I bought a one-month membership and loved every single class offered there. The instructors here bring very unique skill sets to the class so you never feel bored. I also love that they offer other classes to enhance your strength and flexibility to supplement your pole training. I really cant wait to go back to this studio and work my ass off. read more

Ehhhh it's really more 4 1/2 stars. The instructors are wonderful, the front desk staff is fantastic and I've definitely improved since moving here from a few studios in NYC earlier this year. My only complaint is with the pricing and classes. They've eliminated a few of the classes I attended regularly with no warning or email (and these were popular, waitlisted classes) while increasing the prices, also with no warning. It's by far the best studio in DC and I love coming here, but the lack of communication from management can be really frustrating. read more

Love this place so much. Every instructor is amazing and brigs something different to the table, but they are all very skilled polers with great technique and excellent teaching skills. Most instructors focus a lot on strengthening and technique rather than being sexy and rolling on the floor (which I why I left another studio in the area). Expect a great workout and to get hooked immediately! Additionally, the staff is so friendly. The receptionists will learn your name within a few days and the instructors always try to connect with new students to get to know their abilities. It's very much like a family at PP! read more

I was a regular at their studio in Balance Gym. The only complaint I had was that the studio was too small. When they announced they were moving to their own studio up the street, I was very excited. However, the studio isn't any bigger. In fact, I'd say some of the poles are closer together. The poles on each end of the room don't get any mirror time. And the pole in the back is so close to the chimney that it could lead to injuries. For $30 a class, this is totally unacceptable. I also took a contemporary dance class in the new studio a couple years ago. What a nightmare. The instruction was fine, but there were about 25 women crammed into the tiny studio. It was physically impossible to attempt the routine, especially considering the poles were still in place. I probably should have asked for a refund. Pole Pressure has great instructors, but the space and the prices don't allow you to get your money's worth. They also tend to cater to the advanced folks. I have no desire to progress to level 3 or above due to my neck and wrist problems. Unfortunately, I've been forced to move on. PS - don't get me started on the membership levels. They are misleading and overpriced. read more

I was looking forward to reporting back good news that Pole Pressure has done a 180 degree turnaround but unfortunately that is not the case. As I referenced in my first review I always received an awesome workout here and after 3 years I was going to give them the benefit of the doubt that they have worked out the kinks with scheduling and policy issues. On 01/05/2015 I came into the studio to ask questions and find the correct class pack for me. I selected an unlimited membership and the receptionist was polite, helpful and explained to me that I would be able to take any class Monday- Saturday. I signed up for class on 01/06/2015 to take a pole/yoga class online for Wednesday 01/07/2015 at 6:30. About 5:30pm on the day of I received an email informing me that I wasn't allowed to take that class with the Membership I had chosen. I then called the studio and spoke with Selena who was very helpful as well. I explained to her that when I signed up for my unlimited membership I was told I would be able to take ANY class between Mon- Sat and now when I'm on my way to class I find out that's not the case. I further explained this was part of the reason I left before and I want to work this out. She tried to schedule me for different classes but the first available class wasn't until the 16th, I declined and she asked me if I just wanted to start in February when the classes open up for the month. I agreed and she told me she would reach out to me later. Later that evening I received the following email. Hi Nicole, Selena, front desk rep, who you spoke with this evening informed me of the displeasure you were feeling when you could not get into tonight's 'Yoga For Pole Dancers' class and you also expressed that you couldn't get into any other classes this month. Unfortunately, the 'Yoga For Pole Dancers' class is a premier membership class as stated in the title in the Mindbody reservation system. You requested a refund for your membership and would like it to restart in February 2015. We refunded the money you paid for January 2015 this evening. We are terminating your membership at Pole Pressure Downtown DC as of January 7th, 2015 and we will not be reinstating your membership at any time. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the refund, please feel free to contact me via email or phone. Thank you, Jessalynn Medairy CEO, Pole Pressure Pole Pressure Headquarters 1322 14th Street, NW Second Floor Washington, DC 20005 202-667-POLE (7653) jessalynn@polepressure. I called this morning and told Jessalynn about my issue of being misinformed when purchasing my membership and specifically the portion of her email stating " we will not be reinstating your membership at any time." She stated to me she didn't want anymore "problems" and when I asked her what she meant she stated "I left her a negative Yelp review." "You're the only one who ever left a bad review." "If there's another issue how do I know you won't blast me on the internet." REALLY????? I offered my honest opinion regarding what I have experienced at your business. As a consumer I have the RIGHT to do that without being questioned. Furthermore she never addressed the issues I described in my review. And obviously if I purchased another membership I was giving Pole Pressure another try. What I got from the conversation is she doesn't want to look bad, whether or not there are legitimate issues a customer has expressed. At the end of the conversation I expressed how offended I was and she did offer to re-instate my membership for Feb and I agreed but the more I thought about it the more it didn't sit right with me that because of my truthful Yelp review(3 years ago) and being misinformed by your staff I receive an email telling me I'm not welcome. I cannot support a business that instead of trying to fix the issue blames the customer for poor training of staff. read more

