How to teach Pole Dance with Confidence in 2025. A quick step by step guide.

Hi, my names Bryony, I’ve been teaching Pole Dance, Acrobatics, Flexibility and more since 2012 when i moved to London, since then I’ve owned a Studio, travelled the World teaching workshops and classes and now have my own Retreast Business! This year i launched my Teacher Training Courses.

I always teach with empathy and do my best to create a safe space, I believe you can build a students confidence with a thoughtful approach and inclusive environment. 

I totally understand becoming a new Pole teacher comes with many fears, doubts and our worst human experience - imposter syndrome!

I’m so excited to support you in leading classes confidently, connecting with students safely and with clear boundaries, and importantly prioritising your own mental well-being on this Journey.

In this step by step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to feel prepared, empowered and confident as a pole instructor in 2025!

Remember: There’s no one “right way” to become a Pole Instructor. Everyone’s journey is valid, and you belong here.

Step 1 : Check the basic requirements

Before stepping into your role as a Pole Instructor, it’s helpful to check a few things that can set you up for success: 

• Its okay to start wherever you are but be sure to check if the Studio, Space, Place you are Teaching requires Certifications. 

• Experience Level. Feeling confident in your movement and teaching basics is a great foundation, many course require 1 year of doing Pole.

• Look into essentials like insurance, CPR/First Aid and Studio Liability.These help you create a safer space for everyone.

• Consider training with reputable certification programs that align with your values to boost your confidence and skills!

Step 2 : Growing your skills!

Confidence comes from practice, not perfection and the best instructors are always learning! Here are some kind ways to keep building your movement toolbox:

• Get really comfy with the basics. Your students will naturally mirror your form, help everyone feel safer with you.

• Pole is always evolving! Try out new moves, styles and trends that feel good in your body. 

• Learn from others. Take workshops and classes. There's always something to gain from sharing space with other movers.

Step 3 : Students well-being 

When planning or teaching a class, it’s easy to focus on the skills and structure, but it’s just as important to check in with how your students are doing, not just what they’re doing.

Students bring their energy, emotions and life with them. Being aware of this is a sign of a thoughtful and confident instructor.

Here are a few things to gently keep in mind:

• Tired or low-energy students might be moving slower than usual. Offer options and encourage listening to their bodies.

• Stress and mental health can affect focus, coordination and confidence. Your calm, supportive presence can help make class feel like a safe escape.

• Nutrition. Low blood sugar can make people dizzy, fatigued or foggy. If someone seems off, a quiet check-in can go a long way.

• Hydration matters. Gently remind students to bring water and take sips throughout class, especially in warm studios.

• Emotional processing on the pole is real. Movement can bring up feelings and sometimes students might tear up or shut down mid-class. Let them know that’s okay.

A simple “How’s everyone feeling today?” at the start of class opens the door for honest check-ins and helps you teach with empathy and flexibility.

Step 4 : Communication

Teaching isn’t just about what you do physically, it’s about how you guide others to try!

Clear, compassionate communication is key to helping your students feel safe and open.

• Cueing out loud. Verbal cues help students understand and visualise the movement.

• Even if you’re nervous, showing the move with intention helps your students feel grounded and ready.

• Offer feedback with kindness. Supportive corrections, positive reinforcement and consent-based touch can make a huge difference in your students’ experience.

  
  

Section 5 : Planning your classes

Having a solid class plan is like having a safety net, it helps you stay calm, stay organised and adapt.

• Structure. A typical class includes a warm-up, conditioning, inversions, climbing, sitting, spins and a cool-down.

• Adapt to your students. Whether your class is full of beginners or mixed levels, flexibility is key. Having variations or progressions ready can reduce stress.

• Use a notebook to plan and reflect on your sessions. The more you teach, the easier planning becomes. Start simple and build from there!

Step 6: Protect your energy!

As a pole instructor, we give a lot, time, energy, emotional presence and creativity.

It’s a beautiful act of service, but it can also be draining if you're not careful with your own wellbeing.

Creating healthy boundaries isn’t selfish, it’s what allows you to show up consistently, confidently and sustainably for your students and yourself.

Set clear boundaries

• It’s okay to care about your students without taking on their emotional weight.

• If someone comes to class in a tough headspace, be compassionate but don’t feel like you need to fix it.

• Offer support within your role as an instructor and gently redirect or suggest outside resources if needed.

Respect your own time & energy

• Know how many classes a week feel good for you (not just how many you can do).

• Leave time between classes to reset or rest, especially if you’re introverted or prone to burnout.

• Don’t be afraid to say no to extra work, last-minute covers or unpaid labour.

  
  

• Communication

• If you’re not comfortable with hands-on spotting or late-night DMs, it’s okay to say so.

• Set studio or student expectations early: your communication hours, your teaching style and how you offer support.

• Boundaries protect everyone, they create a clear and safe container for learning.

  
  

  Rest is Productive

• Taking breaks and protecting your downtime is essential for your muscles and energy to recharge.

• Honoring your limits, practicing self-care and speaking kindly to yourself out loud.

• Remember: your energy sets the tone. A rested, regulated instructor = a safer class for everyone.

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of you is one of the most powerful ways to take care of your students.

If you're ready to dive into TheBMovement Course deeper and learn to teach from a place of confidence and prioritise mental wellbeing for yourself and your students; I'd love to welcome you to my instructor course designed to support and empower you every step of the way!

Starting with : my Online 2 Day Flexibility Teacher Training Course 20th and 21st September.

Booking open now!

Speak to you soon, Love Bry xxx