This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Conn chapter.

For my 21st birthday I decided I wanted to embark on something outside my safety zone. No, this did not just include the normal 21st festivities that deal with drinking but taking an Intro to Pole course. Yes, pole dancing was what I was going to try. I arrived at The Girl Spot that Monday night with several thoughts swimming through my head. How on Earth was I going to pull this off? Was I wearing the right clothing? What if I fell off the pole? In that hour-long class I learned a few things, which I now will share with you.

1) You will need to warm up before beginning.

With any physical activity you’re going to want to stretch. Pole dancing is no exception. This includes breathing exercises, push-ups, and a lot of hip exercises.

2) “ Buttercup Push-ups” will become your new go to.

This type of push-up not only builds upper body strength are also a fun way to workout! Who doesn’t want to get toned while being taught a sexy move? Some refer to this pushup as the “heavy hair” or “pole dancer push up.” Warning, please practice on a clean surface; it involves keeping the side of your face against the floor while pushing your body up.

3) You will get bruises.

Days after taking the course I still had bruises in my inner thigh and inner arms. You’ll most likely bruise but with practice and time, they go away. Just make sure upon arriving to the class you don’t put on lotion. You’ll be sliding off that pole before you know what you hit you.

(Disclaimer: You won’t be able to do this after one class)

4) It’s not all about being sexy.

When you first start off you’re probably going to look like an awkward duckling as you try to swing and hold your body up. With practice and getting comfortable with the pole it gets easier and thus, more fun!

5) It builds up your confidence.

Sure, trying anything for the first time can be intimidating but pole dancing offers you the ability to feel confident and express yourself. As you continue taking courses your gracefulness and nimbleness grow.

6) If you aren’t brave enough to face it on your own, bring a friend.

When I went I made sure to bring a buddy. It actually worked out well. I had someone to laugh with when I awkwardly slipped off the pole and someone who went through the struggle with me when first attempting those push-ups.

7) It’s for any anyone, any body type, at any age.

The night I went, it was my friend and me along with four other women. Two were in their thirties and two in their fifties. You’re never too old to begin.

Honestly, if you ever had a shimmer of interest in it, try it. You won’t regret it. If you need any more inspiration, this should do it.

Cover Image Credit

What I Learned After Taking an Intro to Pole Dancing Class