I attended this location previously had a great time in one of the classes figured that I would come back. Signed up a month ago for a twerking class, spoke to the owner by email and paid for it right away. My uncle died unexpectedly and the funeral was the same day as the class. The owner would not allow me a credit for a $15 twerking class at all. I didn't even want a refund just a credit, she just took my money based on me missing the class for my uncles death. Very disappointed in the poor professional communication with customers. I will no longer be supporting this business. Tip: Don't book the class if you for sure can't attend they won't provide you with a credit. Just hope no one passes away in your family. *four thumbs down* read more

I had my 30th birthday party here and I loved every moment. The instructor was very nice and informative. My guests and I were all beginners and she was very patient with us. I definitely recommend having your special day here! They even threw "money" on me at the end during our dance break! haha read more

I got the yelp deal for the drop-in pass/rate for this particular location. I had no idea what I what to expect. My friend and I did the Fri. eve 1-2 combo class with Kristen. The 1-2 Combo - from the explanation on the site - means it's beginners with some intermediate steps. The Combo means it's a male and female class. To start, Kristen is AWESOME. She's very encouraging, but may be a bit fast for my beginners tail. She started out with warm ups! Warning: if you don't regularly work out, be prepared to sweat, and for muscles to ache. The warm ups were simple and basic; from body rolls on the pole and squats using the pole. After warm ups we worked on various spins. Unfortunately because I don't regularly work out my thighs were screaming at me. I got in a few spins, but ended up doing my own modifications with brief rest breaks. Kristen was still very encouraging and even provided modifications. I understand now why shorts are worn. I wore leggings, but in shorts your thighs/skin is able to aid in the grip on the pole. I shall know this for the next time. As much as I love Kristen's energy, when I try this again I may have step back .. all the way back to a real beginners class. But I might try to hang with Kristen's 1-2. It wasn't all that intermediate. But Kristen does WORK you! read more

As a beginner this was the best class I have ever had. I took the class at the Cleveland park city fitness location. Devon was the instructor. The class was both fun and a good workout. The instructor acknowledged the varying levels in the class and provided great modification. She made the routine exciting. I left the class wanting more. read more

This review is for the new hula hoop class. Jordan, the instructor, is extremely nice and inviting. But the class is not well thought out, from the space, to the music, to the progression of exercises. I went in thinking it would provide some cardio, but we never broke a sweat. She was forthcoming that she was just getting started with teaching, and she has a really great attitude that I'm sure will result in fast improvement in the coming weeks. I think though that if you are looking for a cardio class, this may not be it. If you're looking for some fun and a way to break up your exercise routine, this could be a good choice. Other reviewers have commented on the friendliness of front desk staff but my experience was far different. Maybe I caught them on a bad day but overall my experience wasn't great and I won't be going to back to Pole Pressure. read more

We had a great time learning the chair dance routine!!! It was so much fun. The pole dance tricks were so hard but a lot of fun. This was our first event for our bachelorette party and it was awesome. read more

