The pole and aerial world is thriving on social media. From jaw-dropping tricks to detailed tutorials and perfectly curated feeds, it’s easy to be captivated by the online presence of some coaches and performers. And while a large following can be impressive, here’s the truth: it’s a reflection of great marketing, not necessarily great teaching.
Some of the best pole and aerial teachers you’ll ever work with don’t have viral reels or tens of thousands of followers. And that’s okay. Because at the end of the day, great teaching isn’t about likes—it’s about your progress as a student.
So, how do you figure out who will help you reach your pole or aerial goals? Let’s dive into what really makes a coach stand out.
The Problem With Judging By Follower Counts It’s tempting to equate a large social media following with expertise, but the reality is that having a huge platform is often more about savvy marketing than skill as a teacher. Social media rewards entertaining and visually appealing content, not necessarily deep knowledge or teaching ability.
Some incredible pole and aerial teachers do have a big online presence. They balance stellar coaching with building their brand. But for many, their strength lies in the studio or one-on-one sessions where they’re not focusing on going viral—they’re focusing on you.
What Makes a Great Pole or Aerial Teacher? So, if it’s not the follower count, what should you look for in a coach? Here are the hallmarks of a great teacher:
They Tailor Their Approach to You Pole and aerial arts aren’t one-size-fits-all. A great teacher will adapt their guidance to your specific needs, whether you’re building strength for dynamic tricks, recovering from an injury, or chasing clean lines in your inverts.
They Prioritise Safety Progress is exciting, but it should never come at the expense of your health. A good coach knows how to balance pushing your limits with respecting your body’s needs. They’ll emphasise proper technique, sustainable flexibility work, and injury prevention.
They Genuinely Care About Your Journey A great coach isn’t just invested in their personal success—they’re invested in yours. They’ll take the time to understand your goals, celebrate your wins, and guide you through setbacks with encouragement and expertise.
They’re Knowledgeable (And Open to Learning) Great teachers have a deep understanding of the body, movement mechanics, and their craft. But they’re also lifelong learners. They’re constantly refining their skills and seeking out new ways to help their students succeed.
How to Be Mindful About the Information You Consume Social media is a powerful tool, but it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Here’s how to navigate the endless stream of pole and aerial advice online:
Check Their Credentials: Does this person have training, certifications, or experience that backs up what they’re teaching?
Consider the Context: Is their advice generalised, or does it apply to your unique body and goals?
Look Beyond the Likes: Instead of focusing on their follower count, check for signs of thoughtful, well-informed guidance. Are they explaining why certain techniques work? Do they demonstrate progressions that make sense?
Why Your Value as a Student (or Teacher) Isn’t Tied to Social Media For students, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind if you don’t have a picture-perfect feed or viral tricks. But here’s the thing: your worth isn’t defined by social media. Your progress, dedication, and joy in your practice matter far more.
For aspiring teachers, remember that you don’t need a massive following to make a huge difference. Your ability to connect with students and help them grow is what truly counts.
How We Support Your Pole and Aerial Journey At Body & Movement Collective, we understand the unique challenges of pole and aerial training. Whether you’re working on flexibility, strength, recovery, or injury treatment, our tailored approach ensures that your needs come first.
We offer:
1:1 Personal Training: Build the strength and endurance you need for dynamic pole and aerial tricks.
Pole & Flexibility Coaching: Target specific moves, develop safe flexibility, and refine your technique.
Chiropractic Care, Physiotherapy, and Remedial Massage: Recover from injuries, reduce pain, and improve mobility with evidence-based treatments tailored to the demands of pole and aerial training.
Our team isn’t focused on follower counts. We’re focused on you and your goals.
Ready to Work Together? If you’re looking for personalised guidance to help you thrive in your pole and aerial journey, we’re here to help. Book a session today and let’s make those goals happen!
Social media has its place in the pole and aerial community, but don’t let it define how you choose your teachers or measure your progress. Focus on what truly matters: growth, safety, and the joy of movement. Whether you’re a student or a teacher, you have so much to offer—online and off.
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