THE POD KONA
Pole | Yoga | Fitness | Massage | Community | Retreats
POLE SERVICES
ADDITIONAL OFFERINGS
Don't forget to check for prerequisites when signing up!
How Our Pole Classes Work
Almost all of our classes are offered on a drop-in basis, meaning there is no commitment from you. You can sign up for any class that you meet the prerequisites for, whether it be a Level Class, Choreo, Specialty, or Open Pole so long as there is availability in the class (we have an 8 person maximum). This means you are not stuck in a single level and you have the opportunity to take any of the lower level classes to refresh yourself or even just to enjoy a less intense class that day. It also means, if you know you're a person who just isn't going to make it to 2 classes per week, you can buy a smaller package and take a class here and there when you are able. Visitors are also eligible to attend any level appropriate class.
If you are looking to progress through each level, it is HIGHLY recommended that you sign up for the entire 5 week curriculum for PROGRESSIVE LEVEL CLASSES. These classes meet 2x per week for 5 weeks and slowly build on what you have learned the previous class while continuing to condition your body for more advanced pole tricks. Once the 5 weeks is up, the class will start from the beginning again. In order to graduate to the next level, you will need to complete all of the classes in that level and successfully execute each primary skill. If you miss a class, find out from your instructor what you missed and the next time it will be offered, so you can take the class then. Alternatively, you can sign up for a private lesson with your instructor to learn what you missed, so you can advance to the next level. Each student will have a skills sheet that is accessible to both them and their instructors, so you will always be able to see the progress you have made. Because our classes are offered on a drop-in basis, they will fill up fast. So, if you know you want to take an entire 5 week level series, make sure you sign up for all the classes in advance.
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*The only classes that require a commitment are our Intro to Pole series (2x per week for 5 weeks) and our Closed Choreos.
PROGRESSIVE LEVEL CLASSES
Our progressive level classes are run in 5 week sessions. Classes meet 2x per week in a linear progression and restart at the end of the 5 weeks. In order to progress to the next level, you must attend each of the 10 classes in the curriculum and successfully execute each of the foundational skills. If you are struggling with something, talk to your instructor about private lessons.
CHOREOGRAPHY
Our Choreo classes link dance moves to music to create a fun flow. They circulate between heels, no heels, sneakers, socks, spin, static, theatrical, rock, slink, low flow, and more! There are varying levels of difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced. Students learn as much of the choreo as they can over the course of a single class (60 minutes). Remember to check prerequisites when registering. Each class will be labeled as Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, or All Levels. There is no commitment required to attend a Choreo class.
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We also offer Closed Choreos. These classes focus on specific themes or styles, and meet 1x per week over the course of 4-6 weeks. Students are grouped together based on their skill level, style requests, and availability. Classes build on one another to produce a routine to a single song. Closed Choreos require instructor approval and students must commit to all 4-6 weeks. Complete a Closed Choreo Request Form in order to sign up.
SPECIALTY CLASSES
Our specialty classes are for students who would like something different than the regular skills based level classes. Examples include: Movement Sanctuary (heels, spin, floor), Heels Up the Pole, Pole Lab, Pole Basics, Edgework, Floor Flow, etc. Remember to check pre-requisites when signing up. Each class will be labeled as Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, or All Levels. There is no commitment to attend a Specialty Class.
PRACTICE/OPEN POLE
Open Pole is your chance to practice and refine the things you have learned in your other classes. Think of it as study hall. Come get creative, put a flow together, or work on skills you have learned in other classes. Please note: this is a 1-hour unsupervised pole rental. There is no commitment to attend., though we do offer unlimited open pole memberships.
Prerequisites: Must have successfully completed Intro to Pole to attend an Open Pole session.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons can be taken individually or shared between up to 3 students. They are great for getting caught up on anything you missed in a progressive level class, learning specific moves that interest you, working on flow, practicing with an instructor one-on-one, creating your own choreography or simply having fun with some friends. You are now able to schedule and book your own & shared private lessons directly via Bookee.
MISSED CLASSES
All classes are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you cannot make it to a registered class, you must cancel the class online at least 4 hours prior to the start time to avoid being charged. As most of our classes are drop-ins, no make-up classes will be permitted.
POLE CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
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I have never taken a class before, where do I begin?Everyone's journey begins at Intro to Pole. This is a 5 week series that meets 2 x per week. Hesitant to commit? Take a Pole Basics taster class. This is a 60 minute sampling of our 5 week Intro to Pole series. You may also drop in to one of our many beginner pole Specialty classes, including Movement Sanctuary: A low impact, open to anyone, no experience necessary somatic movement class. We also offer yoga and other strength and flexibility training classes off the pole to prepare your body for more fun to come!
