Kelechnekoff is a pole and dance studio based at the Sojourner Truth Centre on Sumner Road in Peckham, and reviewers rank it among the most inclusive pole spaces in south London. Students describe small class sizes, usually eight or fewer, and instructors who give real attention to each person in the room. The environment is repeatedly praised as kind, positive and welcoming. Some regulars, having tried studios across London and beyond, name this their favourite.
This is a specialist pole studio that also offers styles such as twerk, rather than a general ballroom or Latin school. Its reputation rests heavily on the warmth and professionalism of the teaching team, alongside a clean, well-run space. That inclusive atmosphere is what students mention time and again.
Within the wider spread of dance classes in London, Kelechnekoff concentrates on pole and related styles rather than the usual salsa or ballet routes. Beginner pole classes build strength and technique gradually, taught in small groups so nobody gets left behind. Those searching dance lessons London for a confidence-building, body-positive workout often find their home here. Class levels and formats vary, so check the timetable to find the right starting point.
Bring shorts, since bare skin helps you grip the pole, and skip moisturiser on the day. Arrive early to meet your instructor and get comfortable in the studio. Beginner classes assume no prior strength or experience.
The Sumner Road area sits in Peckham, south-east London, close to Peckham's shops and green spaces and served by overground rail and frequent buses.
Hands down the most inclusive and best pole dance studio in South London! I have been attending classes here since the end of 2021 and everyone from the instructors to the studio management are amazing and highly professional. I would also like to add that the studio is the cleanest pole studio I have ever been to and the facilities are constantly improving.
The instructors are very experienced, knowledgeable and can tailor any move to suit from beginners to advanced pole dancers. The studio offers a range of classes to suit different levels as well as different types of movement. I have had — Elena Barti
My favourite pole studio of the 6 I’ve been to in London/Berlin. This is down to the kindness and inclusivity of the instructors, the attention they give to each student (and the small class sizes – 8 or fewer people usually), and the positive environment they foster – it’s the studio where I’ve had the most engagement with other students with everyone cheering each other on. As some reviews have mentioned, there is a strict lateness policy. While it’s heartbreaking to miss a class due to arriving late (happened to me once), I fully support this policy as it means classes always run on time, e— Yoko Lohrer
Having taken both twerk and pole dancing classes at Kelechnekoff studio I can honestly say that these are the best dance classes I have taken in London. Though Kelechi herself does not take the beginners pole classes, both Sam and Jenny are fantastic teachers – patient, talented and great at bringing out the best in their students.
The twerk classes (which Kelechi does teach) are phenomenal! The choreography is challenging but authentic, clear and fun; Kelechi gives an insight into the cultural origins of the dances she teaches and she really takes the time to break down the stances and moves— S Hayden
I've been to lots of pole classes and this is by far the best!
Kelechi has a unique style of teaching and does not make you feel away if you do not get something straight away or feel uneasy about doing it. She really has taken time to perfect her craft and it is evident.
The pole classes are 90 minutes and worth the money, as they are jam packed with various sections from pole techniques to learning routines and workouts to build a stronger person for pole which for me has worked miracles for my body.— Leigh-Anne Jones
Salsa is achievable for most learners once the basic timing feels natural, which is the main early hurdle. Regular practice over a few weeks usually builds social confidence, though this studio specialises in pole.
Yes. Salsa classes elsewhere are designed for complete beginners, and most dancers start with none. Consistency matters more than natural talent.
It is, through classes built for adult beginners. Progress is gradual, but the benefits to strength, posture and coordination appear early.
No age is too late to enjoy ballet as a student. Adult beginner classes welcome every age and prioritise technique and enjoyment over a professional path.
Typical basics include the grapevine, step-touch, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and shuffle, combined into short repeating sequences. Pole, this studio's focus, works very differently.
Short routines with a simple repeating pattern are the easiest to pick up, and dancing in unison helps you follow along. For a strength-based challenge, pole offers a different route in.