This is by far the sketchiest business I've ever dealt with. I had to fight for a refund for my classes with the help of the Better Business Bureau after I received a traumatic e-mail from a teacher. OPF told me, and this is a direct quote from their response through the BBB, that this e-mail: "should not be taken seriously and used as an excuse to ask for a refund." What an incredibly tone deaf, insulting, ludicrously idiotic response. I got my money back in the end but I sincerely regret ever having given them any in the first place. Please feel free to reach out to me directly for a full copy of the correspondence between myself and OPF so that you may see for yourself just how horribly they dealt with all of this. Or as another reviewer mentioned, look this up on Facebook and Instagram. There are plenty of people discussing their current attempts to sweep all of this under the rug.

Garbage Business. Owners are terrible, crossing the line into unethical. Please do some research to learn the full story. Luckily there are plenty of other great studios in Ottawa.

I recommend staying far away from this studio; the owners are horrible people

I took a "Men Can Pole Too" workshop here with Rebecca and had a great time. The facility is clean and accessible with two separate studios for a variety of classes. The instruction was very clear with a strong emphasis on safety and injury prevention. In one session we were able to learn several fundamental skills for an excellent introduction to the sport.

Do your research. You'll discover that the "rantings of one very angry person" are 150% justified. If you are not angry you need to check yourself.

I love my pole and aerial classes at PFA. They have such a positive impact on my life. The instructors are very talented and supportive. They help me improve my skills and gain more confidence. The owners are amazing and try their best to make the studio better in every way. They are easy to talk to and open to feedback and suggestions. I also make friends here. It's an inclusive friendly community where everyone can learn, be themselves, and have fun.

Tried to sign up for one of their course but was turned down because of my "disability". My disability has never stopped me before and to have these ableist jerks say no because of it is heartbreaking and upsetting. I'll try my luck with any of the other Fitness studios but screw this one.

A brand new studio in Ottawa, with talented owners and incredible teachers (counting in my opinion a few of the best in Ottawa)! A bit of research on Instagram about the skill cap of the owners and teachers will convince you of their skills! I've been dancing at this studio since its opening pretty much every day. Pole Fitness Academy is all about community, I've made a lot of friends there and I keep improving my skills to news summits every week. The studio offers classes and workshops specialized as much in the exotic side of the sport than on it's gymnastic side. The studio has a well defined curriculum addressed for anyone, with or without dance background, to fulfill their ambitions. Pole Fitness Academy is also very generous in my opinion. At least, it really suits my budget because the studio offers unlimited practices from 4h30-5h30 pretty much everyday even if register only for one session at the time! All the pricing were reviewed with the new owners. Now, I even have a membership that allows me to take two classes per week at a very fair price! Finally, the studio the most inclusive place I know (and I've been dancing in Ottawa for now more than 10 years in a very broad scale of institution). Everyone is accepted as they are. It's a judgement free zone. Since I know pretty much everyone that dances there, I'm still a bit puzzled by why a stranger could put a bad review to this studio, so I highly suggest anyone to take a class or a workshop to appreciate yourself the quality of Pole Fitness Academy products. If you come over and you see someone spinning around, just say Hi. My name Simon-Pierre :)

I signed my niece up for a class to try Lyra and Silks. I was blown away by the instructor and studio. Our instructor, Catherine, was incredibly supportive and took time to explain everything from basic safety around the equipment to the specific names of the moves and shapes she helped my niece create. Catherine even convinced me to give it a shot!! This was a 11/10 experience for me - my niece learned she can do really difficult things (better than her uncle!) and it was an opportunity for me to bond with her. You’ve definitely inspired my niece to expand beyond her current dance classes and sports activities - this place is amazing! Who knows, I might even be back for more Lyra!

If anyone deserves a glowing review, its this place! I've been with PFA for just over 2 years now and it has honestly changed my life! The owners Sarah and Catherine are incredible, they've done such an amazing job of providing support, classes and a safe environment throughout the pandemic. With the smaller class sizes, mask and cleaning protocols implemented since the start, I feel safer being in a class than I do in a grocery store! The location is perfect, especially if you want an after class drink or treat! There are a variety of classes, led by instructors that genuinely want to see you reach your goal and will do everything they can to help! I've definitely seen myself get stronger as well as immensely improving my self confidence! If anyone is looking for a safe, fun and inclusive place to learn something new, this is the place!

