F.A.Q.

Q: I’ve never taken a class, where do I start?
A: We offer Try It classes - come and see what we’re about. If there are no available Try It classes you can sign up for the Intro to Pole class. Intro to Pole is designed for new students!

Q: How much are classes?
A: Class costs vary depending if you are purchasing a single ‘drop in’ ticket, a class pass, or studio membership. There are more details about pricing under the Prices header, or follow the link through to the booking site .

Q: How many students are there per class?
A: Most classes are 3-5 students plus the instructor - small and sweet. Some classes like Flexibility, and Strength and Conditioning may have a larger size - up to 10 students.

Q: How long are classes?
A: Classes are roughly 60 minutes.

Q: I am not in shape, I'm clumsy, I can't dance, I'm not flexible, I am no spring chicken, I've never done something like this before - would this class be ok for me?
A: Yes! We teach all ages (18+), shapes, and sizes - every body can learn to pole! We teach regressions and progressions to all tricks, meaning you can adapt according to your needs.

Q: What do I wear or bring?
A: Shorts, sports bra, tank top (layers you can remove if you're comfortable). Barefoot is the most comfortable for most. Don't forget a water bottle. You need skin to contact with the pole to safely hold positions, please do not wear leggings or long sleeves. No lotions and perfumes, no jewelry either. For Heels classes you will need knee pads (sold in studio) and heels (available to borrow in select sizes at the studio).

Q: I'm nervous about trying to be 'sexy' – am I going to have to wear stripper shoes?
A: NO! You can bring whatever vibe you are comfortable with. It is not a requirement to be sexy at pole class, to wear revealing clothing, or shoes. You just need to show up and have fun. Occasionally you may be guided by the instructor to adjust your shorts or top for more skin contact (such as rolling in sleeves for arm contact, tucking in a shirt for belly contact, adjusting shorts for inner thigh contact etc.) in order to utilize a grip point.

Q: I'm nervous about other people knowing I'm taking a class, should I still try it?
A: Ascension Aerials is a private studio, and your privacy is important to us. We want all students to feel safe. You don’t need to tell anyone that you don’t want to about your participation in classes. Our studio is in a remote location and is not marked or advertised on the road.

Q: I’ve taken pole classes with another studio; do I have to start at the beginning?
A: We are happy to assess students with previous experience to ensure that they are taking a class where they feel comfortable and safe. Studio to studio there can be many differences in teaching styles and techniques. Send us an email and we will find the class for your ability. Please expect that you will need to book a private lesson to asses your skill level and be placed in the appropriate class.

Q: Are there other options outside of group classes? I’m too shy to learn with others.
A: YES! We provide semi-private ($50 each) and private lessons ($80 each). Private and Semi-private lessons are customizable for the clients’ interests and goals. Please contact us to book!

Q: None of the listed class dates and times work for me, is there more availability for other classes?
A; Yes, please contact us to inquire about dates and times that can work for you.

Q: I have a group of friends and we’d like to take classes together. Can this be accommodated?
A: Absolutely, contact us directly to set up a date and time for you and your friends.

Q: Are men allowed in class?
A: Yes. Our classes are accessible to everyone who is serious about learning. We strive to be an inclusive space that is comfortable and safe for all people.

Q: Is there an age requirement for classes?
A: Yes, all clients must be 18 years of age or older to attend classes at our studio.

Q: Do I have to be strong to do pole or aerial? I have no upper body strength!
A: Nope. Each class has a strengthening and condition component to it. You will gain strength over time as you learn. Everyone starts at the beginning, whether you're jacked or not!

Q: Is pole or aerial safe?
A: Our Instructors teach according to the Canadian Pole Fitness Association standards as per their certification requirements. Our equipment is maintained and checked regularly to ensure its safety and is installed as per the industry guidelines and standards. Safety is a priority in all classes! And of course, we are covered by insurance.

Q: Do you sell gift certificates?
A: Yes! If you would like to purchase a gift certificate, please email us and we will set it up for you!

Q: Do you host bachelorette parties?
A: You bet, we host parties for any occasion – birthday, bachelorette, you name it! Please contact us for more information. We offer both in studio and on - location parties.

Q: How do the levels work? What class should I register for?
A: Pole and Aerial are a challenging sport, and students often want to move up and out of beginner level before they're ready. Levels are determined by the instructor; everyone starts at the beginning and works their way up - even if they have previous experience, sometimes it is necessary to go back to the start to rebuild strength. Safety is a priority, we want to be sure students are ready with the appropriate strength and confidence to move on to harder tricks.

Q: How do I advance through the levels?
A: Most clients discover very quickly that pole is not as easy as it looks and takes practice. Even people who are very fit and exercise regularly usually feel muscle soreness after class. The studio uses a curriculum to evaluate the readiness of students to move up to the next level.
Students who are prepared to invest in their pole journey and commit to regular class attendance find that within 8-12 classes they can safely perform, with proper technique, the tricks and spins of each level. As students advance, this time frame may increase with the difficulty of the tricks. Students who commit to classes twice a week, coming to open practice, or who purchase a pole for their home, may find they progress more quickly. Cross-training (taking other forms of fitness classes) is also an important addition.
Injury occurs most often when students attempt a technique that their body is not yet ready for. It takes time to develop skills and strength required to make more difficult tricks attainable.