First of all, props to an environment that perfectly balances respect for your limitations with healthy encouragement to go beyond them. This is truly a place where it is to totally acceptable to work at your own level, yet, you are encouraged to compete against your own self. Not only is everyone amazing, but I am in better shape at 38 than I ever was at 28 or 18. Be prepared to work your ass off, but if you are curious, give it a shot, it is an awesome place. read more

My friend and I bought a Groupon for 5 classes for $50, and I am really enjoying my experience here. Usually for exercise, I run frequently and do weights and other classes at my gym (pretty basic stuff, like pilates, "boot camp," etc) - nothing terribly sexy in the least :) But Pole Pressure is a whole new world of fitness. The "chair play" classes are particularly fun - combining a pretty serious workout (my abs were definitely sore the next day) with sexy dance moves. The instructor Jessalyn is fantastic, clearly an amazing dancer herself but also a kind and encouraging teacher too. My friend and I joked that no matter how hard we try, we will never be able to move that way, but we just do what we can! We have a few more classes to use with the Groupon, but I know I will be back afterward to take advantage of more classes. Overall, a fantastic girls outing and really fun workout! read more

I've always wanted to try these classes but never found the right place or the time when I lived in DC. Fast toward a year and a half and I'm now a mom looking for a fun class to keep my motivation going and supplement my workouts. These classes are really great, but I try to only take classes with Jessalyn (limited mommy time so I am picky) and am addicted. I just bought the 20 pack, and am bringing several friends back. By the way, I'm tracking it all the way from Vienna on Saturday mornings to take classes. read more

My girls surprised me during my bachelorette weekend with a private class at Pole Pressure. Our instructor Francesca was great! We had all never tried pole dancing before so she was very helpful and explained everything perfectly. She had so much patience with us and was willing to go over things again and again until we got it! Even the chair dancing was so much fun! I would definitely recommend Pole Pressure for a fun and unique experience that will make you want to keep coming back for more. Thank you Pole Pressure!! :) read more

I booked a private party for a friend's bachelorette party, and we had a great time. We wanted to focus on sexy dance/ chair dance, and our class was designed to fit our desires. There was a variety of music. We had a great time, and would recommend this studio to anyone looking to have private party. read more

As a avid pole dancer, I love coming here to learn new tricks and become a better athlete and performer. Instructors are very well trained. There are a lot of events that Pole Pressure sponsors for the pole dance and student community. If you come here as a novice they encourage you to build your confidence with safe, basic moves with the first few levels. Always a great work out. I would recommend it as a place for beginners and competitors. read more

Definitely not a fan: Really awful customer service. I second reviewer Nicole F.'s comments below (please read them!). On a promise that I had been signed up for a class, I traveled an hour to the studio only to be turned away. Owner Jessalyn was called, and even though she had the power to rectify the situation (or at least make it more palatable), chose to do nothing at all. Terrible business practice. The infrastructure of ownership/offices/ad-hoc building space rented at gyms in DC is a NIGHTMARE to navigate. Go somewhere that will appreciate your patronage. Go somewhere that believes "The Customer is Always Right." These are the places that rock. Thinking about the way Pole Pressure treats customers makes my blood boil, save yourself the trouble. read more

I visited the studio for a birthday party. Had lots of fun; the instructor, Julia, was great!

First time for the free intro to pole class with a girl friend. I loved how comfortable it felt to be there with a mix of girls and guys. There were a lot of people in the class so two per pole. But it was nice having a friend for support, I don't know if it was weird sharing with a stranger. It's the day after and my arms, abs and thighs are tight and all she did was show is a few basic moves. I can only aims gone what a full out class would do. I'm exited to visit them again! A cozy location too. read more

Pole pressure is my home away from home. Pole is creative, challenging and exciting. The studio is full of warm and encouraging instructors and students. Highly recommend. read more

