For anyone thinking of taking a class - do it! I started here as a brand new pole dancer with 0 experience and with very little athletic background and dancing here has become my new obsession. The instructors are kind, fun and make you feel so comfortable. The people here are non-judgemental, uplifting and caring. I've always felt at least a little self conscious when exercising - at the gym, in the street, in group classes - but going here was the first time I was fully immersed in the dance and didn't feel the slightest bit concerned about how I looked, how my dancing was, or how I compared to the other students. Try it!! read more

The most fun I've had in a minute!! I took the Pole Foundations (intro) class and got in a nice little workout. Really just being comfortable around the pole, engaging ALL the muscles and having a good time is what it's all about. The time to look stupid and learn new skills is now! Pole + Dance Studios is definitely the perfect environment for letting lose and feeling empowered by what your body can do. Even if you don't have the upper or lower body strength to get all the way up yet, just trying it out is half the fun! Small class, only four of us plus the teacher (we had Krista Smithers as a sub and she was excellent). Everyone's required to wear a mask AND show proof of vaccination at the door. Hot tip: create an account and sign up online. Much faster, you can see how many spots are left in a class and I doubt anyone wants to handle cash right now. Only $40 for drop in classes. Newbie to a studio deal is $80 for 3 classes taken within a month. Highly loved this location and recommend this class! Taking a few more Intro classes and definitely looking into the Active Flexibility classes (all levels) next! read more

Such a beautiful and creative way to step out of my comfort zone. I took my first ever pole class here with Fifi and she was amazing! You get amazing people that walk in n out these doors and also amazing people who run the place. Fifi made me feel super comfortable and reminded me that I could do it. My experience here overall was so positive that I am convinced I need to take more classes here. Please be aware of parking! This place is located in downtown Berkeley and Berkeley parking is super strict. There is timed and metered parking throughout the area - and this area is located on a busy street. If you're looking for a reason to learn pole dancing, this is your sign to get off ya ass and onto a pole! It's so much fun and challenging. Worth it!! read more

I'm Amab and use he/they pronouns. My trans man friend and I weren't certain we would be welcome in a space that I assumed would be mostly a safe space for women. We'd both understand if that were the case! I was wrong. They are very inclusive and make it a safe space for everyone. Lots of genders, sexualities, skin colors, and body types here. Everyone seems to feel safe and sexy in the space! It's challenging but fun! read more

I've started pole dancing in 2017 and I've attended many different studios, but Berkeley Pole + Dance studio is definitely the best. The space is big and has great lighting. The community at the studio is great as well :) I usually attend Yoko's classes on Monday. She is really great at breaking down the moves and is super supportive of your progress. She is also always ready to spot you, which makes me feel really safe. It's nice to see familiar faces every week and getting to see each other's progress. They also have great specialty classes like Mae Mae's Thirsty Thursday class, which I would love to see more than just once a month. She is so sweet and supportive and brings sexiness to another level. Can't wait to attend more classes! read more

I attend classes at all of the Pole & Dance studios in the bay area, but Berkeley has a special vibe. Its a safe, open space with great lighting where you can really let it all go and have fun. I take Heels Choreography and Active Flexibility classes with Mae Mae and she is such a patient teacher. She takes the time to explain everything and make sure you're comfortable before moving on to the next thing (and if you cant do something, she will adapt for your ability). I have also made some great friends that I look forward to seeing weekly! read more

Went in for a private class on 2/25 and really didn't know what to expect. It was my first time and I was very reserved and nervous. I'm not a small woman so it was not an event I was looking forward too. That quickly changed when I met the instructor Ray. Ray was very welcoming and assuring. She was helpful when some of the moves were challenging and provided alternative ways of doing them so regardless of your level you could still have fun. She made you very comfortable and I ended up really enjoying myself. I still can't quit my day job and take this on full time but I'd definitely go back and learn some more tricks. The studio is very clean and cute inside which is always a plus. Lastly, it is a great work out ! read more

Cela is so amazing. I was gifted 3 classes for pole and dance and attended without expectation. The class was wonderfully paced and an incredible workout. Best of all though I felt so welcomed in the environment. I cannot say enough how comfortable Cela made me feel and how helpful she was. By the end I was excited for what's to come and truly can't wait to go back! read more

This is a cool space but I have to say that the instructors really make great. Specifically, Fifi and Sahra are absolute favorites. Fifi will push you in all the best ways. Sahra creates the safest space for free expression. They're both amazing and silly. read more

Done 5 classes so far and wow it has been such an amazing experience!! All the instructors have their own style of teaching, but each one of them have been so wonderful, helping through the process of gaining confidence in myself. Sahra was amazing with introducing me into pole helping me get comfortable with it, Fifi was so funny and engaging with the class teaching us how to climb, Celia was so lovely and encouraging helping me with my invert, and Autumn has brought the life back in me with her heels choreography making me feel so sexy! Come here for an amazing workout with these amazing ladies!! read more

Sarah is amazing. Take a class with her and come back home happier than ever. The welcoming was also very warm. Everything is clean and shiny and the studio is beautiful. read more

I had to leave a review for Ray. She is awesome!! I showed up a little late to class, I caught traffic from livermore. I jumped right in and with her help and joined in the struggle lol! I was a first timer but she made me feel completely comfortable. No one was left out. She goes around the room to gives u a little encouragement and to help u perfect your moves. I'm hoping to get better on my second visit. One day I'll get up that pole lol! read more

A great first experience! I was a little nervous but Marguerite made it fun and educational. Can't wait to go back again!

