you're not athletic (and sometimes even if you are, according to one bodybuilder) you'll probably want to cry at some point! Especially when you go up a level. Level 1 is a big leap up from Intro (and I took 7 intro classes), and then Level 2 feels radically harder than Level 1. It's frustrating and can feel hopeless, especially if you're surrounded by people who have been taking the class a long time, but it's not hopeless! It just requires practice. If you're not strong, you gain the strength through the classes.