Best pole studio in Ottawa, hands down, no question. I've been doing pole fitness since 2011, spent several YEARS each at the other places in town, and none even come close to the TRUE inclusivity and community vibe of PFA. This is one of the only places that walks the walk, puts their money where their mouth is, and lives their values instead of merely saying the right thing for marketing or promo. If you want to meet with competitive, cliquey, exclusionary, and generally insensitive people, there are lots of places to go (unfortunately). This space is not one of them. All the staff at PFA, including the owner, are compassionate, empathetic, supportive, and caring. You won't find a better group. Give it a try, and have fun. You'll love it!

No words can describe how much this studio, Pole Fitness Academy, had made such an amazing impact on my life! I am now more confident, flexible, and of course stronger 💪🏼. I have made many new friends here! Everyone is warm and accepting, which made me so excited for each and every class 😊 I DEFINITELY recommend Pole Fitness Academy to whoever is looking for a new and exciting way to workout!

What I like about Ottawa Pole Fitness is that they have some very knowledgeable and experienced instructors, making for some useful and informative classes. The main difficulty I have with OPF is their pricing. They don't offer UNLIMITED memberships. Unlimited is important for a sport like pole because there are so many variations that you should have an opportunity to experience it all - at an affordable price. The other issue I had was the language at the studio was very negative towards sensual style of pole. This made me uncomfortable as I prefer the sexy-style over the sport element and I felt out of place.

I ABSOLUTELY love this place! Best in Ottawa

Walking in the studio changed my life! They have amazing instructors who get results, are inclusive and supportive, and the studio itself is beautiful, clean, and spacious. I could write on and on about my love for this place where I always call my home away from home :)

**AWAITING UPDATE <3 Left a Negative Aftertaste While the studio had some positives, like reasonable prices [and decent parking], there were certain aspects that left me with a less-than-ideal experience. The atmosphere in the studio was not very friendly or inviting, which might be suitable for individuals who prefer a more private practice and don’t wish to socialize. However, for someone like me who enjoys connecting with other pole dancers and fostering a sense of camaraderie, this aspect was disappointing. The poles I saw and used were all 45mm stainless steel, the mirrors were abundant, and the angles for videos bordered endless. However, I must emphasize that my session was unexpectedly cut short by 15 minutes when another dancer insisted the 4:30 free practice was over and a class was to begin at 5:20. This incident, combined with the lack of a welcoming vibe, overshadowed the benefit of reasonable pricing, making me think twice about returning. Furthermore, the location of the studio was a bit unconventional, which might be a concern for those using public transport. In summary, I would rate this dance studio a 4.8/10. While the fair pricing is a positive aspect, the unwelcoming vibe, communication issues, and negative encounter with other dancers left me with mixed feelings about this poling abroad experience. For those who prefer a more private and less social practice environment, this studio might still be worth considering. However, if you value a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, you might want to explore other options.

Not just a fitness studio: a full on community! From the first class onwards (did pole there for like three years before I moved away), everyone was super welcoming. They answered all my questions and genuinely cared about helping me reach my goals. It's also way easier to train when you're enjoying yourself! You learn new moves and then you learn that next one you want to master, which is just a bit crazier than the one before. But you go at your own pace and everyone supports you. It's great!

Sketchiest place ever.

AH I love this place! I had been wanting to try pole for YEARS but was always afraid of the "stigma" attached to it. One day I said to heck with it! and signed up for my very first Intro to Pole class. It has changed everything I thought I new about it, and I absolutely love it and would never go back! I am now proud to be doing pole fitness and this studio is the best place to get started in a community of accepting and judgement free instructors/polers! Once you start, you realize that it is a rewarding sport and can help anyone feel both sexy and strong at the same time! What are you waiting for? SIGN UP NOW!

This seems really interesting and I would love to have a fun way of exercising, I just had a question on age restriction, If I wanted to do pole dancing classes how old would I have to be? Im assuming 18 but Im hoping there is lower!

Instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and inclusive. Classes are very fun while also challenging, but tailored towards each skill level.

Great experience with wonderful instructors. I have been with PFA for 1.5 years and am so happy I joined. I have done different types of classes (pole, flow, chair) with different instructors both in person and online. The instructors have been supportive and positive. Covid protocols have reduced class sizes, implemented masks and other protocols that I feel safe being there.

I’ve been taking classes at PFA for two years, and the learning environment is great. The instructors are supportive and inclusive, and everyone I’ve met in class has been so friendly! Since the pandemic, they’ve taken extra precautions - smaller class sizes, masks - which made me feel safer going back as things reopen.

