★ 2

I am a gymnastics coach and personal trainer. I’ve been a coach for over a decade and have a certificate in Trauma Informed teaching, so I’m familiar with instructing bodies doing hard skills.

I have been coming to Ascendance for the last year, essentially every week- it is 5 minutes from my house and the most convenient studio to come to and honestly had such high hopes for this being my home studio.

I have taken classes from most of the instructors, and each class and instructor is EXTREMELY different. A lot of the instructors are mean girls on a power trip, they are the gatekeepers of pole- they won’t allow you to do moves that others in the class are allowed to do (read: just me, I’m not allowed). I’ve been yelled at more than once for “teaching” when I was actually just helping show someone how to do a skill that the instructor asked ME TO SHOW THE WHOLE CLASS. I’ve been told I’m not ready for the next level even though I’ve leveled up at 2 other studios. I’ve taken 2 series classes and both instructors didn’t remember my name or meeting me (after over 6 weeks working with the same instructor). I kept coming back hoping to find an instructor that seemed both passionate about pole and not a mean girl, and hopefully a great coach and I found that in Shanice.

Shanice is the only reason I still give my money to Ascendance. If I could pay her directly I would- she knows pole, she knows how to instruct in a gentle and fun way, she’s encouraging and she doesn’t make you feel like you are doing something wrong just because you don’t know the skills yet. She doesn’t roll her eyes, yell at you for helping others, or ignore you for an entire class.

(Not to even mention the issues buying series classes, trying to figure out the shitty app they use or how expensive it is compared to other studios)

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a very welcoming community! Such a diverse set of classes that really help anyone from every skill level. I've recommended this to friends as well. Great studio to keep active while having a good time doing it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going to this studio on and off now for the past year. I am a plus size lady (size 16-18) and have always felt welcomed and encouraged. I've taken pole with multiple instructors (Baby Cakes, Shanice, Candace, JoJo, and Andrea) all have been very kind, encouraging, informative and inclusive. I have also taken ONE Lyra class recently, the instructor (Kelsey) was very informative, kind, and encouraging! I may not be the best or GOOD at any of it, but ive grown better balance, more arm strength, and feel excited to go work out! They also have plus size instructors in addition to the more slim Instructors. They offer Beggining Pole and Lyra classes specifically tailored towards plus size students, but encourage people to take what ever beginning class they are most comfortable with! I can't say enough wonderful things about Ascendance!

Source: Google

★ 5

So glad I cancelled my boring gym membership to come here more! I have minimal background in dance but I happen to live close by and was looking for a more fun way to be active. After a few months, this studio has been my answer.
I have taken every beginner class offered: pole, silks, lyra, aerial yoga, and handstands via classpass. I have nearly completed the full beginner pole series as well, and am planning on starting drop-in L1 pole classes next. Andrea is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructor, and I've unexpectedly become hooked on the little wins I come away with each time I come to the pole.
I have found all the other beginner classes to be great as well! The instructors at Ascendance are highly adept at meeting me where I am and making me feel proud of accomplishing something new. The environment is so supportive and welcoming. Looking forward to continuing my fitness journey here for the time being!

Source: Google

★ 1

As a complete beginner, I was excited to try this. I knew I probably wouldn’t be any good at it but I had watched some YouTube videos and it looked fun and I figured it was worth a shot. I have a couple limitations that I mentioned when the instructor asked- my left ankle and my wrists. Several times throughout the class she made me feel like these were though she did provide alternatives but she made me feel bad about them as if I was inconveniencing her. Additionally, she mentioned my weight several times, both times in very condescending manners- once to tell me that my push strength was not aligned with my weight, so she did not adjust the height of my hammock though I felt it did need to be adjusted and the other time when she not so nicely corrected my folding of the hammock and said mine needed to be bigger. I heard and saw her make similar corrections to other people in the class and I didn’t hear her mention anything about their weight, which made me feel singled out and that she needed me to know specifically that my weight was a problem. I decided to leave before the end of class because I don’t have time for an instructor who isn’t inclusive or understanding that all participants are different. I definitely wouldn’t be back here, and if you’re my size or bigger (size 12-14 and up) I would beware of Candace as an instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

My home studio since Feb 2025 and safe to say I’m staying here as long as I possibly can! I love it here. Great instructors, great community, and amazing feelings during and after each class! Big shoutout to my regular teachers: Molly and Andrea!

