FAQ's & Policies
What should I expect in my first pole class?
Don't worry, we remember feeling anxious before our first class. First and foremost, when you step through our doors, you can expect to feel welcome!
You can find all the intel on what to expect, bring and wear to your first pole class on our First-Timers page.
Do I need a dance or gymnastics background?
Pole has no prerequisites to start! You don't need any experience of any description in pole or any other discipline. There is no minimum strength, flexibility or fitness level you need to hit to be able to join us and start learning something new.
Pole is inclusive so it doesn't matter what shape, size or age you are, we will build all the strength, flexibility and coordination you need along the way. We will always be able to offer modifications and alternatives in class to suit your level. You are welcome exactly as you come.
Do I need to prepare for class?
No, you don't need to prepare anything before class, but please do not moisturise before class as you'll be too slippery to grip!
Does Pole hurt?
Pole is a workout! You'll use muscles you didn't even know you had! As with any exercise, you may experience some aches and pains after class.
When you start using a new grip point, it can be a little uncomfortable. Your body won't be used to it so you may get a little bruising at first. Don't worry, your body habituates as you use the contact point more so it becomes a lot more comfortable.
What should I wear to my pole class?
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and that you can move freely in. We recommend tight-fitting shorts, a sports bra and an optional vest or t-shirt over the top.
We will need access to arms and legs for grip. The contact between your skin and the metal pole allows you to stick to the pole and hold all the beautiful shapes and spins that pole has to offer.
If you are feeling a little self-conscious, you are more than welcome to wear leggings or joggers over the top of your shorts until we need your leg grip. You will see very quickly that everyone is in the same boat. People are much more preoccupied with what they are learning than what you look like in shorts!
What should I bring to class?
We recommend bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated during class. Some people like to bring a small towel to dry themselves as pole is tiring work - we will provide cloths to wipe down the poles. You are also welcome to use grip aids (Except ITAC) - if you're not sure, you can ask your instructor about grip aids in class and they will be happy to help.
If you've signed up for a Pole Choreo class we'd advise socks and kneepads.
Most importantly, bring yourself. Whether it's been a good day, a bad day, or anything in between...we'll help you carve out some time for you in your week.
Can I use grip aids?
Yes, absolutely! You can use any grip aids except ITAC. We just ask that you wipe the pole down after use.
Are there age restrictions on classes?
Yes, to book our classes you must be over 16.
What if I am late for class?
Please make sure you arrive early to class. If you are more than 5 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class and you will lose your class credit for that session. We absolutely hate to turn people away, but for health and safety & insurance reasons, we must be strict on this policy. Our students' safety is our absolute priority.
Every class starts with a warm-up that has been specially designed to mobilise your joints and prepare your body for exercise. If a thorough warm-up is not completed, you are at a high risk of injury and your instructor will not be insured to teach you.
How many people will be in class?
We have 6 poles, so a class capacity of up to 12 people. 2 per pole gives everyone plenty of time on the pole, and plenty of recovery time in-between.
You can also book 1-2-1 or 2-2-1 sessions if you are looking for a little more privacy. Contact us directly for more information and to book.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, absolutely! Private lessons are £50 per hour, and semi-private lessons (2 students) are £90 per hour. Please contact us directly to book.
Where are classes held?
Unit 1, The Old Water Yard,
Curtis Road
Dorking
RH4 1DY
You can access the studio from the front door joining the public footpath on Curtis Road. The door will be left on the latch before your class. There is a waiting area as soon as you enter. Please wait for the previous class to finish, for students to leave, and for your instructor to invite you into the studio before entering.
You can find more information about the studio's accessibility and facilities here.
How much does it cost?
We offer both drop-in sessions and class packs. You can find an overview of our pricing here.
If it's your first time, you can use the code NEWBIE123 for 50% off a taster class (this can only be applied to single sessions, not class packs)
How can I book?
You'll need to register an account with TeamUp before booking. You'll be prompted to read through and sign our informed consent form, as well as our health questionnaire.
Once set up, you will be able to purchase single classes or a class pack within the "Memberships" tab at the top of the page. Once you have some credits in your account, you're ready to book, so head over to the "Schedule" tab and select the class that you would like to book. Regular class credits cannot be redeemed against special events like workshops & intensive days.
If you would like to book a private session, please get in touch with us directly to arrange.
Can I drop in without booking?
No, all bookings must be made in advance through our booking system. There are a limited number of poles so we need to make sure there is room for everyone. We don't use the space full-time, so we may not be there if you try to pop in. The best way to ask any questions is to email us at info@skyboundaerialstudios.co.uk.
Can I cancel my class?
We get it, life isn't always predictable and sometimes plans change. If something comes up, you can cancel your class within your Team Up account at any time. Head to the "My Account" tab at the top and then select the "Registrations" option to see your upcoming bookings and cancel (Or you can click here).
Please keep in mind that we have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel before the 24-hour window your class credit will be automatically refunded into your account for you to use again. If you cancel within 24 hours of the class, you will lose your credit for that session. Class credits cannot be exchanged, postponed, refunded or carried over if cancelled within the 24-hour window. This applies to all of our classes.
Class credits cannot be redeemed against special events, like workshops and intensive days. These kinds of events have their own special credits and cancellation terms.
Do class credits expire?
Yes, they do. For class packs, you have 6 weeks (42 days) from the date of purchase to use your class credits. For our PAYG single session credits, you have 2 weeks (14 days) from the date of purchase to use.
Unused credits cannot be extended, transferred or refunded past their expiry date so please use all your class credits within the allocated time frame.
You can find more details about our class packs and pricing on our "Prices" page, or within our booking system here.
Can I join a class if I am pregnant?
If you have already been practising pole for at least 3 months and want to keep training, you can continue with your classes. Please notify your instructor as soon as you become aware of your pregnancy so that they can adapt class plans to ensure both mother and baby's safety. Your discretion will be fully respected and anything you share with us or your Instructor will be strictly confidential, and protected under data protection law.
For insurance purposes, we will need you to complete an informed consent form as soon as you become aware of your pregnancy, and a pregnancy-specific PAR-MED-X health questionnaire at 12 weeks. You can continue classes up until 32-weeks, or for as long as you feel comfortable to. You can withdraw your consent at any time. As with all our students, participation is voluntary and you don't have to do anything that you don't want to during class.
If you have been practising pole for under 3 months and you're pregnant, we can't offer you classes with us until you have fully recovered from your birth. Pole is very physically demanding and you can easily bump into the pole when trying the spins and shapes pole has to offer. The risks are much higher for beginners, especially in the first trimester.