You've decided this is the year you move more. Now comes the hard part: picking something you'll stick to.
Here's an honest comparison. We run a pole studio, so yes, we're biased. We'll still tell you where the others shine.
Reformer pilates
Great for: core control, posture, low-impact strength and rehab-friendly movement.
Reformer is controlled, precise and gentle on the joints. If you're recovering from injury or want calm, steady work, it's a brilliant choice.
Where it can fall short: some people find the repetition gets samey after a few months.
The gym
Great for: building strength with measurable progress, flexible hours and full control over your training.
If you love programs, numbers and training solo, the gym is hard to beat.
Where it can fall short: motivation. Without a coach or community, many people stop going once the new year energy fades.
Pole dancing
Great for: upper body and grip strength, core strength, flexibility, confidence and community.
Pole is resistance training using your own body weight. You're pulling, lifting and holding yourself every class, which builds strength through your arms, back and core. Here's how long it takes to get strong at pole.
The thing that sets pole apart is the skill. Every week there's a new spin or move to chase. That goal keeps people coming back long after motivation alone would have run out.
Where it can fall short: the first few classes can leave your hands and forearms sore while your grip adapts. It settles quickly.
Which one should you choose?
Choose reformer if you want low-impact, controlled movement.
Choose the gym if you love structure and training alone.
Choose pole if you want strength, skill and a community that notices when you don't turn up.
Can you do more than one?
Yes, and many of our students do. Pilates and gym work both support pole progress. At Polaris, every membership includes pole, pole flow and flexibility classes, so you can cover a lot of that base inside the studio.
The real test: will you keep going?
The best workout is the one you're still doing in six months. Our students tell us pole is the first exercise they've ever looked forward to, and that is the reason they stay. See what changes after 3 months of pole dancing.
FAQs
Is pole dancing a good workout?
Yes. Pole builds upper body, grip and core strength, plus flexibility, using your own body weight.
Is pole dancing harder than pilates?
They challenge you differently. Pole demands more upper body strength early on, while reformer focuses on controlled core work.
How do I try pole in Perth?
Start with the Polaris Studios Intro Offer: 8 classes over 4 weeks plus 24-hour studio access for $130.
