How to improve your group fitness classes

Pole dancing is most often taught in a group fitness class setting. These classes might be semester based or drop in, but generally are led by a single instructor with 2+ students in a physical or virtual location.

Here are three ways to improve your group fitness classes whether they are pole or another type of class taught at a pole studio environment.

Set the expectations for the class

This starts before class by having a solid class description on your website or online booking system. Make sure people understand what they need to wear to be successful. If it’s a pole class, do they need stiletto heels? Or pole shorts? If it’s a flexibility class, do they need blocks or other props? Whatever it is, make sure it’s clear! Remind people as they come into class in case,they forgot something in their car or need to purchase clothing, grip, or other accessories before class starts.

When class is about to start, introduce yourself and let people know what to expect. Maybe you start with a warmup and then get into the class content and end with a free dance or a peak pose. Maybe you have a theme for the class and if you do, share it!

Read more about setting expectations.

Be prepared

Make sure you have everything you need to be a successful teacher. Maybe you need information from the studio or other location to teach. This might include (but isn’t limited to): the wifi information, the instructor zoom login, how to check students in, how to connect to the stereo, where to park or any other location-specific instructions.

Be prepared with all your appropriate clothing, props, grip aids, and anything else you need to demonstrate the movements you’re about to teach. Being prepared tells your students that you know what you’re doing, whether it’s your first day or your 1,000^th!

Get to know your students

Show that you care about your students by asking their names and how they are doing. It might be appropriate to ask them their level of pole experience or where they’ve poled in the past to give you an idea of their level. It may also be appropriate to ask what they are looking to get out of class like a fun workout, a new trick, or just interacting with like-minded people. Let them know how to contact you with feedback about class or to report injuries that might impact their ability to do certain movements before class starts.

Teaching in a group fitness format can be super fun but also challenging! Make sure you’re prepared to teach with these three tips.

What else would you add?