New York Pole Dancing

We had the time of our life here yesterday at the bachelorette party I booked for my sister. I decided on the 90 minute option so we would have plenty of time for dancing, plus taking photos, and then changing for dinner, etc. It was the perfect length of time. We were able to start off with a really thorough warm up– lots of good stretching to get the muscles ready and prevent injury.
Our instructor was Victoria. She was very talented, plus patient with us, funny, and 100% real. She was also able to coach to our individual skill levels, as we ran the gamut from women who have been dancing since childhood, to a heavy set lesbian with less than full range of motion thanks to some old injuries (that would be me). But most important of all, she put everyone at ease. What could have been an intimidating experience wound up an absolute blast.
We learned a choreographed combination that included a spin and a climb. If you had told any of us that we’d be executing these moves after only an hour, we never would have believed it! I’m seriously considering going back for a regular class.

I ve been coming for over a year and loving it every time. I’ve improved so much. Best pole dancing studio in New York. Def recommended

I have been taking classes at New York pole dancing for a while. I’m uncoordinated, inflexible, and generally the last person anyone thinks should be whirling sexily around a pole. But the instructors are incredibly patient with me and I leave every class not only feeling like I’ve had an amazing workout (which I have) but also feeling proud and confident in my own skin. Classes really focus on teaching you good form and the basics before having you do crazy tricks. If you want a killer work out, a body positive atmosphere, and to really learn the moves this is the studio for you.

I LOVE this place. The classes are fun, challenging, and helped me lose weight and gain muscle like no other exercise I’ve ever tried. The instructors are skilled and care about you and your experience. And the students who attend form the most amazing, supportive community. Coming here is like coming home.

If I can give them ZERO stars, I WOULD. This place has no consideration for accommodation. I bought a living social deal to check this place out. It was purchase to try 2 classes. Their website was having trouble booking classes. I wanted to try a beginner pole dancing class and it wouldn’t let me register. I wanted to check if it was my account or not, so I tried signing up to another class to see if I can. I was able to sign up to other classes except the beginner pole. NO WHERE did it make it clear that you need at least 24 hours for a cancellation or if not, you lose the class.
I lost my classes that way ON THEIR OWN FAULT.
NEVER AGAIN. I didn’t even physically get to go there and I don’t ever want to.

I really like this pole studio. It’s pretty small, but just enough space without feeling too cramped. You will definitely learn a lot here, the instructors are awesome!
The stretch classes with Ashley and Wendy are great, too. It hurts so good…

It was me and my friend there for the first time taking a pole dancing class (intro to pole), I came from Brooklyn so excited and so so nervous. The young lady at the receptionist desk made me feel so comfortable so soon as I walked in, the instructor Kathleen was very open to answer all questions and although it was 5 of us there she made sure to show us all individual attention that made you feel like you were getting a private lesson. Although I only knew my friend, we all encouraged each other and I really couldn’t have asked for more.
WE ARE HOOKED!!!
It was so much fun!!!

bad customer service. couldnt help me sign up.
kinda rude

Cons: 1) smelly mats, even I saw how they clean them but it still have a horrible smell. Also in a reception area is smelly… Maybe because of the lockers… it’s disgusting.
Maria Del Mar Lopez — nice girl, for a one session (Intro to Pole Dancing) teached a lot, I was impressed by myself :)
Danielle Quinn — not bad a teacher, but for a beginners (Beginner Climb&Spin) she teached too much and hard tricks. She has a very good stretching skills thou.

I just had the best stretching class of my life: my teacher is Latina, and there was a Latina student behind me who probably doesn’t speak much English. So the teacher would give instructions to us, then repeat everything in Spanish. I got to revisit all the Spanish words for body parts I learned a few month ago and at the same time had an awesome stretch. Two classes for one price, I love it! Will definitely come again: P

I came here for a bachelorette party last weekend, and really enjoyed my experience! We did the intro to pole class. NYPD is located inside of a business building and this completely through me off! I was standing in the lobby in my short shorts and full face of make-​up while people in suits and knee length skirts were walking in and out. Once I got inside the studio, I felt much more comfortable. The women who were gathered around the front desk, and the one who checked me in, were all very nice and welcoming! At first I was very nervous, but the ladies made me feel right at home. In addition to their kindness, I also feel that class was not too intimidating because our party was the entire class. After we were finished, the next group of students walked in for class, and were decked out in their bras and heels and all seemed to know each other, I think I would feel more uncomfortable in a regular class of strangers for sure.
We started with a warm up and immediately began working on a routine. Our instructor was so much fun, edgy, and I cannot be happier with all of the moves we learned. I’m not very athletic, so the fact that she taught me to swing around the pole and climb the pole is impressive. I’ve taken classes like silks, aerial yoga, and I usually never get moves/​tricks on the first class! I seriously never thought I could do these things, and she made it so easy. I was definitely slower at picking up some moves than the other girls, at times I felt the instructor was a bit impatient and wanted me to get it quicker, but for the most part she was great. I DID have to remove my heels once we started swinging and climbing, felt way too unsteady in my stilettos, and this was fine with the instructor. Overall, we had an amazing experience and this seems like a really fun work-​out if I were to continue. I wish I hadn’t worn make up or done my hair because you definitely sweat in this class! It’s truly a work out, the instructors are all ripped and toned!
After a few drinks with dinner later on that night, I found a construction pole outside on the street and began doing the routine I was taught. Did I look like a pro? No… no absolutely not. I looked like a drunk toddler swinging around a construction pole. Just goes to show, highly addicting, fun, experience!