Source: Google

★ 1

Tokenizing vulnerable communities

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★ 5

loved taking a private aerial hammock class with Erin! I booked it to celebrate my birthday with a group of friends, and the cost for our group was comparable to the price of individual classes – definitely was worth booking for a more private experience. Erin was very accommodating, asking about our experience levels and interests beforehand to tailor the class for us. The warm-ups and stretches were really enjoyable, useful and didn’t take up too much time, leaving us plenty of opportunity to learn a beautiful routine. Erin was an excellent instructor – she not only made sure we were comfortable but also encouraged us to challenge ourselves with some intermediate skills, which felt so rewarding. I would absolutely love to take this class again if I get the chance!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a GEM in Renton！ Fun challenging classes. I have been taken Lyra and Silk classes for half a year, absolutely love them.

Source: Google

★ 5

Had my first pole class via Class Pass with Andrea and I can honestly say it was such a great experience! There were about 7 girls total in our class, 3 more experienced than myself and 2 others. We did share the pole but it wasn’t too bad. As someone who weight lifts I wanted to try something else other than lifting and this did it. It was a humbling experience, a lot harder than it looks but a good challenge. I’m in town temporarily, but if I get the chance, I’d go again as Andrea was super nice, a great teacher and very encouraging! 10/10

Source: Google

★ 5

COMPLETELY WORTH IT. Welcoming atmosphere....Quality instruction that makes you feel confident as a beginner. When the instructor dances with the music it all comes together and you feel sexy and strong. Brilliant class.

Source: Google

★ 5

I took my first pole class in December 2023 and ever since I have been addicted! The staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable. Ascendance provides an environment that encourages each student to express themselves in their own unique way! There are many classes to choose from, and their prices are affordable. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Staff is very friendly and helpful. I wished I lived closer so I could take more classes! UPDATE: Just updating as I have been going for a few years now. I absolutely love this studio. The community here is very supportive and make it feel like home. They go out of their way to teach you proper technique to minimize injury. And they have fun events like community classes and showcases. Even though I still live a ways away, I make it a point to go to as many classes as I can. Definitely recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I just took my first beginner pole class and am SOOO impressed! Jojo was great with explaining everything. We all had so much fun!

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★ 5

This studio has inspired and supported me beyond my expectations.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Lovely space, lovely people. Nothing more you could ask for. I hope to come back here!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Supper accepting and a challenging arial yoga class!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Tried the Hoop level 2 by April, she’s incredibly fun, intuitive and skilled. She made the class such an enjoyable and yet challenging experience with the techniques she taught. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love taking classes here with JoJo! I’m new to pole but she makes it so easy and fun. I leave my classes feeling more confident and with specific moves to continue practicing on my own.

Source: Google

★ 5

Super welcoming, inclusive space. Instructors are amazing and I learn new things every time I come to class. I'm excited to continue my pole journey here.

Source: Google

★ 5

You all are seriously the best! I've only done two pole classes so far (ever and both with Ascendance) but have had awful experiences with gyms/group fitness. Ascendance has been an absolute game changer and is now becoming a second home. So thank you, from the bottom of my heart! Couldn't recommend this space more! If I could give it a million stars I would. <3

Source: Google

★ 5

Great environment, great teachers, body positive, and great location.