Updated Review: I've been taking classes at bp&d for about a year now and I absolutely love the instructors at this studio! I recently (today!) took Celia's "gooey transitions" class and LOVED it!! I would highly recommend this class to any beginners who want to make their tricks blend together seamlessly. I've also taken Celia's level 2, level 3, and invert conditioning classes which have all been wonderful. For heels choreography classes, Autumn is the absolute best instructor to teach you a slinky dance full of amazing leg waves and pirouettes. Autumn's classes are also such a great safe space to dance it out and get in tune with your body. read more

Since my first ever pole class with Maggie, I've taken many other classes - with Roz, Celia, Mae Mae, Yoko, and Alexis. Every single one of these teachers is absolutely amazing! Super talented, inspiring, kind, and fun. I highly recommend taking a class with any and all of these incredible people :) read more

First time at the studio and got turned away because I was running late -- on a mission to get knee pads since they charge $5 for a rental and require them and couldn't find parking. 10 minutes late and they were still sitting and talking. The music hadn't even started. No refund for the $40 class. Also beware that the 3 class special does not include heels choreography --still working on getting a refund for that. Skip this and go to Atomic Allure in Oakland instead. It's Black owned and incredibly friendly unlike Pole & Dance. Lesson learned. read more

I was feeling a little lost after moving here and was in desperate need for a new dance studio to call home. Tried out a couple of places. This one stood out. It's super well managed, the community is incredible, the instructors are brilliant, generous, and knowledgeable. Amy, Fifi, Celia, Aurora, Keeva, Sasha, Mae Mae, Yoko, Autumn, Fatima, Elizabeth, take a class, any class, you can't go wrong. Everyone is incredible. I've been here for almost a year now, a few times a week at minimum, and the quality of experience and instruction is consistent. What are you waiting for? Sign up already!! read more

If I could give them 6 stars I would! I've been going there for almost a year and have really enjoyed the community there. The students and teachers I've had including Mae Mae, Amy B, Maggie, Sahra, Celia, Christine and Autumn are so supportive and positive. It's transformed my body and given me confidence- much more than I expected when I gave it a try out of the blue! read more

Sooooo much fun and a great workout! I took a handful of Foundations classes this month, and highly recommend trying all the different instructors. They each bring their own style and tips to each class. Shoutout to my first instructor, Sahra, who did a great job explaining all the moves and making me feel comfortable with all the choreography. Definitely got me hooked and I hope to progress to the more advanced classes in the future! read more

I haven't exercised in a while, haven't danced in even longer, and I am so happy that I decided to go to a Heels/Choreography class for beginners/intermediate. I didn't bring heels, (I have sensitive bunyons), and I rented some knee pads. It felt so great to move and dance again. The instructor that night, Mae Mae (@maesweetmae) was so amazing and easy to follow. She can really bring you out of your shell and show you some moves to practice at home in front of the mirror! I will definitely be back and buying a package so I can finally get my groove back! read more

I had my first class last Saturday at the Berkeley studio with Sahra as my instructor. Sahra was amazing! She instantly made me feel comfortable and had a unique way in bringing a feeling of unity and community to our class quickly (many of us were new/first timers). It was so much fun and really made me feel more comfortable and confident in my body. I also really liked that after Sahra taught us a skill, she walked around to each and every student to help them with form and provide constructive feedback. read more

All of the studios (Oakland, Berkeley, and SF) are awesome. There is such a positive community of dancers who are both new and experienced with pole and other aerial arts. The teachers are supportive, fun, knowledgeable, and passionate. You will not find a teacher who does not LOVE pole. Guarantee this. Special shout outs to Fifi Bamboo - theres a through line of her active flex training in her choreography classes that I really appreciate. She also fosters the ability to incorporate more freestyling in her class, also very appreciated. Aurora - they are an incredible aerialist and teacher. Every class feels like you have access to a wealth of kinesthetic knowledgeable and experience which is so so valuable to dancers new and old! Celia - my L2 queen! Breaks down the intermediate skills in very accessible ways with lots of variations. Mae Mae - the ultimate hype woman. If you want to feel like the absolute bad ass you are, take her class. Always a fun class! Shiki - a new teacher (and admittedly my friend)! She has an obvious love for active flex and it absolutely comes through in her classes. I was an active flex skeptic and she's turned me to the dark side ;) Honestly, any other teacher that wasnt mentioned is simply because I don't have enough time and money to experience them all. But I have confidence that you're in good hands no matter what class you take/ at any of the affiliated studios. happy dancing! read more

Cela is an amazing artist and instructor! a friend of mine invited me to try out the Friday class, and I'm so glad I did! this studio is clean and inviting. The vibe is open and friendly, and non intimidating which I love love love. will def be back for future classes! read more

