Pole dancing gives you the chance to move in a way that feels good without worrying what anyone else thinks. For a lot of women, that is something new or rare. We’re so used to being told how to act or dress or move, but in a pole class, you get to decide for yourself.

In class, you learn to move with intention and confidence. Sometimes it’s graceful, sometimes it’s powerful, sometimes it’s awkward, and sometimes it’s just plain fun. And the best part? You’re not doing it for anyone else. It’s just for you. Being in a room full of women all doing the same thing makes it feel safe and empowering. Even if you don’t get something on the first try, other women are there to encourage you to try again. Your instructor may offer individual tricks or things to try differently to help you get that move.

These classes can help you feel better in your body, no matter what shape or size it is, or where you are at on your fitness journey. You get to explore your sensuality in a space where there is no judgment. You’re not trying to be sexy for someone else—you’re just enjoying the way your body moves.

Over time, you may start to shed some of the shame or awkwardness that might’ve built up over the years. You laugh, you fall, you get back up—and you start to feel proud of how you move and what your body is capable of. That kind of freedom is rare, and when you find it with a group of women who are all cheering you on, it can feel absolutely amazing.