I love this studio. Each instructor has her own style, and brings her own flavor to the class. In the beginning of the class, there is a 25 minute stretch to warm up. Then, a routine is taught that incorporates a climb, a spin, and some sexy moves in between. My only wish is for classes to be a little bit longer!

Not very pleased with New York Pole. Went to class early Sunday morning using ClassPass. Instructor (Micaela) was 5 minutes late and told me, after I had set up to stretch, that I needed to pass tests in order to take «Beginner Climb/​Invert.» She then told me I could wait outside for the next conditioning class (which started an hour later) but then came out 15 minutes after to tell me that I couldn’t because her class was full. If I wanted to waitlist, I’d be put on the bottom of the wait list (#4). Really?!! Booted out of a class, then told to take the next class, then told I couldn’t take that class because it was full and I’d be put at the bottom of the waitlist?! Ridiculous and rude, to say the least — though the instructor did try to act apologetic. Mind you, I came all the way from Queens just to take this class. Will not be coming back and would not recommend!
P. S. I took a class with New York Pole the previous day and they teach climbing with a hooked/​flexed back foot. I probably would have failed their «test» since I’ve always been taught NEVER to use your feet while climbing. Pointed toes, always.
A few other tidbits: mostly 50 mm poles (1 – 2 45 mm poles), one studio with two separate pole rooms, 8^th floor, only 1 – 2 spray bottles and one towel to wipe poles down, lockers for rent (I think it was $ 36/​month with a minimum of 3 months commitment)

I’ve only attended climb and spin classes but I’m impressed by how much I’ve learned with each session. The pole instructor, Tracey of whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with, is all sorts of fabulous. She is very engaging and know how to encourage each student, instructing them to work harder, stretch longer, while all the while making as laugh as we work through the somewhat grueling moves. You want me to twist my body, in what way? Sure, I’ll try it.
There was a new routine each class which made this 1 hr session fly by. What I particularly enjoyed was the stretching involved in the very beginning to make sure your body is thoroughly warmed up (this particular stretch/​warm up incorporated some yoga techniques).
This studio encourages you to use pole shoes which is different from what I’m used to, although wearing it does add to the sexiness factor. I’ve danced in shoes before but would not do so in class because frankly the only time I want to be tripping is over a new pair of shoes or handbag lol.
If you’re new, I would definitely recommend purchasing dry hands as the pole gets slippery at certain points, no pun intended. For this class I was using a static pole, it’s good to know they have spinning poles which I’ve yet to test out but plan on doing so in the near future. They also have a handstand class which is on my to do list. They have deals (discounted classes) during the week which you should take advantage of if you have the opportunity to attend, just be mindful whether the class is for beginners, intermediate, or advanced.
Considering all the fun I’ve had the last few weeks, how could I stay away. Thanks NY Pole Dancing for helping me bring sexy back (kidding! It never left).

NYPD is my personal NYC studio of choice, and I’ve tried them all.
Let me start by breaking down a few things you’ve read in other reviews.
1. Cliqueyness. When I first started coming, I, too, was intimidated by the «regulars.» Everyone in my classes is nice, though, so maybe you should try smiling at them.
2. «Trashiness.» Are you aware that this is a pole dancing studio? Some of the bills you’re using to pay for your class were probably in a stripper’s ass crack at some point. Let’s not be hypocritical.
3. Cleanliness. If you’re weird about sharing equipment with people may I again remind you of the origins of the pole. Pole dancing isn’t for you if you’re afraid of other people’s crotch sweat. As for the mats, bring your own.
4. Heels. At the risk of repeating myself here, it’s pole dancing??? Are you confused?
That said, they literally don’t care if you wear heels or not. I promise.
5. The receptionist. Look, she’s not four star hotel hospitable. I’ve had my own run-​in with her. But now that we’ve sorted things out, I treat her with respect and courtesy and she returns the favor. Ask her if she’s having a nice day. She’s just human.
6. Price. They offer off-​hours classes for $ 12. But even so, have you price checked the other studios in NYC? It’s all that expensive. NYC is expensive. And as for getting your money’s worth, if you’re not tired after class then let me tell you a thing: you’re not working hard enough. Sorry, gurl.
NOW. All that said, I prefer NYPD because I am not trying to whitewash the STRIPPER out of POLE DANCING. Wendy has cheekily dubbed it «classical pole.» I want to wear my stilettos, twerk my booty, and whip my hair. NYPD is a little rough around the edges, but they give you all this and a workout. I’m just not interested in the studios that offer «contemporary» pole, it’s not for me. (If you’re more interested in doing lyrical dance with a pole, try somewhere else.)