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★ 5

I have had a wonderful experience with this studio. Aerial arts is not only a fun skill to learn but it’s a great workout too. I have worked with three different instructors (Elaine, Cynthia and Liz). Elaine’s approach will make an absolute beginner feel at ease. You will learn so much in little time in Cynthia’s classes. Liz has an eye for technique and will breakdown a sequence so you can master it. If you are interested in pole/ aerial arts I definitely recommend this studio!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Love this place! Super easy to book classes, and I appreciate the variety of different dance styles. They make an effort to be welcoming to beginners as well as old pros. Their monthly memberships are a great value!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely awesome.

The place is bright, clean and air conditioned. The staff are professional and friendly. Every instructor I've had the privilege of meeting has been knowledgeable and fun. Their instructors have a wide variety of backgrounds and interests, so students get to experience a range of techniques and styles.

They meet people where they are as far as skill level and strength, and are genuinely inclusive of different body types (not just lip service to the idea).

There is a real sense of community, both in the way the staff and instructors engage with classes, but also in the events they hold that bring people together to support one another.

Ascendance is wonderful and I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Teachers are wonderful. I go mostly to feel empowered in my body and it does just that. Sure, I might not look elegant, but I have people who will keep cheering me on and that is good enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this studio! I came in for a 2 weeks trial just to dip my toes in, and here 3 months later still love to learn pole dance. All instructors are knowledgeable and have their own style, you will definitely find a teacher that you vibe with.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great staff, clean environment, and amazing instructors! I have been going for about 6 months now and love it more and more every time.

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★ 5

Super clean studio with really awesome people and instructors! They really take you at whatever level you’re at and work to meet your skill set and goals. Thank you Jojo and Candace!

Source: Google

★ 5

My new favorite place to get a good workout in! 😍
I showed up to my first class with zero experience and now I’ve probably taken about 18 classes and still loving it! Every instructor has made me super comfortable and I never felt embarrassed for not knowing what to do or being slow at learning some of the moves they teach. I’ve taken intro to pole, pole drop in classes, active flexibility, heels fundamentals, pole choreography, floorwork and even freestyle flow movement. All amazing! I’m totally addicted and always look forward to coming back! ☺️ Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this studio! I signed up for an Intro to Pole series on a whim in November 2021, and I have been going ever since. There are a lot of great instructors, types of classes, and the environment is always really positive and friendly. If you are interested in attending fun classes with wonderful instructors, I highly recommend this place!

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience has been incredible so far. I had never touched an aerial apparatus or pole before coming here and all of the intro classes have helped me become stronger and more confident in my body. If you are curious at ALL about pole/lyra/aerial yoga - do it. I have only ever encountered the most support, positive, and helpful humans and I am so excited to continue my aerial journey!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m so glad I found this studio! I was a little nervous if I would even learn well or be able to do any moves since I’m brand new to pole dancing but the instructors are so amazing, teach well, make it fun & make you feel comfortable! Everyone I’ve met from the teachers to the class mates have been extremely kind, such a great community! Every week I look forward to coming to class

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve always wanted to do pole dancing for fun and I ran across this 2 week offer and gave it a try! I started off with Candice level 1 pole class but was too advanced for me so I tried beginners pole with Ashley & heels fundamentals with the other Ashlee. It has been a great experience for me! It helped me express how sexy I am and get a good workout in helping with my upper & lower body strength, my body was sore the next day ! All the instructors taught me well and showed me a good time that I would like to continue on with. I would highly recommend going to Ascendance pole and aerial arts! (:

Source: Google

★ 5

Finally I found a sport that I like. I knew I would continue coming for Elisa’s Aerial Yoga classes after my first time. Now it’s been 5 classes and I’m having a lot fun while seeing the notable difference of my body. So glad I came here.

Source: Google

★ 5

The instructor is very knowledgeable and I learned a lot as a beginner! Plus it’s a lot of fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

I really appreciated the beginner series I took here. As a bigger bodied person I found the instructors helpful in encouraging me as well as modifying things when they could be modified. Excited to take more classes here!

