Why I Don’t Teach Pole Like a Drill Sergeant — and Why That Matters

(Aka: I’ll push you hard, but I’ll also cheer you on like a proud mum)

There’s this idea some people have that pole fitness means turning up to a class where someone yells at you, forces you to do burpees, and tells you to "leave your excuses at the door."

Yeah, no thanks. That’s not my vibe at all.

In my pole classes here in Guiseley, we laugh. We wobble. We cheer each other on when we nail something — and when we don’t. It’s sweaty, sometimes a bit chaotic, and always supportive.

I’m not here to break you. I’m here to help you build.

Yes — I do push people. Quite hard, actually! But never in a shouty, shamey, “you should be better than this” kind of way.

It’s more like: “I know you can do this.” “Go on — try it one more time.” “Yes, that was brilliant — do it again so I can film it!”

Because the truth is, I care. I pay attention. I notice when someone’s struggling, or tired, or just not in the right headspace that day. And I’ll always adjust. Sometimes you need a push. Sometimes you just need to be in the room.

In fact, I’ve even had people come along and say, “I don’t think I can face the exercise today, but I needed the atmosphere. ”And that’s completely valid. Just being there, soaking up the energy, being part of something — that’s healing too.

That’s still pole. That’s still growth.

Pole classes should feel like a safe space — not a test you’re trying to pass.

For a lot of people (especially if you’re neurodivergent, anxious, or just fed up with toxic fitness culture), this might be the first time you’ve moved your body in a way that feels good.

And that’s huge. I don’t take that lightly. I want you to feel strong — not punished. Proud — not panicked .This isn’t school PE. This is your time.

And weirdly? That’s why people do get stronger. Because when you feel seen, supported, and celebrated, you want to keep going. You want to try again. You believe you can.

That’s when the magic happens.

So if you’re looking for pole classes near Guiseley...

And you’re thinking: “I’m not confident enough yet” or “I’ll be the worst one there ”or“ What if I can’t do it?”

I get it. Loads of my students started out thinking the exact same thing. But they came. They tried. And now they’re hooked.

Pole is for you, exactly as you are. No fitness background needed. No need to be bendy or brave. Just come with an open mind — and maybe some grippy leggings.

🖤 Ready to give it a go?

I run supportive, friendly, inclusive pole fitness classes in Guiseley for absolute beginners and beyond.

Small class sizes, good vibes, and a teacher (hi!) who will absolutely believe in you — even when you don’t quite believe in yourself yet.