FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I have never poled before...what do I wear to class?
Wear whatever is going to be most comfortable for you to move your body in. However, you will need skin out to grip onto the pole. We recommend a tank top or sports bra and shorts that expose the backs of your knees as a baseline and then add whatever you need on top to be comfortable (like a t-shirt). Hairties and socks are optional though you may have to take your socks off for pole moves that require direct foot grip!
Please remember to remove any jewelry. Please do not moisturise at least 4 hours before class so you don't slide!
How about aerial hoop...what do I wear?
We recommend any close-fitting, stretchy clothing that covers the entirety of your arms and legs, like long-sleeve fitted shirts and leggings. Hairties are also optional for aerial, though some people find their hair can get a bit stuck on the hoop at times.
Again, please remember to remove any jewelry!
What else should I bring to class?
A water bottle, some layers to put on before and after the class, and a small towel to wipe sweat off, especially during warmer months. Cleaning equipment for the poles is provided in classes. You may see some polers using liquid chalk as this helps with gripping the pole and it’s something you may choose to purchase as you progress in your pole journey.
Where are the studios located?
The Edge building: University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY. The building is situated next to the Sports Training Village on campus. Our classes are held at the art studio on the 2nd floor.
Funky Monkey Studio: 18A, St Peters Terrace, Bath BA2 3BT. To get there from campus, take a U3 bus to Brougham Hayes and then walk 2 minutes.
Soul, Pole and Fitness: Letterbox Studios, 12, Brookside House, High St, Bath BA1 4BY. To get there from campus, take a Uni of Bath bus to Dorchester street, then take the 3 / 4 Bathcity bus to Crown and Anchor and walk 1 minute.
How can I book a class at the Edge?
Timings for our classes can be found in the “classes and courses” tab on our SU website, as well as our booking and timetable post. We will announce when sign ups for classes go live on our SU page (under the sign up tab) via our WhatsApp. Once you’ve signed up, purchase the appropriate product under the “payments” tab within 24 hours of signing up. Do not make any payments before signing up for classes!! The products will be up on our page indefinitely, but paying for a class does not guarantee you a place.
Do I have to be super strong to do pole and/or aerial?
Nope - but we can guarantee you're stronger than you think! Like all sports, you will build up your strength throughout your pole and/or aeria; journey. There will be conditioning incorporated into all classes to help build strength and flexibility. Remember, everyone has to start somewhere!
I’m not flexible...will that be a problem?
Not at all! You will gradually build your flexibility through conditioning in class, and stretching outside of classes can really help your progress.
I’m not a dancer...will that matter?
Nope – all you have to do is move! There are so many different types of pole and aerial styles – flow, spinning, static, tricks, heels… find what speaks to you and go for it.
I've also heard pole dancing and aerial arts are painful...
Pole and aerial moves activate different muscle groups throughout the body – it's really a full body workout! That’s why all classes start with extensive warmup exercises to prepare the joints and muscles, and then the classes will end with cooldown stretches to return your body back to normal. This prevents the possibility of injuries and allows your body to progress without overworking it. Mild muscle aches and pole kisses are expected in pole and aerial. Some moves hurt more than others, but the pain shouldn’t persist after classes. Over time, the pain will eventually lessen as your skin becomes more conditioned, and your brain recognises that the discomfort is safe.
I'm s super nervous to start pole...any advice?
It's normal to feel intimidated when trying something new; remember, you will be surrounded by people who are in the same boat as you and will be guided by experienced teachers and others who have poled! BUPA is a judgement-free environment where you can express yourself freely and find joy and strength through movement. If you have any further questions send a quick message the BUPA Instagram!