Source: Google

★ 5

I didn’t know what to expect at all walking in. I’ve never tried pole before and was a little anxious. Candace was my instructor and shared freely about her experiences and really made me feel at ease. She was excellent in her instruction and explained in a way that was very easy to fix or tweek my technic. I accomplished more moves in the intro to pole class than I thought I would and found learning this new skill a gratifying escape from my everyday life. Can’t wait for the next level!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ascendance Pole is a wonderful place to learn pole dancing! I have had classes from 3 of the instructors and each one has been so kind, knowledgeable and helpful. I am taking the classes for fun and fitness, building strength and flexibility. Once you get over the fear factor and learn to trust the pole, it is so much fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have no pole experience at all and signed up for their six week beginner course. We learned how to walk, several spins, transitions, and some choreo. It was really approachable and I'm definitely going to try the L1 course. Ashley was our main instructor and she made things fun and gave each student attention.

Source: Google

★ 5

I LOVE THIS PLACE!! I have been wanting to do pole classes for a while now and I was super excited when I found Ascendance Pole. They offer a variety of classes and because I didn't know which class to start with, I signed up for the 2 week trial period. I tried numerous classes and honestly, loved them all. The instructors are super nice, talented, and patient. It is a very welcoming community and I always feel safe and comfortable. I highly recommend trying Ascendance. In addition to feeling sexy and letting loose, you get an AMAZING work out.

Source: Google

★ 5

For 2022, I wanted to try something new, and out of my comfort zone, so I decided to do pole dancing. I took the Intro to Pole Series with Ashley, and now I am taking the Level 1 pole dance with her. She is an amazing instructor, and I love her teaching style. We had the honor of Tara (Owner) and I believe Annalisa subbing in on one of the intro classes, and they are both great as well! It’s nice to see different teaching styles.

The classes are so much fun, and you get a workout in. Everyone is so supportive, and you make lots of new friends. If you have been thinking about doing pole dancing, DO IT. You won’t regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I take Lyra classes there as an intermediate. There is a bunch of private attention even in the group classes. The instructors are great and I learn something every time.

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★ 5

Ascendance is amazing! I love the welcoming community they've created. Yael, Laura and Tara run awesome classes, they are very knowledgeable and helpful. If you're not getting whatever move they're teaching, they're good at giving modifications or steering you to a different move.

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm so happy I found this studio!

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★ 5

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★ 5

The space is very clean, people are respectful, and classes are small. I think the 2-wk unlimited classes offer for new students is fantastic. It's a great way to try out a number of different offerings and test the waters. I took beginning silks for a few months in another state, and was missing the mental and physical benefits of the practice. Love that I found Ascendance, right here in downtown Renton, and looking forward to being more active in the community.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a pole beginner (both vertical and fly), I am so lucky to have found Ascendance! Not only are the staff/teachers welcoming to newcomers but they are also patient and understanding when it comes to teaching students new movements and techniques. It’s also one of the only places in the area to offer aerial pole. I’ve had a great experience so far and I’m looking forward to continuing my pole journey here!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ascendance is such a gem. My favorite hands down is fly pole, and you can’t find any classes for this anywhere else in the Seattle area.

I also love the opportunity to rent equipment or take classes virtually. It’s super convenient when I’m not in town but still want to practice.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love taking classes here! The environment is positive, accepting and upbuilding for whichever level you are at. After doing research on all the studios in the surrounding area I decided to come here and am so glad I did! I have never touched a pole before my classes with Ascendance and I am loving every second of it!

Source: Google

★ 5

The teachers here are great! They are super welcoming and make you feel very comfortable. You don't need any experience to take the classes here. They help you learn a lot!

