Pole Exercises

Pole dancing is tons of fun...we all know that! But did you know that you can use your dance pole as a vertical home gym to help build the sport-specific strength you'll need to safely do all those spins lifts and inversions?

Pole dancers demonstrating a split grip hold

It's true! In addition to giving you the strength you need to do the tricks you want, building up your pole dancing muscles will also help reduce your chances of injury. Having strong muscles mean you're going to be more in control on your pole. And being in control means you'll be much less likely to resort to momentum, which can be a dangerous thing if you rely on it instead of on your muscle strength. 

So let's get you started with a few sample pole exercises so you can get a feel for just how useful that vertical piece of steel can be.

Just tap or click on any of the photos shown below to see full instructions, more demo photos and safety tips.

(The exercises shown below are generally safe for most people in reasonable physical condition. However, for those who haven't packed their common sense on their pole journey, please read this disclaimer.)

Let's Get Pole Strong!

1 - Sitting Pole-Up Exercise

This exercise is a great way to start safely building the strength needed for lifts, holds and spins. While upper body strength is important for these types of moves, core control is equally critical. The sitting pole-up exercise - done correctly - helps you build both.

Once you can do a few sets of these, you can graduate to the kneeling and standing versions for more challenge.

See full instructions for the Sitting Pole-Up exercise here

2 - Pole Knee Lift Exercise

Like the sitting pole-up, this pole exercise builds both upper body and core strength, something you'll need a lot of as you start to learn some of the more difficult tricks and lifts.

You'll also be able to work on your split grip with this exercise. The split grip is commonly used for many intermediate and advanced moves, so it's a good idea to start working it into your practice sessions fairly early on. That way, you'll be strong enough to start learning all the moves that use this grip once you're ready for them.

See full instructions for the Pole Knee Lift exercise here

3 - Pole Lunge Exercise

This is an excellent exercise for toning your butt. As a matter of fact, if you don't feel this one the next day, something is definitely wrong!

While many people think of upper body strength when it comes to pole dancing, let's not forget about all those inverted leg grips, lay backs, and other advanced moves that require lower body strength. And then there's the tight buns factor. If you want some of that, this is the exercise for you!

See full instructions for the Pole Lunge exercise here

Disclaimer

As with any fitness program, please be reasonable and know your limits. Start slowly and build gradually to avoid injury. And if you have any questions or concerns about whether these exercises are right for you, please check with your doctor, health care practitioner, personal trainer, or other professional who is familiar with your physical condition, abilities and any limitations or contraindications.

copyscape-banner-white-200x25.png

Follow Your Pole Pal...

You might like these pages too...

What's New?

  1. London Pole Studios & More | Pole Dancing in England

    Jun 14, 25 05:09 PM

    Discover top pole studios in London as well as pole dancing classes throughout England. Find local studios near you to start your pole dancing adventure today.

    Read More

  2. What's the Best Pole For Plus Size Pole Dancers?

    Jun 13, 25 04:17 PM

    plus-size-pole-dancers-250x250
    The best pole for plus size pole dancers is the one that meets your needs and preferences. Discover your options and find YOUR best plus size dance pole.

    Read More

  3. Find Pole Dance Studios in Australia | Pole Fitness Directory

    Jun 12, 25 08:47 PM

    Find top-rated pole dancing studios and instructors across Australia. Browse nearly 200 listings organized by state and city. Start your pole journey today!

    Read More

  4. Pole Dance Party Questions To Ask Before You Book

    Jun 11, 25 04:55 AM

    plus-size-pole-fitness-FAQ.png
    Before you book your pole dance party, be sure to ask these important questions to avoid unexpected surprises. Get your free downloadable checklist too!

    Read More

  5. Pole Fitness in Arkansas | Pole Dance Studio Directory

    Jun 09, 25 05:37 PM

    Browse Arkansas pole dance and fitness studios to find classes and instructors across the state. Studio owners, get your free listing in the directory!

    Read More

Your Pole Pal loves to have fun, but she also has to earn a living, right? That's why you'll see ads on this site. She may also earn commissions on some of the products you'll see here, but there's never any cost to you since the advertisers pay for these.

The income generated through these means helps ensure Your Pole Pal can devote the time to providing you with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll find on this website.

Want to learn more? Your Pole Pal invites to you read her full advertising disclosure. You know...in case you haven't read enough legalese lately.