I went to the open house in the middle of March since I've been looking for a studio. I absolutely loved it so I signed up for a Limited Membership where I can take classes Monday-Saturday. I'm considering an Unlimited Membership, but I'm going to wait until I get better (currently in Pole 1). The things I love: The instructors are encouraging and very fun to work with. This is a judge free zone, which is incredibly important when you're half naked and trying to look somewhat coordinated. There's a lot of review in Pole 1, which is nice for someone who tends to forget the names of moves or just forget the moves in its entirety. Lots of laughs and fun times. Things that could be improved: The lessons in Pole 1 vary quite a lot from instructor to instructor. Some like more choreography while others have a different focus; however, there are basics that are taught and reviewed almost every class. It feels like a lot of review, but I think it's important to get the very basics down. I only joined a month ago and am in Pole 1 and I went to an All Levels pole class recently. While this was rather intimidating, the instructor was really accommodating. While others were doing inverses and tricks on the pole, he worked with my friend and I to understand how to get into an inverse and how they feel. It was really great and I learned a lot in that class. It was also really amazing to see how advanced some of students are--I can't wait to get to that point! They're so graceful..I'm still trying to not tip over after a Catch spin. It's a really wonderful studio :) read more

Pole Pressure is my happy place. This is the first activity that I have found since college that was fun and physically challenging incorporating both dance and acrobatics. The instructors here are the absolutely best in the area. It is the only pole dancing studio in the area that is owned by an actual USPDF finalist. It is the only pole studio in the Washington DC area that is part of and respected by the international pole community. The community in this studio is what really sets it apart from the rest. I have never been part of a more supportive and enthusiastic community and have met some terrific friends. I feel that it is now more than a hobby and is a really big part of my life. The instructors are always prepared with new challenging material and really focus on correct technique. Every time I go, I always learn something new, and I always have a fabulous time! read more

I have been going to Pole Pressure since November 2010 and I love it. Especially the instructor that I've had for the past a few months, Kelley. She's amazing and always pushing us. You have to be strong to be in her class, if you can't lift yourself up don't even try her classes, you're wasting your time. I give it four stars because they put more poles in and we keep bumping shoes/legs, etc when we do spins. I think they became a bit too greedy by adding more poles to such as small space. read more

Oh this is my favorite place for fitness right here ;-) Try Jess, Kelly & Amanda's class and you would be a regular old vixen I promise.

This private class was awesome! I booked pole pressure for a private class for my best friend's bachelorette weekend. This was by far the best activities we did this weekend! We're all super sore today but happy we had the chance to get such a fun workout in. The staff is great and very professional. Can't wait to do this again! read more

Is it a good workout? Absolutely! Are all of the instructors friendly/personable? No (Zurry and one other I can't remember the name of were the only ones I actually enjoyed taking classes with).I waited months to post this and am deducting a star for something uber important....I stopped attending in March but in June discovered not only were they still charging me for every month after March.....but they were charging me the monthly fee TWICE a month.The fact I didn't notice is sad on my part (I hate reviewing statements,but guess who changed that bad habit?),but the fact that their accounting was so off with my account is even sadder.Hopefully I was just the random person this happened to and billing issues aren't the norm with PP. read more

Recently had my bachelorette party in D.C. and wanted to treat my bridal party to a new, unique experience. Since the girls made the trip to D.C. from all over the country, I thought this pole class would be the perfect experience. We reserved a private class on a Saturday afternoon and honestly, didn't know what to expect. Our instructor was very friendly and boy oh boy did we learn some new moves! From chair dancing to learning how to "work" the pole, we all took the class pretty seriously- but not without some laughs :) I highly recommend doing this for a bachelorette party as it's a fun experience for all (and your boyfriends will be very curious to learn more!) Do bring a bottle of champagne to help the more shy girls loosen up, I promise you'll laugh about it later! When else is it socially acceptable to learn how to pole dance and let loose but at a bachelorette party?! Do it! read more