I tried one class with my husband at the Ottawa Pole dance studio, it was the Chair Couples Dance, and we had a blast. Mind you some of the moves were challenging but very fun and the instructor was very knowledgeable, patient and very pleasant with all of us. Even If we were not able to do one of the moves, like yours truly, she offered options for us and it worked out great. I was really impressed with the location, free parking and that they have 2 separate studios on different floor levels with amazing lighting and mirrors. What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon and would recommend this studio to anyone interested in learning Pole or other fun and sexy dances!! Great place, thanks guys!!

Love this place. The team is so friendly, the instructors are always encouraging and oh so patient! As we navigate through this pandemic the classes are smaller, masks are required and there is sanitizing going on between classes.

Absolutely blown away with Catherine and Sarah! I purchased a 1 year membership a few years ago before covid began and had to put the membership on hold due to severe mental illness. They honoured my membership and allowed me to come back when my illness was under control and my medications were stabilized. I think this was extraordinarily nice of them to do since it has been 2 + years that I’ve put the membership on hold.

Excellent pole studio, creating a super fun and safe environment to gain strength and confidence!

Very good experience. The teacher was awesome, competent and…graceful. Will definitely come back

Accommodating studio space, a variety of different teaching styles, central, and one of the best communities I've had the honour of participating in. So much love for this place, and so much appreciation for the strength and flexibility I have developed there.

Awesome location and space! A very welcoming and friendly atmosphere with awesome instructors.

Two studios with loads of space. Instructors have solid knowledge base and are able to translate that into movement progressions across many levels. I have seen my own abilities blossom, and it is because of my coaches at PFA. I feel cared for and safe. Conveniently located and good prices.

(Translated by Google) It's been over a year since I started taking pole fitness classes with this studio. Since I am modest and my English was limited at the time, I was very embarrassed but Catherine, my instructor, quickly gave me confidence. I always felt comfortable asking my questions in French since my instructors were all bilingual. After a few sessions I realized that pole fitness allows me to get out of my head for a while and train differently i.e. I can work on my flexibility, strength and fluidity. my movements simultaneously. Now I have the pleasure of taking classes with Richelle and trying more and more difficult poses. In just over a year, Ottawa Pole Fitness has allowed me to gain confidence, improve my flexibility and I still enjoy working out every week. (Original) Il y a déjà plus d’un an que j’ai commencé à suivre des cours de pole fitness avec ce studio. Étant donné que je suis pudique et que mon anglais était limité à cette époque, j’étais très gênée mais Catherine, mon instructrice, m’a mis en confiance rapidement. Je me suis toujours sentie à l’aise de poser mes questions en français puisque mes instructrices ont toutes été bilingues. Après quelques sessions, j’ai réalisé que le pole fitness me permettait de sortir de ma tête pendant un moment et de m’entraîner différemment, c’est-à-dire que je peux travailler sur ma flexibilité, ma force et la fluidité de mes mouvements simultanément. Maintenant, j’ai le plaisir de suivre des cours avec Richelle et d’essayer des postures de plus en plus difficile. En un peu plus d’une année, Ottawa Pole Fitness m’a permis de prendre confiance en moi, d’améliorer ma flexibilité et j’ai toujours autant de plaisir à me pratiquer à chaque semaine.

Ottawa Pole Fitness is without a doubt the best pole experience you can have. I remember when I was first trying to decide on a studio to begin my pole lessons that OPF immediately dew me in, with sizeable studio spaces, its diverse and highly qualified team of instructors that are always more than happy to help students refine their techniques, its affordable prices, and its inclusive and positive atmosphere. The opportunity for free practice times throughout the week certainly didn't hurt either. I'm now a year into my pole lessons and I cannot believe how much I have grown, both in my physical abilities, and as a person. I am both stronger and more flexible now that I had been when I first began poling, but most of all, I now feel much more confident and happy than before. Pole is a wonderful sport for anyone, of any age, gender, body type, or background, and I highly encourage everyone to try it out (you can even take a drop-in tryout classe before you register for a full class, how neat is that?!). It's an activity that will allow you to have fun, look great, and feel even better. And it's a fantastic ice-breaker at parties ;)

I started at Ottawa Pole Fitness a year ago and absolutely fell in love with everything about it. Not only is it a fun way to work out with building confidence and strength, but its the environment at OPF that makes it so special. All the instructors/owners/staff/students are very friendly, knowledgable and extremely supportive. It’s definitely the highlight of my week whenever I get to come to practice or to class. Thank you OPF for being so great! :)