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★ 5

Great location, wonderful space to have class. I love this place!!! I will complete my training here. Candice and Jojo are amazing! I completed Intro to Pole and Pole 1. The workout is intense, and being a previous dancer after 10 yrs of hiding, this is the Studio you need!!!! Levels 2-4 here I come! By the end of the year I should be back to my 20 yr old rock solid Amazon body 🤣

Source: Google

★ 5

I visited here for open pole practice. At first I was nervous to practice there but from the minute I walked in the people and the environment were so warm and friendly. The facility is well decorated and clean, I had plenty of space to dance and instruction on where to find everything I needed. Heading down again tomorrow ☺️

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Beautiful space with great instructors

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★ 5

I took my first class there and I did pole 4/5 with Yale. She’s an incredible, very patient instructor that gives you options/modifications which is amazing for a chicken like myself :)
The studio itself is very clean, friendly with helpful staff and when I’m this area again I’m coming back! Can’t stress enough how friendly and supportive all of the students were as well! Beautiful community of strong individuals which is important in our day and age.
Thank you again for building a welcoming and supportive environment!

Source: Google

★ 5

Lyra 1 with April was exactly what I needed on a Monday! Can't wait to take class again this week!

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★ 5

This studio is beautifully designed, clean,safe and positive. My instructor, JoJo made the space feel warm and fun while keeping it grounded. She's quite talented, and I feel confident I've found a teacher who will be able to help me grow my own talents.

I'm not 25, and I was afraid I was going to be the oldest person in the room, stuck in my head and feeling like an embarrassment. Those concerns slipped away rapidly. I was smiling waaaay more than I could have imagined. The warmup was sufficient to warm the muscles and get the joints ready for work, and not clunky or truly painful.

If you've had an awkward experience of showing up to a rickety building in a sketchy area and not feeling safe or comfortable there, rest assured: that is NOT what you're getting here.

Yes, right now there's a lot of roadwork being done and parking can be frustrating, but that isn't the fault of the studio, so they get all the stars. :)

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

The owner, Tara, is a seasoned dancer classically trained in ballet as well as having earned professional status as a pole artist. She is kind and the most professional person I have worked with in the pole community. Her conduct as a businesswoman demonstrates the highest level of ethics and competency.

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★ 5

Everyone at Ascendance is so nice and they have amazing options for classes, open gym, and studio rentals. Whether you take pole, Lyra, or aerial yoga you are going to feel safe, comfortable, and have a great time!

Source: Google

★ 5

a beautiful aerial studio, with a wonderful staff.

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★ 5

This studio is a dream. Super high ceilings, a beautiful backdrop for all your water bottle-propped videos, the poles spin very nicely, and they have the locking ring base which makes switching from static to spin really easy!

Actual studio aside, the instructors are incredible and I've made so much progress through classes thanks to them. They help troubleshoot and spot you, give tips & tricks to get into nemesis moves, and are always willing to demo/explain as needed!

Source: Google

★ 2

Eh it’s okay. I took the beginner class which I really don’t recommend. That class is meant for someone who has never been around, seen, or touched a pole in their life. We learned how to do two spins which I could have just gone on YouTube to learn. We also learned how to do a “sexy walk” which I found to be a total waste of time. I don’t think anybody there paid $30 to learn to walk. The pole instructor also could barley hold herself up so she was really only teaching the SUPER BASICS, literally like how to look at the pole. Anyways, the beginner class was not worth it. If you have some strength and actually want to learn something I would maybe take level 2 or 3 but other than that, not worth $30

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

So welcoming and such a range of classes, apparatuses, and levels- anyone can find something they will love!

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★ 5

Spotless studio and very friendly place! I would recommend to first timers or experienced students!

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★ 5

Variety of pole and aerial classes taught by experienced and skilled instructors. The community is also very supportive of all sizes/genders/background!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Used one of their promotions to try out as many classes as I could and I honestly loved them all. I had never done pole before and beginning pole was perfect for my newbie self (and gave me mad respect for everyone who does it regularly). The aerial conditioning class kicked my butt in the best possible way and I loved the aerial yoga and restorative aerial yoga class.
I don't think you can go wrong taking any of their classes and I look forward to going back!

Source: Google

★ 5

Highly recommend Ascendance for your pole and aerial journey. The studio is clean and beautiful with tall poles and mirrors that goes all the way to the floor! Such a great community and love all the ladies that instructs here.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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