I just started taking pole classes as a pole beginner here and it's been super addicting! The instructors I've had so far have been super helpful and nice, the poles are sturdy and clean. Highly recommend! Don't forget to pick up the new student promo. read more

This studio is truly a gem! I myself owned a high end movement studio for 10 years so I have a good idea of what makes a good experience. I've wanted to dip my toes into the pole dancing world for many years and I'm so happy that I found Berkeley Pole + Dance. I've taken classes from a few different instructors and they were all excellent- great teachers, kind, supportive and inspiring. Cela or Christine is who I've trained with the most, and their style of movement and choreo is so sensual and pretty jaw dropping. I've also really enjoyed classes with Sahra, Mae Mae, and Celia. Each teacher is unique and offers perspectives that have helped me progress. The studio itself is lovely, inclusive, and a safe space for folks to come together. They have so many classes and programs, for pole, heels, other dance and fitness on the schedule from beginner to pro level. Plus they have sister studios in Oakland & Sf where you can use your class credits. I'm definitely hooked and highly recommend them for anyone interested in pole! read more

Just took a class with Cela (Christine) and I highly recommend. They are very kind and I love their style of movement. It's my second time at this studio and it is very clean and well lit. read more

I had a wonderful time at Berkeley Pole & Dance! I have no pole experience and was welcomed with open arms. Sahra is a wonderful instructor and I used my 3 pack of classes on her intro class. She made our classes SO fun and easy to follow, and I walked out feeling strong and accomplished each time. I loved my first class so much that I recruited others to join me when I came back. Looking forward to getting back in the studio with her soon :) read more

I've only taken a few intro classes. so far trainers and trainees have been nothing but awesome. Instructor Sahra is so encouraging, patient, helpful and she also offers ways to modify, the move if you are just not quite getting it. It's a lot of work but definitely worth the challenge. I've learned so much in just a few classes. I have a new found respect for the art. read more

I have taken a few pole foundations with Christine and I'll definitely be coming back! I learn something new at every class and they always help me improve on my skills. The instructor is always supportive and makes me feel comfortable in my skin. So happy this spot opened up in Berkeley! read more

Not gonna lie I was very nervous taking this class since I've never taken a dance class and have no prior experience, but after my first couple classes I'm happy I chose this place. I signed up for classes with Christine and she is just amazing. She really makes a comfortable space and is really talented in what she does. Especially if your a beginner I recommend taking her class! I'll definitely be signing up with her again! read more

Super cute little dance studio in Berkeley. Luiza the instructor got MOVES. Definitely going again.

I took a Pole Foundations class with Christine and they were INCREDIBLE!! They helped me feel so comfortable and sexy in an environment where I was totally out of my comfort zone and would have expected to feel more awkward had it not been for their ability to create such a safe atmosphere. I'm really happy they incorporated so much choreography as well. Not only did it help to give our body a break from all the climbing, but it really empowered me to feel more comfortable with my body and its movement. Can't wait to take Christine's class again! read more

I absolutely loved my first class here, Sahra is an excellent instructor and made me feel very comfortable and encouraged. Her guidance was super helpful for understanding the why and how of different movements, and I felt super happy and confident following choreography at the end of class. I highly recommend you take Sahra's foundations class! read more

My first ever pole class was with Christine Haggin and you can bet they made every moment worth it! I have not felt this free to move, flow, and be sensual in awhile. And Christine made every part of the class feel welcoming, safe, and accessible!!! 100% going to be back!!!! read more

I've participated in two intro pole classes here and I've loved them! The studio itself is well kept and clean. They also have you spray down the pole and mats with a towel and spray bottles to sanitize. The instructors I had were both really great at teaching and making you feel empowered. They were patient and encouraging. Will definitely go back! read more

I had Luiza for my second pole dancing class and she was the best!!! she was so motivational, I felt like a confident bad bih the entire time and didn't get discouraged once. The women around you are so so supportive, it really inspires you to do better when the instructor and environment is so energetic and motivational. The receptionist, Kristen, was also so nice and helpful with providing information about the studio and package deals! I immediately signed up for a package so I can return with my friends!! read more

Such an amazing and super supportive environment to learn something new!! I've been taking christine's noon class on Fridays and they are INCREDIBLE!! They break things down in an easy to follow way, is very helpful, and always brings the vibe for a fun class. Highly recommend them and this pole studio! read more

I just took an intro/ foundations class with Christine and they were amazing! So supportive and attentive during the exercises. I also appreciated the opening circle, to have a chance to see everyone face to face. I highly recommend taking a class with them! Plus, I woke up this morning sore so you know it's a good workout. read more

I took an intro class with Christine! The class was so fun and Christine was supportive and encouraging. I felt very safe and sexy! I highly recommend taking their class!! read more

i love it here so much. the instructors are so helpful and attentive, despite often having many people in the class. it's such a body positive space, with no expectations of you to be or look a certain way. very judgement and negativity free space. it's so nice to come here to get some exercise and express myself. read more