I took COUNTLESS classes here and so did my friends. The instructors are fantastic– professional, friendly, and helpful. The owner however does not know how to treat customers. I had purchased (one of many) packages of 10 classes. I had used about 6 of the 10 classes when I ended up hospitalized bc I had cancer. When I was finally feeling well enough to resume classes the owner told me that my package had expired. I explained my situation to her and she wanted no part of it. I haven’t been back.

In one word, this studio is… Trashy. Now when it comes to pole dancing, this can be both good and bad. Let me explain why.
The Good
The atmosphere in this studio is very home-​girl, no frills, Jenny from around the block, non-​prissy-​esque. What I mean is, on occasion, there will be girls poling in just their underwear. Backs all sweaty, messy ponytails, bruised thighs and arms, not giving a f***. This is great because it creates a judgement-​free zone for you to practice. The teachers and advanced polers also tend to come from a stripping background, so they have no fear towards being sensual or sexual. It’s very liberating to let go of those inhibitions. Good girls can be nasty too :) I mostly took NYPD’s stretching and flexibility classes, which were not bad. Their beginner pole classes are also pretty good (if you don’t mind sharing a pole with another girl). The view from the studio is Gorgeous! They have these big, huge windows that take up the entire wall.
The Bad
Unfortunately at NYPD there is a Clique-​ish mentality that forms amongst the advanced students. Some of them are just very pretentious. What’s even worse is that I encountered a situation where one of these cliques verbally ganged up on me because of a separate and private exchange of words I had with one of their friends. When brought to the management’s attention, the response was, all studios have cliques. Which, speaking of management, the receptionist is useless. As the «face» of the organization, she doesn’t do a good job welcoming or retaining new students. ⁹⁄₁₀ you will hear the management, instructors, and advanced students at the front desk gossiping about whose boyfriend cheated on whom.
The Ugly
We arrive at the ugly side of trashy. This studio is quite literally, trashy. It is filthy. I’m not sure if the floors have ever been swept, or washed. There is dust everywhere. The poles are disgusting. There are bottles of antiseptic and old towels laying around that you can use to clean your pole. But other than that, I don’t think the poles are cleaned. The mirrors are not actually mirrors, but are reflective paper that has begun to bubble and peel off the wall. There are no hooks in the changing room (which is just an area behind a curtain) so you have to put your clothes on the floor as you change.
Good luck with your experience!

they have discount for first timers
GO TO 8AM CLASSES WHERE ONLY 3 PPL SIGN UP. for individual attention AND actually having a pole to yourself. day package is cheaper anyways.
if you sweat a lot in your hands (as i do) they sell dry-​hands.

Seriously — listen to Next’s Too Close about half dozen times before coming here. Bring that sass, ladies!
My background is more in the pole fitness arena — dancing on stilettos will almost guarantee a face plant, and 45 mm poles? Holy moly… how was I going to climb this skinny thing? I need my thick grippy poles
(no vulgar joke intended here… well, maybe!)
But in the interest of expanding my pole experience, I came to NYPD mid winter to try out a few classes.
I loved that each class encompass a spin, climb and choreography. The choreography made me want to pander for dollar bills, but it’s so fun to play nightclub dancer once in awhile…
Two negatives;
— I didn’t realize it is a heels studio, till I got there. I did the whole routine barefoot, of which the instructor asked «Doesn’t your toes hurt?»
(why yes of course, but that’s why my pedicurist/​callous removing lady gets a great tip!)
— I am a very sweaty person and have never lived anywhere ‘NY cold’… I honestly could do with less heating and more ventilation in the studio. Other ladies in the class didn’t seem to be struggling with sweat… so I’ll put it down to just me :)
So I had fun. It’s very different from what I know… would consider coming back now that I am better on heels!

Today marks my one year anniversary with NYPD! I haven’t been here the full year. I actually was here for a full month in the summer last year and then because of school I wasn’t able to commit to the schedule. But I absolutely love it here. I’ve tried some other pole dance places before (for a short amount of time) but I love how this one works the most.
The Location:
The studios are nice and beautiful — in gorgeous pink and blue with their classic logo. There are a nice amount of poles in both studios. The pink has one extra than the blue I believe. It is also located in a pretty convenient location at the Theater District (not too far uptown or downtown)
The Classes:
Absolutely fantastic! At first it may be a bit hard to catch up since I don’t think they have that many Intro class slots anymore so most people take Beginner, but Beginner classes mixes a lot of Intermediate and Advance levels so sometimes it gets a bit mixed up. But even so, they give very personal attention to the Beginners and tailors everything to everyone’s level.
The Instructors:
I love em. Each have their own teaching style, but all of them are super nice, friendly, and helpful. They really drill you on technique and break down the moves for you step by step and try to help you get through it time by time. They are very patient and give you the right amount of push and pull.
The Value:
It is the BEST. You get the fun in poling, the exercise/​workout, and dancing! They offer a wide variety of classes to help you get into shape and to help you get better at poling. Poling requires a lot of body strength and they help you with getting there. For example, they have Booty Camp classes that trains your core strength and that helps with Climb & Spin. They have Handstand classes that will help you with core as well as later on with your Inverts. They also have Stretch classes to help you with flexibility.