Ascension Pole and Dance - Boise, Idaho

Sarah M.

From the day I got the call checking to make sure I was still going to the exclusively beginner series in the beginning of 2022, I have LOVED this place. I had horrendous social anxiety and body dysmorphia because of how underweight I was in the beginning. The staff and the others in my class were so unbelievably kind and not once did I feel judged or unwelcome. I had been wanting to try pole dancing for a while and saw them at Pride when I was barely touching my gender identity and sexuality, so it naturally felt right to come here for my classes.

I had been out of town the first week of EB and the instructor called after I didn't show, but it all worked out and I didn't feel weird coming in the second week/class. I absolutely loved the vibes and the classes themselves and immediately started the starter membership, then upgraded to the highest membership for the most classes. I went to choreo classes, normal pole classes, heels classes, floorwork classes, everything. The community that this studio has built is phenomenal, welcoming, and supportive. I've never felt uncomfortable because of the people at the studio, only from my own discomfort about my body (which every class, one of the "rules" is "No judgy pole shorts" and we all have different bodies and that's okay).

Going consistently not only has helped with my goal of building muscle (which I've never been able to by going to the gym since my ADHD brain views it as boring, but pole isn't), but it also made me far more comfortable with my body and made me realize just how beautiful my different body is. I was never treated differently for being neurospicy or when I've rotated between preferred names/pronouns. My preferred names/pronouns are consistently respected and anytime anyone forgets about it, they immediately apologize and correct themselves.

The classes themselves, while the instructors try to make it as fun as possible, are also safety-oriented. The leveling system that the studio has emphasizes body awareness and safe movement. One big thing that emphasized with each class is "listen to your body," such as if you're too tired to do a move then don't do it or if you feel like you're not secure while moving into a move then don't do it and call for help. There's an ongoing joke with end-of-class free dance of the staff not being your crash mat and not to do anything you can't get yourself into and out of safely, which is both hilarious and safety-oriented. My cling-to-the-pole-for-dear-life danger response has gotten me far

After coming to the studio for over a year and a half, I decided to join the crew so I could help other people have the experience I have with how welcoming and supportive I felt, as well as how much fun I've had and reeling people into the studio community. Everyone was super supportive through my apprentice training then the transition of me becoming a full-on instructor not too long ago. Everyone is super understanding and patient with me as I double-check notes occasionally, and me instructing the choreography that I make each week. There's no expectation for perfection, only safety.

Overall, Ascension has become both a second home and a second family to me. The people at this studio taught me what real friends are like and gave me the courage to leave toxic situations after realizing how toxic they were. The owner doesn't make themselves separate from everyone else and makes them feel like someone that's on your level, which is super nice. Anytime you're having issues with mental health, everyone is super respectful and supportive and respects if you need to leave the dance floor to go to the back area to calm down. This studio is definitely a safe place for the neurospicy, rainbow members, disabled friends, etc.

If you're looking for a fun and rewarding hobby or even a side hustle (once you're comfortable with dancing and moves), this definitely the place for you. If I could give more stars, I would. Ascension has brought me so far in life with the classes, atmosphere, and community. 100/100

Evelyn S.

I just finished with Exclusively Beginner Pole and I am in love. I’m introverted and not great at control over my body or finding myself sexy but pole is SO sexy and I’m engaging muscles I don’t think I’ve ever used before. I plan to spend a lot more time here in the future. Clean, professional studio, safe and patient guidance with 1 on 1 advice from instructors and lots of options on what to learn/at what pace. Highly recommend.

Anne A.

I have been training here at Ascension for almost 4 years. When I first started back in 2018 (!)- I was just picking myself up from rock bottom. Ascension offered a place for me to call my second home. I applied for the polership they offer- and was accepted. At the time it felt unreal that I would have the opportunity to start learning what has become a passion of mine. They helped introduce me to a community I forever want to be apart of. All the instructors are patient, kind, and have helped me listen to parts of my body that I never knew existed. I have grown a deep love and respect for all the humans that attend Ascension- and I HIGHLY recommend this dance studio if you've ever had the pole dance itch. IT'S WORTH IT.

Anna K.

A fantastic place if you'd like to get into shape while looking beautiful and having fun in a clean, orderly environment with inclusive, friendly people. The staff is above and beyond friendly and skilled, the clients are an amazing group you'll want to be part of and the owner is knowlegeable, professional, and committed to excellence, health and safety. Worth a try but warning: you will want to keep going! There are a variety of classes for all ages, body types, abilities, etc. and zero judegments about who or where you are.

