How to Start:
1. Our first level is Introduction, then Beginner. Starting with Beginner level is OK, but may be more difficult than you expect.
2. Take up to 12 Introduction level ( L. 1) classes or 1-3 Intro To Pole Courses to prepare for Beginner level.
3. Pole Tricks and Pole Choreo classes are different. Class descriptions are below and in the Schedule.
4. No background or special preparation is needed for both Introduction and Beginner level classes.
Levels and Prerequisites
1. Introduction (L.1) - NONE. Start here.
2. Beginner (L.1-2) - None. Although studio recommends up to 12 Introduction level classes.
3. Intermediate-Prep (L.3) - 1 year or: Climb, Layback, Inverted Crucifix, Static V, OLH, Chair Spin.
4. Intermediate (L.4) - 2 years or: OLH/ILH, Superman, Brass Monkey, Inverted Straddle.
5. Advanced (L.5) - 3 years, plus Aerial Shoulder Mount and Twisted / True Grip Handsprings.
Prerequisite Elements need to be performed 3 times on each side (3 seconds hold).
Email YouTube or IG link to akpoleinfo@gmail.com (up to 2 weeks to review).
See Elements Illustrations: Google Docs
Video Demo: Google Drive, YouTube, Instagram.
Class Descriptions
Pole Tricks
Pole Tricks is a fitness workout class. It is not a "sexy" class. Pole Tricks classes focus strictly on the athletic side of pole sport. There is plenty of conditioning here - students develop a lot of core and upper body strength along with flexibility and mobility. Pole Tricks classes do not require pre-training. Start by signing up for the Introduction level.
You will learn how to spin, climb, invert (go upside down), and create shapes in the air, no matter how strong your are to start. Our training programs develop the foundational muscles and skills gradually and step by step. Leave your worries at the door and begin a new journey built on strength, confidence, power, and grace.
Attire for Pole Tricks classes: shorts and a tank.
Shoes are not needed.
Pole Choreo
Pole Dance class is sexy! Tricks, spins, high heels, glitter, seduction - have it all here. This is where you become a pole dance goddess. Class combines choreography in heels, pole tricks and floor transitions. You will develop, graceful fluidity of the movement, and become confident. After just one class, students feel beautiful, empowered, and hungry for more.
Pole Choreo classes do not require a dance background or a fitness background. Start by signing up for the Introduction level (L.1)
Attire for Pole Dance classes: shorts / leggings, socks and a tank. Knee pads needed. Shoes are optional.
Both, knee pads and shoes are available for rent at the studio ($5).
Flexibility Class
Ever dreamed of doing the splits? Our coaches have got you covered!
Trained in flexibility, mobility and yoga disciplines, our instructors help students develop healthy and effective stretching practices to achieve their flexibility goals. Come ready for conditioning, active flexibility exercises,
and deep full-body stretches that range from relaxing to challenging.
All flexibility levels are welcome here. You do not have to attend pole or dance classes in order
to attend our flexibility program. Simply enjoy our flexibility class and get your splits on!
Flying Pole
Flying Pole is a specialty class rarely found in studios across the United States. No other pole studio in San Diego offers flying pole like we do.
Flying pole is a silicone pole that orbits. It is attached to the ceiling point only. This class requires prerequisites that can be obtained in regular pole tricks classes (E.g. pole climb). This is where pole meets aerial. If you are an aerialist, the flying pole is great cross-training.
For traditional pole dancers, flying pole is a new and exciting challenge since it requires orbiting skills and control. The flying pole allows you to defy gravity and push your body in an entirely new way. Call on your muscles and get ready to discover a different kind of spinning. If you like to fly, then this is your new best friend!
Read class prerequisites when signing up.
Lyra (Aerial Hoop)
Lyra is an aerial apparatus in the shape of a big hoop. It is most often seen in Cirque du Soleil-type shows. It’s a totally different type of workout than Pole, but requires and develops the same amount of upper body and core strength and flexibility. It does not require pre-training and is just as accessible for adults as all of our pole classes.
Aerial Chains
This is another unique class that is only offered in San Diego at AK Pole.
This extremely rare apparatus will have you hanging and flying like never before, creating hauntingly beautiful shapes you didn’t know were possible. For those who are bold, daring, or like to live on the edge, this is an incredibly niche aerial skill to add to your repertoire.
If you are familiar with hammock, this will be an easy transition. Many skills from Pole, Lyra, and other aerial apparatuses translate well to Chains. Learn how to fly on double or single chains.
FrameUp (Heels Floorwork)
This is a non-pole or apparatus class. Dance is performed with or without heels on the floor. Floorwork is a good start if pole classes seem intimidating. Frameup is great dance training for established pole dancers.
See an example of FrameUp (Heels Floorwork)
AK Pole Studio specializes in a sensual style of floorwork that is called Stripplastica (aka Strip, FrameUp Strip), a feminine dance style that emerged in the early 90’s in Russia. It's taken over Europe, and
is making its way through the US. Stripplastica gives women the opportunity to connect with their body, learn to dance, develop grace, fluidity and sensuality... a truly feminine type of movement that is accessible for any age and shape.
Class does not require a dance background, and may be attended without heels.