Pride on the pole: Akila’s studio builds a home for every body
With £10 classes, neurodivergent-aware teaching, and pole pioneers leading the way, Akila is redefining who gets to take up space, and how fiercely.
This Pride Month, Akila Pole Studio is turning it all the way up- celebrating self-expression, strength, and queer joy in every spin.
Tucked in the heart of Brixton, Akila is London’s boldest pole dance studio, built for every body and every experience level… no cliques, no judgment, just movement that feels good.
With £10 beginner classes, international guest instructors, and a community that reflects the real world- queer, trans, non-binary, neurodiverse, BIPOC, SWers and more, Akila is where pride lives 365 days a year.
Whether you’re a total first-timer or chasing new tricks in heels, this is a space to move, connect, and belong. Add in two beautiful studios, classes seven days a week, and the kind of playlist that turns practice into power, and you’ve got something special.
IN NUMBERS
on average 30 classes per week
100s of students per week
over 5000 students since opening in 2021
currently 13 certified pole instructors
Akila Pole Studio’s Founder, Akila, lives with ADHD and has specially created a studio environment that supports and acknowledges mental health needs – this advocacy is a core part of our studio’s mission. Committed to inclusivity and diversity, it is a priority that all members are made to feel respected and supported. Akila Pole Studio also has policies in place to ensure everyone feels welcome and and their instructors reflect a wide range of identities, including neurodiverse, BIPOC, queer, and sex workers.
Unique classes Akila Pole Studio offers –
absolute beginners
old school pole
sensual freestyle
chairography
doubles pair work
Akila Pole Studio Founder, Akila Cristiano, says –
“At Akila Pole Studio I want to create a lasting impact that transcends beyond my time and build a community where inclusivity, empowerment, and self-expression is at the forefront. My goal is for Akila Pole Studios to be remembered not just as a place where people came to learn pole dancing, but as a sanctuary where they found strength, confidence, and a supportive community. I want the values of diversity, mental health awareness, and solidarity with sex workers to be integral parts of our legacy, inspiring future generations to continue fostering these principles in their own journeys.
We also aim to dispel the myth that pole dancing is a scary, cliquey activity. Instead, it’s an amazing way to learn about yourself, grow, and feel safe and supported. Our studio offers a welcoming environment where everyone no matter your experience or background can have an amazing time while learning and connecting with others.
What sets us apart is our community and the home-away-from-home feeling”