You've finally been brave enough to book your first class at SASS, now what?
It can be daunting attending a new class for the first time, particularly if you haven't partaken in exercise since school! Many new students have little knowledge about circus or pole, what it entails and/or are being dragged along to class by someone else (this was me).
The great thing about this is that you have no expectations! It's a great way to enter in to a relationship with our community.
However, there are some things you need to know.
Preparation:
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Know where the studio is.
Our Trowbridge studio is a little hidden, down St George's Works opposite Baloos soft play. There is no parking at the studio so ensure you leave plenty of time. You may be turned away if you miss the warm up!
Our Wincanton studio is easier to find, on the main road in to town past Morrisons and Lidl, on the estate opposite the car wash and gym. We based inside of The Honbu.
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Wear something comfortable.
Aerial:
Wearing lots of layers is important as all aerial apparatus can be painful. Two pairs of leggings is recommended and you need to ensure you can cover your body if needed but still be able to remove layers if you get warm.
Pole:
We allow students to wear leggings or jogging bottoms for the first few weeks if they prefer but at some point you'll need to wear shorts. We also now have a silicone pole at both studios, you do not need to wear shorts on these. We prefer students to be barefoot but heels are welcome. I recommend bringing a pair of socks for choreography every week, just in case, it's hard to slide around beautifully on bare feet. Leg warmers are also great for winter, but not necessary. DO NOT MOISTURISE ON POLE DAYS. I REPEAT DO NOT MOISTURISE ON POLE DAYS.
Yoga/Fitness Classes:
You can wear whatever you're comfortable in, and likely what you would wear to the gym. We provide mats but you may bring your own (with Covid you will need to clean your mat after use).
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On the day:
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You've arrived!
Ensure you get to the studio early as there will likely be forms to fill out. Find out where everything is; the toilet, water, where you can put your things and get changed if you need to. You will be introduced to your instructor, who will explain everything you need to know. Don't be too shy to ask questions! Take LOTS of photographs and videos, you'll want to look back on these later down the line, and you should be proud of your achievements!
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The class.
Every instructor structures their lessons in a different way, depending on their style. Below is a break down of what a typical class looks like:
Warm up: a full body warm up with particular focus on the muscles you'll be using that class!
Strength training: for pole and aerial this is important to ensure you are able to build the strength you need to continue. It may not be fun but it is absolutely necessary and you'll be glad for it later!
Tricks and moves: for both pole and aerial you'll start to learn some tricks that are suitable for your level and how to link them together.
Cool down: this part of the lesson is super important to injury prevention and increasing flexibility. You will be given some time to wind down your practice and then be taken through stretches which focus on the muscles you have used.
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Etiquette.
There is behaviour that we expect from our students, the first and most important is that we always treat each other and ourselves with love and respect. We do not tolerate bullying, rudeness or self criticism. It's also important to not talk over your instructor, pay attention and not try anything you have not be personally taught. This is for your safety. It's rare but there may be times when groups are mixed ability, do not copy other students.
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Enjoy!
Don't put pressure on yourself to achieve certain things or compare yourself to others. This is your journey and your journey alone! If you are progressing then your instructor will be super happy and you are NOT holding the class up. Cheer for others, cheer for yourself and get involved with our community. Everyone is welcome to social events, shows and the like. Show up!
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Pole specific:
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Spinning or Static.
The poles you use may be spinning or static. Most beginner classes at SASS use spinning as it is generally safer for your shoulders. It can take some time to get used to the spinning motion on either type of pole, usually within a few weeks any symptoms of dizziness or sickness go entirely. Take it slow to begin with, you will learn to control your spin speed, and let you instructor know of any concerns. They will adjust their teaching to help you!
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Small hands/big hands/sweaty hands.
We have different sized poles, if you have little hands you may find that a 40mm pole is better suited to you. Your instructor will advise you. If you have sweaty/slippy hands then you may be better off using a silicone pole, which has a coating to provide grip.
Sweaty hands are the curse of pole dancers everywhere. There is lots you can do to help.
Firstly NEVER MOISTURISE ON POLE DAYS. This is the cardinal sin of pole dancing. Not only will you be slippy, but you will make anyone who uses the pole after you slippy also. They will hate you.
Wash your hands before and during class. It's not a long term solution but it can make a difference.
Use a smaller pole - the smaller diameter will help if hand size and strength is the issue.
Clean your pole. We usually provide something to clean the poles with. Always clean your pole before class, regularly during, and after. Beginners never clean their poles enough. On slippy hot sweaty days you may need to clean your pole between every move!
Buy a grip aid for sweaty OR dry skin. Grip aids come in many forms and are used across the board by pole dancers it is not cheating! There are different grip aids for different ailments. Always ask your instructor, some grip aids are not to be used on certain pole finishes and your instructor may have a product they prefer. I personally recommend Dry Hands, for hands!, and Dew Point, for the body and for those of you with dry skin.
Use a grippy pole! Both studios have one silicone pole for use if you are slippy or wish to keep your clothes on. You should try a normal pole first, as to ensure you are building good grip strength.
And remember; your hands and arms will get stronger, allowing you to hold your spins and moves for longer. Patience is the best solution for slippy hands!
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Aerial Specific:
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There isn't a whole lot specific to aerial you need to know! The most important thing with aerial is that the learning curve can be steep and it is absolutely normal for most students to need assistance in the beginning, but give it a few weeks and you'll see huge improvements.
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You may wish to use some form of grip aid if you have slippy hands. A product like Dry Hands works best for aerial hoop and a Rosin based grip works best for aerial silks. As previously mentioned ensure you can be well covered and are in clothing that allows you to move easily.
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After Class:
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Feedback.
Let your instructor know how they did! Honest constructive feedback is a helpful tool for growing a business. Whether bad or good, we love to hear it. You may even wish to pop a review on our facebook page to show your appreciation!
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Share your journey!
Post up your photographs, your videos, let everyone know about your new hobby. Some individuals still have an issue with pole dancing, but the majority of people now understand that pole is not a dirty sin to be hidden but a wonderful form of exercise and expression. Don't be shy! And your recommendation, your enjoyment, does more for our industry than any advertising we could pay for...
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Look after yourself.
I remember being sore for an entire week after my first class. Putting on and taking off clothing was interesting, to say the least. Take a warm bath, do some gentle stretching. REST. In the weeks to come your recovery time will get shorter. It will get easier, your body will get stronger.
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Get excited for your next class!
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