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"This exercise helps to calm my brain in a different way...I'm stronger and more limber with every class. The relaxed, encouraging atmosphere gives me the freedom to connect with my inner woman. I can't encourage enough women to attend these classes--They are wonderful!"

Think this woman raving about Yoga or Pilates? Nope, she's referring to Pole Dancing.

Now that I've got you blushing, cast aside all preconceived notions of dimly lit strip bars filled with ladies in easily removable Lycra dresses, gyrating, booty popping and hair- flipping to Motley Crue. While it may have started in gentlemen's clubs, Pole Dancing has quickly become a popular fitness trend and fun way for women to get in touch with their sensual side. So if you've decided to take the plunge, read on about what to expect from a beginner's Pole Dancing class.

What Really Happens in a Pole Dancing Class?

There's nothing to be afraid of. Classes are slanted more toward a G than an X rating. The dance itself involves performing aerobic moves on a vertical pole including spins and inversions. Arm, leg and ab muscles are used deeply for this, so expect a very thorough workout from your first class. You'll be taught several moves which will build into a short routine. Traditional classes include warm up, stretching, "pole-time," and cool down. If practiced consistently over a few months, the benefits you'll reap include increased strength, muscle tone, suppleness, lost inches, and a healthy dose of sexual self-confidence.

Safety First

Chose your class carefully. The good ones offer a safe, female-only environment where instruction takes place out of public view. You aren't going to be doing anything risqué, but there's a small minority who get a cheap thrill from peering into such classes. Yeah, they're out there. And no, you most definitely will NOT be required to take your clothes off. Make sure a professional teacher rather than a professional dancer teaches your class. In extreme cases, a Pole Dancing accident can lead to major injuries, such as neck sprains and breaks. It's essential to be in company of someone with anatomy and physiology training to ensure your safety with every twist, twirl, and inversion.

What Should I Wear?

Thankfully, you won't be asked to prance around in a sequined thong. Normal workout wear is fine, a tank top and shorts is recommended. Note you will be gripping the pole with your inner thighs, so it's best to wear what's comfortable while allowing your skin to be in direct contact with the pole to prevent slippage. If you're a more advanced student learning inversions, you'll want to expose more skin to get more traction on the pole. Don't forget to bring extra layers to the studio too. While waiting for your shot on the pole it can get chilly, and you'll want to keep those sinewy muscles warm and limber.

Do I Bring My Manolos?

For beginners, you'll find most students learn in bare feet or sneakers. Advanced classes allow heels, but the sturdy-heeled, t-strap variety. Leave the killer patent leather platforms at home.

Is Dewy Skin a "Do?"

One might assume slathering on the Kiehl's Crème de Corps would add a little shine to their routine. Not so fast. Leave off lotions, oils, or moisturizers of any kind from both your hands and body. You'll need as much friction as possible to stay on the pole. That said, it's also a good idea to wipe the pole down before getting your Demi Moore on.

Warm Up!

Because Pole Dancing is an athletic form of dance, you'll want to be sure your body is warmed up before starting. Your abs, quads and arms deserve special attention. There's nothing hot about a stiff pole dancer (no pun intended).

It's Pole Dancing. Not Pole Pouncing.

Don't jump, pounce, leap, or throw your body at or around the pole. You build momentum for spins by walking around the pole and swinging your outside leg towards it. You pull yourself up onto the pole with your arms and abs. At no point should you be jumping onto it. Banging yourself up isn't sexy, neither are bruises and Band Aids.

Whether you practice in sweats and sneakers at your nearest gym or in dedicated Pole Dancing studio, you'll find this exercise to be a fantastic work-out and a fun means of expressing yourself...And if you chose to share your new moves with your man this Valentine's Day, compete with Lucite platforms and a stretchy, satin, snake dress--more power to you.

Christina Simone Angelacos is a freelance editor / social media consultant living in New York City. She has over 10 years experience in marketing and editorial both interactive and otherwise. She writes about beauty, fashion and relationships. She also helps companies both large and small resonate with their audiences online. When she's not editing, tweeting, blogging, or waxing the poetic you can most likely find her engaged in deep conversation with good company in some candle-lit West Village haunt. Besides her passion for melancholy Brit pop, subtitled film, and handwritten love letters, she has a simple mission: Facilitate relationships and produce great work. The end. Interested in learning more? Here is her website: http://thisverymoment.com/

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