Tried unsuccessfully not one, not two, but THREE times to attend an introductory class - last night Champagne Fridays [$30] didn't hold, which wasn't posted on the website. I tried not to view it as a wasted trip & instead took a tour of the beautiful studio on 14th. Missed their Saturday noon offering's grace period by 5 minutes due to unusually heavy traffic, & the receptionist wasn't the least bit interested in making any concessions [businesses that are serious about growing their client bases know when to do so]. Bit the bullet, registered online for a later offering in Cleveland Park, drove over 45 minutes early. First told I wasn't registered, then told I was, which was quickly retracted [it'd been full since yesterday [capacity of 6, which isn't shown online] and that I shouldn't have been able to click in. For now at least, I'm not interested in wasting anymore gas or precious time. Needless to say purchasing classes is out of the question. Pity, I was so excited & thought I was onto something . . . read more

Pole Pressure DC is my 2nd home :) I love this place so much!! Instructors are professional and friendly and always willing to assist/breakdown moves. We are constantly challenged to become the best polers we can be. I have progressed so much since starting here and I can't wait to see how much further I can go! read more

First off, let me start this review by saying I have been a paying customer of Pole Pressure for the last 3 months or so. Earlier this week, I received their newsletter advertising a free 'Furlough Friday' all levels Pole class at 12:30 pm due to the government shutdown. Since I am out of work due to the shutdown I decided to go. I signed up for the class at 11am Friday morning via the mobile app, which stated there were 2 spots left. I live in SE DC, just east of the river, and when I arrived for the class approx. 5-10 mins late after trying to find parking, the door was locked. Eventually someone came to open it, but said the class was full and that she had taken the last spot. I was immediately confused because I knew I had pre-registered for the class and to me that meant I should have been guaranteed a space, or in the least, given a grace period to arrive before my spot was given away. No where in the newsletter or in the mobile app did it say that there was some kind of 'first come - first served' policy in place. Additionally, if that was the case, why even provide the option of signing up or pre-registering for the class, especially when there's a limited amount of poles? That was my first issue. The customer who opened the door graciously offered to share her pole with me, and I reluctantly went inside because I had already driven there all the way from SE DC in the pouring rain and searched for a parking space. Before I could even cross the threshold into the workout space, the instructor yells very curtly and abruptly "We're full! Can you lock the door!" I just felt that was a bit much. Again, I was under the impression that I had a reserved space, late or not - free class or not, and then to be yelled at very rudely to basically go away, was a bit much for me. The least I should have gotten was an apology for being shut out of a class I signed up for by people who obviously failed to do so. This was my second issue. Needless to say, I will not be returning to this location ever again. It is too much of a hassle for me to get to and the parking is horrendous. I may return to my usual location because that instructor always treats me with respect. Anyone reading this interested in pole fitness, try the P Spot in Capitol Hill, they are always warm, sincere, and appreciative of their clients. They always run groupon deals on classes and even their regular priced classes are cheaper than Pole Pressure's! read more

The class is hard but Jessalyn is a great teacher - very fun and encouraging. I think teachers make or break a class and she definitely makes it. I would give this place 5 stars except that some of the other teachers don't quite live up to Jessalyn. read more

DO NOT GO HERE...THESE PEOPLE ARE RUDE AND UNCOOPERATIVE! I've been in contact with the folks at Pole Fitness for over 3 months about a champagne class on Friday night. My best friend is getting married next month and I am hosting a bachelorette party in DC for her...the plan was to take a pole dancing class from 10-12am. The ladies at the downtown DC location were extremely rude and uncooperative with us...(please remember...I've been setting this up for months) We were turned away and told that because we had a few drinks with dinner...(2 drinks per person for a bachelorette party) that we couldn't participate in the class. Let me prefice this with the fact that no one would talk to us about this nor explained to us this policy which states on the website - "An international reputation, the area's best polers, and positive energy is what Pole Pressure has every day. Our goal as a studio is to continue to offer elements that you can't find anywhere else. 'Wow!' is a word we like to hear regularly. Our instructors are extremely personable, and you will enjoy our services. We take you as our number priority and we enjoy our studio being your favorite place to hang out and workout." If it is company policy to be uncooperative with people that have had minimal drinks before taking the class then this needs to be clearly stated on the website and needs to clearly stated before taking appointments. I hate to sound pessimistic but eliminating this clientele would eliminate your pool of customers. read more