Crow A.

After having read some of these reviews, I feel someone needs to shine some light on this wonderful establishment and crew. I started off in the exclusively beginners, 5 week course, where the owner themselves taught the class. Not only were they super respectful of everyone, they went above and beyond to make all of the new students feel welcome, and getting to know us all more personally. After just one class,we were all laughing and sharing socials, even though none of us had met before. The class was structured very nicely, with the instructor/owner always willing to answer questions and demonstrate the moves as many times as we all needed! We were even able to get a bit extra help individually when needed. As someone who is disabled, they provided ways to do the moves with everyone else, without causing pain or strain on my body! It was absolutely fantastic, and they are so welcoming to everyone. I'm even still in classes now, and enjoying all of the other instructors and students as well! They've made an amazing environment here that you CANNOT find anywhere else.

Eryn S. L.

There’s not enough good things I can say about Ascension but I’ll try to sum it up:

1. Welcoming: from my first EB class to my most recent I’ve walked into a smile from the front desk and instructors and a genuine “I am happy you are here” attitude.
2. Fun: even when you slip, lose your grip, or struggle the vibe is so FUN. There is laughter and sharing of stories and encouragement from the instructors and peers in attendance. Each class starts with an ice breaker to help ease you out of the stress you may have walked into the building with - after some chuckles it’s time to dance. It is a fantastic psychological tool to building comfort prior to doing something that is physically demanding.
3. Self-love: as someone struggling with their body image this is a place I don’t feel like I have to worry about my gut or my butt or my anything! Regardless how I look there are no judgy pole shorts or glances. My confidence has grown so much in the 6 months since starting classes.
4. The instructors: while all of them are amazing I want to call out Hailey and Kate specifically. All my questions are answered with kindness and patience. Hailey helped me overcome my fear of commitment when it came to getting off the ground doing chair spins and now it’s one of my favorite moves. And Kate, wow what a fantastic human, they truly go above and beyond for this community and their students. I had been struggling at work one day and came to class completely overwhelmed only to find it had been canceled due to low attendance (I was the only one signed up) - Kate let me cry on their shoulder and consoled me. Since I was signed up for open pole following the class they let me have time to process my emotions and still get a workout in. I don’t know anywhere else where you can cry in a bra and spanks while dancing on a pole and no one judges you for it.

This is truly a judgement free zone that accepts all bodies, genders, and passions. If you’re still on the fence about trying pole, give it a shot! I can’t wait to see you next to me in class 💕

Iris R. P.

I've been taking pole dancing classes at Ascension for the past 14 months, and I've loved every minute of it! The studio is incredibly inclusive, and the instructors are always welcoming and supportive, regardless of your body type, fitness level, or experience. The studio offers a variety of body positive imagery, such as posters and flyers featuring students and instructors of all shapes and sizes.The studio also hosts events and workshops that focus on body positivity and self-confidence as well.

One of the things I love most about Ascension is that they offer a variety of classes for different levels and interests. The studio offers modifications for moves so that everyone can participate, regardless of their abilities.There are beginner classes for those who are new to pole dancing, as well as intermediate and advanced classes for those who want to challenge themselves. There are also classes that focus on specific skills, such as flexibility, heelwork, or choreography.

I've also been really impressed by the way Ascension strives to make sure everyone feels comfortable in their own bodies. The instructors are always encouraging and positive, and they never make anyone feel self-conscious. They also make sure to provide modifications for moves so that everyone can participate, regardless of their abilities.

Ascension is a safe space for EVERYONE and I've made some great friends here. The community is really supportive and welcoming, and I always feel like I'm part of something special when I'm there.

Overall, I've had a wonderful experience at Ascension. The classes are challenging and fun, the instructors are amazing, and the studio is incredibly inclusive. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in trying pole dancing!

jessica S.

I have been a member of Ascension for over 2 years now and I have to say its one of my favorite places to be. It has done wonders for my strength and confidence. Classes are designed to build strength and have fun while you dance. The community is amazing and all the instructors do an amazing job of helping you grow as you learn new skills. There is also a variety of different classes to keep things fun and fresh. Pole lessons focus on building skills so that you achieve more difficult moves. I remember when I could hardly climb up the pole, and now im doing inverts! Floorwork and twerk classes taught me how to move my body with confidence, all while getting some really fun exercise. I highly recommend Ascension for anyone that wants a fun way to get their body moving!!!