Ever since my first pole class at OPF, I have not only entered top-notch classes, but also the most friendly and supportive environment I could ask for. The studios are spacious and clean, with pole towels frequently changed and crash mats always available. The staff members are easy-going yet professional. Classes are well organized with levels that accommodate students with or without a fitness background, and curriculums are well planned. I’ve taken classes with multiple instructors, and all of them paid strong attention to students’ individual development. The well organized and informative website itself also speaks loudly of the robust quality of this business. I’m impressed with every aspect of OPF and recommend it to anyone without hesitation. You WILL have a blast!

I started pole fitness in march of 2015 and was absolutely mesmerized by it. I decided to sign up by myself and made friends quickly with the other members and instructors. Highly recommend this place!

(Translated by Google) uh, how practical can you be if you're a man? I'm not dangerous, I'm 60 years old but I think that this art, it's an art for me, must build muscles perfectly the body (Original) heu, es ce qu'on peut pratique si on est un homme ? je suis pas dangereux, j'ai 60 piges mais je pense que cet art, c'est un art pour moi, doit muscler parfaitement le corps

Ottawa Pole Fitness is my home base for learning and training during the past 1.5 + years. The instructors are super great and always ready to share their knowledge and experience with everyone. I plan to take more advance classes to increase my skill and confidence with these talented instructors at OPF. During the following months I'll be joining students and instructors as friends at hot yoga classes and gym training nearby. It's a wonderful feeling to belong and train with so many like-minded fitness enthusiasts. I am very happy being part of Ottawa Pole Fitness.

I just LOVE this studio!!! ❤

Absolutely love this studio, the owners make everyone feel so welcome. having a group of such empowering women makes you want to go back everyday.

An excellent location.

(Translated by Google) Professional dance studio with a warm welcome offering a much more enjoyable workout than many gyms I have tried before! (Original) Studio de danse professionnel avec un acceuil chaleureux offrant un workout beaucoup plus agréable qu'aux nombreux gyms que j'ai essayés auparavant!

The Ottawa Pole Fitness have such great staff and class instruction. I really enjoyed taking classes here for my first pole dance experience and will for sure go back when I have more time!

I love this new gym! Owned by two amazing women, this place creates a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where you can learn moves that you never imagined you’d be able to pull off!! Absolutely love!! Instructors are amazing and the customer service is awesome! You can tell this gym cares about its members :)

I absolutely love training at OPF the instructors are amazingly talented, the students and all are so friendly ! Definitely recommend this studio to anyone that wants to try out pole fitness !

The Pole Fitness Academy team are a group of strong and talented women who are truly dedicated to sharing their passion for pole dance/fitness. Studio co-owner/instructor Catherine brings 13 years of pole experience and is an inspiration to her students and peers.

Great staff! Went sporadically throughout the years for aerial hoops, silks, pole, and most recently my bachelorette! We had Sarah for the party and she was such a sweetheart. Very no-stress class and great guidance not just on routine and moves but on group photos as well. I've come with friends, and I've also attended classes alone where I didn't know anyone. If you're worried about these kinds of things please don't let that deter you! Everyone (teachers and students) is super friendly and helpful.

Great place since the change of ownership. Cool things are happening here :) I would highly recommend.

I have nothing but good things to say about Pole Fitness Academy! The studio is owned by two amazing women, Sarah and Catherine, and all staff and instructors are knowledgeable, kind, and want to see students excel and reach their goals. I have taken a variety of classes, both in person and online, and have seen myself get stronger and increase athletic abilities, while also gaining confidence and feeling empowered. I also really appreciate that the studio has gone above and beyond to ensure classes continue safely through Covid. In addition to smaller class sizes and increased cleaning, masks are required at all times in the studio, which adds an extra layer of safety. I definitely recommend PFA to anyone looking for a challenging new way to exercise in a fun, welcoming community!

This is such an amazing studio. All of the instructors are so friendly, knowledgeable and encouraging. Everyone is so welcoming and it is such and encouraging and safe space. I have taken their pole, hoop and choreo classes and I cannot recommend this studio enough.

I had a great time here! I travel for work, and Sarah was able to accommodate a private lesson while I was in town and it was great! The studio was east to find, communication was great, and the lesson itself was amazing!!!! Very welcoming, encouraging, and supportive environment. Thank you! Shall be back when I am next in Ottawa!