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Try Something Different: A Pole Dancing Trial Class at VI-Dance

by Kathrin Morochnyk

Few sports are surrounded by as many assumptions as pole dancing. If you are tired of doing the same things every weekend and want to try something completely different, a pole dancing trial class in Essen might be exactly what you didn't know you were looking for. That was certainly the case for me. I had never thought about trying pole dancing. To be honest, it wasn’t even something I had ever considered. One of my best friends suggested giving it a try and around the same time, I noticed that my university offered pole dancing classes through Hochschulsport in cooperation with VI-Dance. I signed up expecting to attend a few classes and then move on to another hobby. I was completely wrong.

After my first class, I was probably the happiest person on my way home. Not because I was good at it. Trust me, I wasn’t. During the first lesson, we learned how to climb the pole and tried a few basic spins and tricks. None of it came naturally to me, but somehow that didn’t matter. I couldn't wait to go back the following week. The reason I kept coming back was seeing what I was capable of. At first, I could barely climb the pole. A few months later, I was doing tricks that seemed impossible only weeks earlier. That feeling made me excited for every class.

What stood out to me from my very first class was that, even though everyone trains on their own pole, it never feels like you are on your own. Every time someone finally manages to do a new trick, the whole class starts clapping. It does not matter whether it is your first climb or a difficult inversion. Everyone celebrates each other’s progress, which creates such a supportive atmosphere. The first time I had to let go of one hand or hang upside down, I honestly didn’t think I could do it. Of course, your trainer is always there to help, but sooner or later you have to trust yourself. Looking back, overcoming the fear became one of my favourite parts of learning pole dancing.

What still makes me laugh is that you somehow end up having completely normal conversations while hanging upside down or trying not to fall off the pole. It sounds strange, but after a while it feels completely normal. There is always music playing, people are laughing and everyone encourages each other. I have tried a few different sports over the years, but I have never experienced a community quite like this one.

Some classes focus on learning tricks and building strength, while others are all about dancing and choreography. VI-Dance is also incredibly flexible. Instead of committing to a weekly course straight away, you can simply book a trial class. If you enjoy learning tricks and building strength, a technical class is probably the right choice. If you prefer dancing, you can join a choreography class instead. There are even spinning classes, which feel completely different from training on a static pole. Before my first class, I had no idea that poles could even spin.

If you decide to book a trial class, you do not have to worry about being thrown straight into difficult tricks. VI-Dance offers classes for different levels, so beginners train with other beginners and more experienced students have their own classes. Every lesson starts with a warm-up, followed by stretching and strength exercises before you move on to the pole. After the trainer demonstrates a new move and explains the technique, everyone gets the chance to practise it at their own pace. The trainer goes around the room, watches each person individually, gives tips and if needed spots you while you try the move. I really appreciated how much attention the trainers paid to proper technique. Every movement is explained carefully to make sure you stay safe and avoid injuries. There is never any pressure to get a trick right immediately. Instead, the classes are fun and relaxed, even when something does not work on the first try.

A trial class costs around €20, making it an affordable way to find out if you enjoy pole dancing. The studio is located right next to Club Delta and is easy to reach by public transport, making it a convenient choice even if you do not live in the area. One of the biggest advantages is how easily it fits into everyday life. If you are looking for something to do on a rainy afternoon, want to break out of your usual routine or simply try something completely different, pole dancing is an activity that works all year round. You can come on your own and meet new people. Many people end up making friends simply because everyone is learning together. If you decide to bring a friend, you can spot each other, laugh about failed attempts and share an experience that is far more memorable than another gym session.

There are just a few things you should know before your first class. Wear shorts or other clothing that allows your skin to grip the pole. It might feel unusual at first, but long leggings make climbing much more difficult. Of course, wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Avoid using body lotion before class because it makes the pole slippery and reduces your grip. Bring some water, be ready for a few bruises and do not worry if you cannot do much in your first lesson. Nobody can. Everyone starts with the basics and that is completely normal.

Looking back, I only wanted to experience something new. Instead, I found an activity that I still look forward to every week. Whether you decide to come alone or bring a friend, a trial class at VI-Dance is a fun way to step outside your comfort zone. You do not need any previous experience or exceptional upper body strength to get started. Everyone starts somewhere. You might leave with a few bruises, but you will also leave looking forward to your next class.