The Complete Guide to Pole and Aerial Competitions
The Complete Guide to Pole & Aerial Competitions
By Giordaina Hartley – 17-time Pole & Aerial Champion
Are you dreaming of stepping onto the competition stage, but not sure where to start?
Or maybe you’ve competed before and want to level up your performance, confidence and the results.
This comprehensive guide takes you through every stage of the pole and aerial competition journey. From finding your “why” and choosing the right competition, to crafting your routine, preparing for the big day and learning from every experience.
Drawing from over a decade of pole training, five years of aerial hoop, four years of trapeze, four years of silks and 17 competition wins (including London Pole Championships, Midlands Pole Championships, Yorkshire Pole Championships, UK Amateur Aerial Performer, Great British Pole Championships, Miss Pole Dance UK, London Aerial Championships, In the Spotlight and the Body and Pole Competition), I’ve packed this guide with everything I wish I’d known when I started.
Inside, you’ll discover:
- How to find your motivation and stay connected to your “why”
- How to choose the right competition, category, and style for you
- Step-by-step guidance on music, theme, costume, and storytelling
- Training tips for building strength, flexibility, and stage confidence
- Expert advice on choreography, musicality, and trick selection
- Mental preparation, day-of strategies, and post-performance reflection
- Bonus tools: UK competition lists, progress trackers, routine builders & checklists
Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or a seasoned performer, this guide will help you feel prepared, empowered and inspired every step of the way.
Competing isn’t just about winning, it’s about growth, creativity and connection. This guide will help you bring your best self to the stage.
👉 Get your copy and start your competition journey today!
Contents
1. My Competing Journey
2. Decide Why You Want to Compete
3. Choosing the Right Competition
4. Understand the Rules & Judging Criteria
5. Crafting Your Routine
6. Choreographing your routine
7. Preparing for the day
8. On the day
9. After the Competition
10. Supplementary