Improve your pole grip

Grip starts before class

Skin condition, temperature, fatigue and the pole surface all affect how secure your grip feels. Start with clean, dry hands and avoid body lotion on training days.

Warm up the pole and your hands

A cold pole can feel slippery. Your warm-up prepares your muscles and gradually improves contact with the equipment. Take your time before attempting moves that rely heavily on grip.

Match the product to the body area

Hand grip and body grip solve different problems. Products for the hands are usually designed to keep sweaty palms dry and improve hand contact. Products for the legs and body are made to add tack to larger areas of skin. Do not assume that one product works equally well everywhere: check its intended use and ask your teacher when you are unsure.

Use grip products with care

More product does not always create more control. Begin with a small amount, let it dry if the instructions require it and avoid leaving residue on the pole. Grip is an aid, not a replacement for correct contact points and technique.

Strength matters too

Grip strength develops through regular training. Fatigue can reduce control near the end of a session, so adapt your exercises and stop before technique becomes unsafe.