If you are serious about pole dancing - whether it is for exercise or fun - then you will almost certainly want to buy a pole dancing pole to use at home.

This is a guide to help you choose the best dancing pole for yourself.

1. Fixed or removable
Poles need to be securely fixed so there is no lateral movement. This can be done in two possible ways.
Fixed poles are attached to a pair of flanges or brackets that are secured to the floor and ceiling by the appropriate screws or bolts. They are very secure but unless you never intend to move there is no real advantage.
Removable poles use pressure and tension to hold them in place, this means there is no need to drill holes for fixings and they can be placed anywhere in your house. Ensure that you have a joist directly above the pole, otherwise it will not be possible to achieve enough tension.

2. The pole diameter
The standard sizes are 45mmm and 50mm, although it is possible to get smaller ones. A standard competition pole is 50mm or to be precise, it is actually 50,8mm (2"). The larger smaller poles are easier on the hands whereas the 50m poles are easier on the feet and body. My personal preference is to use the 50mm pole, this is what most dance studios will have and it is certainly easier and quicker to adjust from the wider to the narrow pole than vice-versa. Steer clear of anything smaller than 45mm, these poles are only manufactured for economy - not for use.

3. The material
Poles generally come in chrome or brass. Many manufacturers play a bit fast and loose with the metallurgy describing them by colour eg. "titanium" "Gold" "Steel". The actual properties depend a lot on the individual alloys, but generally brass plated poles are have more grip making them easier to learn on but harder to spin on. The actual choice may just come down which colour you prefer and you will get used to the one you buy so don't worry to much about it.