Debunking 5 Common Pole Dancing Myths

So you’ve been thinking about trying pole, but something’s stopping you? Totally normal. We hear it all the time—and guess what? You’re not alone.

Whether you’re worried you’ll need a dance résumé or you're convinced only bendy 20-year-olds are allowed to pole, Let’s clear things up by tackling five of the most common myths—straight from the polling data we gathered from our own students. This is the pep talk you didn’t know you needed!

Myth #1: “All Pole Classes Are Sensual and Sexy”

This is probably the biggest myth we hear—and sure, pole has sexy roots, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle.

Modern pole is a full buffet: there’s strong, lyrical, expressive, and yes, sensual styles. You can wear 8" heels or bare feet. You can channel Beyoncé or your inner gymnast. No sultry moves required unless you want them.

At Pole Athletica, we offer everything from:

• PoleFit (strength + technique)
• Lyrical Flow (barefoot, expressive)
• Exo Flow (yep, the sensual stuff—but totally optional)

Pole can be athletic, artistic, sensual, or all three—you call the shots.

Myth #2: “You Have to Be Strong to Start”

Let’s put this one to rest once and for all: You don’t need to be strong to start. You get strong by doing pole.

PA student Matt in a "pole sit"

Our beginner classes are literally designed to help you build strength safely, step by step. You’ll start with basics like Hook Spins and Pole Sits—kind of like sneaky strength training in disguise. Some of our students couldn’t do a single push-up when they started - weeks later, they were climbing and spinning.. Actual magic? Nope. Just smart, progressive training.

Pole doesn’t demand strength - it creates it.

Myth #3: “I’m Not Flexible Enough”

Stretchy hamstrings and bendy backs are great… but totally not required to get started.

You’ll warm up, build mobility, and improve flexibility as you go. It’s not a yoga audition. Just bring your body exactly as it is.

PA Student Muy became flexible through pole

Need inspo? Take Muy, one of our longtime students: "I never thought I’d achieve a flat split, but with persistence, I can see it’s possible—even as I get older. I’ve also gone from shy beginner to choreographing my own routines!"

Pole meets you where you’re at. Not Cirque du Soleil-ready? Neither were we!

Myth #4: “I Don’t Have a Dance Background”

Zero dance experience? Welcome. You’re our people.

The truth? You don’t need to be a dancer to excel at pole—many of the world’s top pole artists started with zero dance training.

At PA, we offer both skill-focused and dance-focused classes, so you can choose what suits you best. Our PoleFit programs are designed for all levels, teaching strength, technique, and control from the ground up. And if you ever want to explore dance elements like fluidity, musicality, or choreography? We’ve got Lyrical Flow, Exo Flow, and other expressive classes—but they’re optional.

Take Joanna, now in Level 7: "I couldn’t dance at all when I started—now I’m strong, confident, and upside down more often than not! The classes break everything down so anyone can learn."

Whether you want to spin, strut, or skip choreography entirely—you do you!

Myth #5: “Isn’t Pole Just for Young People?”

Pole has no age limit. None. Zilch. It’s for anybody with a body. Here’s proof:

• American poler, Mary Serritella started at 57 and is still inspiring others at 71.
• Allan Reinikka, an Aussie poler, began at 61 and never looked back.
• Countless students in their 40s, 50s, and beyond train with us weekly.
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American pole dancer, Mary Serritella at 71 years young!

Pole isn’t just fun—it’s functional. It supports bone density, coordination, and strength (goodbye, osteoporosis). Plus, the community? Seriously uplifting.

The best time to start pole? When you’re ready. Age is just a background detail.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Try Something Unexpectedly Amazing?

Pole isn’t just a workout—it’s a mood boost, a confidence builder, and sometimes a giggle-fest (hello, super silly pole bloopers).

If you’ve ever thought, “Could I really do this?” the answer is: YES! You absolutely can.

The hardest part is walking through the door—after that, we’ve got you. We’ll guide you from nervous newbie to total badass (at your own pace, of course).

Still unsure? Swing by or drop us a line. Whatever helps you take the first step—we’re here for it.

With love,

Jennifer Grace xoxo