Pole position

Picture sexy, scantly-clad sirens parading around a pole. This could be you. Pole dancing is the latest fitness craze - and it's coming to a venue near you. But how fit can you really get?

Love to have fun and feel as hot as J Lo? Then pole dancing is for you. All you need is a pair of heels, some shorts and the desire to shake your booty. This course is run by women for women - so you're in safe hands.

Whether you're a mover on the dance floor is irrelevant - woman attend from all walks of life. I joined the ladies on the last night of the course where students show off their routine to a music track of their choice.

Let's dance

Our instructor, Nikki, took us through a warm-up and went through a series of all the moves that had been taught over the previous five weeks. Her ability to walk, spin and swivel in the air wearing six-inch heels was most impressive. Corkscrews, straight-legs, swivels, backwards-turns - the dance moves looked fantastic.

After signing up for the course in your first week you learn how to walk in your heels and around the pole. This looks a lot easier than it is! You're likely to feel dizzy at your first attempt and will have to really concentrate.

Once you're comfortable with the first stage you move on to basic moves and progress to more complicated steps that manoeuvre you creatively around and beside the pole. The music helps you establish the rhythm and speed of your dance.

Toned limbs

Pole dancing helps to tone your upper arms, shoulders and legs. Most of the moves require you to briefly support your own body weight with your arms.

You also get a gentle cardiovascular workout because you are constantly moving. You gradually build your stamina too - dancing to a three-minute song on a pole takes more endurance than you might think.

Ensure you have a light bite to eat a couple of hours beforehand so you'll have enough energy and concentration for the two-hour class.

In addition, drink plenty of still water to hydrate your body. You're able to take as many breaks as you need.

The new you

Most of the dancers felt that the course boosted their confidence and helped them overcome their inhibitions. There's plenty of support from the group and the instructor. If you mess up, you're simply encouraged to have another go.

Why do it?

Pole dancing simply doesn't feel like exercise. It's a break from the norm and you'll get a great workout accompanied by much giggling.

For more information on courses, go to http://www.polepeople.co.uk