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It's my first time, what do I wear?For most pole classes you will need to wear shorts so that you can use the skin on your legs to grip the pole. You should also wear a top that you are comfortable exercising in. Tank top or a sports bra is ideal. Definitely nothing with snaps or buttons (it can scratch the surface of the pole losing the shiny finish). Most of all, wear what you feel most confident in! Although access to skin helps with sticking to the pole (and many dancers tend to decrease the amount of fabric in their outfits as they progress to access more skin for grip) many pole clothing companies sell "sticky" pole attire if you prefer to stay covered up.
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Do I have to have upper body strength, be fit, be flexible?Pole sport is suitable for individuals at any level of fitness. Starting from the basics, we will guide you step by step, gradually improving your strength and conditioning.
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Am I too old, too big, too out of shape, too inflexible to take pole??Absolutely not! A lot of times, these descriptors are simply fallacies we tell ourselves to avoid being vulnerable and trying new things. Maybe we're afraid of failure or standing out or think that if we can't DO something it makes us less than. That couldn't be further from the truth. Pole dancing is a beautiful sport for EVERYbody, and it's never too late to start. The pole community is one of the most inclusive, supportive, and judgement-free groups out there. No matter where you are when you begin, progress will follow as long as you're showing up and enjoying the process.
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Is Pole safe?Performing pole skills/tricks can be a high-risk physical activity that should not be underestimated. However, safety is always our top priority during classes. We start by strengthening and conditioning your body to ensure that when the time comes to perform a certain move, your body is prepared. We also focus on teaching you the correct techniques and body mechanics, as well as providing support in the form of physical spotting every step along your journey, minimizing the risk of injuries. Additionally, we have crash mats available in the studio for moves where you feel a little less confident. Alternatively, we offer a variety of other classes that are not skills/tricks based, if you find that form of pole maybe isn't your thing right now.
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How often should I take class?Students are more likely to succeed in pole when they learn sequentially and systematically with a regular training schedule. It gives the body an opportunity to build the endurance, strength and pain tolerance needed in a safe and structured environment. Therefore, we recommend taking classes at 2x per week for a consecutive 5 weeks or more.
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What are all those bruises I always hear about?Bruises, also known as "pole kisses" are very common for pole dancers, especially in the early stages of training. They occur at the contact points where the skin touches the pole. With regular practice and continued conditioning and strength building, you will gradually adapt and find they happen less frequently. They are often seen as a badge of honor among the pole community.
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Do I have to wear those MONSTER heels?Only if you want to! All of our Progressive Level classes are taught barefoot. When most people hear pole dancing they tend to think of strip clubs. While the sensual side is still very present there are actually three main branches of pole dancing; Sport, Art and Sexy. We have classes available to express each of those! Heels are a culture of their own and can be super fun. If you're unsure, pop into one of our Intro to Heels classes or sign up for a beginner choreo to see what they're all about.
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I'm shy and worried I will feel too awkward in class...Dont be worried! Pole is one of the most supportive and uplifting communities out there. You wont just leave with a good workout, you might also leave with new friends! Come in and try a class, if its too uncomfortable you can always look into Private Lessons or Semi-Privates with friend!
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Why are my hands always so slippery?GRIP STRENGTH is crucial, requires a lot of practice, and builds over time. You can try to improve your grip strength by exercising with different hand strengthening tools. Use of a hand gripper also strengthens the wrists, which is very important for pole. SWEATY HANDS can be a significant issue for many. It is good a first to practice with sweaty hands because it helps you build that grip strength we were talking about. However, wet palms do become a hindrance when you get to more challenging tricks which is why we have grip aids available for purchase that are designed for pole dancing.
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Can Pole replace my usual fitness routine?Absolutely! Pole progressive level training engages almost all muscle and fascia groups, as well as cardio, providing a comprehensive workout.
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I have taken a class before, where should I start?Check our level prerequisites. If you're still unsure, send us a message! We're happy to help.
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Can my child/partner/cat/barista sit in the corner and watch?The Pod has a strict policy that the only people in the classroom be participants and instructors. While we love the idea of you sharing your passion take pictures or videos and save class time for just YOU.
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What can I expect?
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I'm not flexible. Can I still take pole?Flexibility develops through time and training. Even if you have never practiced before, you will definitely improve your flexibility and movement quality. The key is consistency in your practice!