Iko Movement

- 316 SW 11th Ave #300, Portland, OR 97205

Iko Movement is not your average dance studio. Located in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon, it is a uniquely dedicated space for pole dance and movement arts, built on a foundation of empowerment, safety, and authenticity. This is a business owned and operated by a Woman of Color (WOC), queer individuals, and sex workers, and it is unapologetically committed to celebrating the true roots of pole dancing. Iko Movement offers a transformative experience, where physical strength and emotional well-being are prioritized in equal measure. The studio's philosophy is to provide a space for people to explore, learn, and create through the power of movement without judgment, and to connect with their bodies in a way that is both powerful and genuine.

The atmosphere at Iko Movement is a significant part of its appeal. As one reviewer describes in great detail, "Iko is the best studio in town because it’s the prettiest with the best lighting, prioritizes the safety of students, fosters an environment of acceptance and empowerment, embraces and celebrates pole dancings roots as sex work without co-opting it." This feedback highlights the studio's success in creating a beautiful and safe space for its students. Instructors, like Lillian, Anna, and Del, are not only skilled dancers but also compassionate and knowledgeable coaches who truly care about their students' physical and emotional well-being. They are dedicated to breaking down complex moves and providing consistent, safe education for all levels. This commitment to nurturing the in-house environment is a core value, even if it means they can't always answer the phone immediately, as a reviewer noted, because they are prioritizing the safety of a person hanging upside down.

Iko Movement is conveniently located in downtown Portland at 316 SW 11th Ave #300, Portland, OR 97205. Situated on the third floor, it offers a secluded space for training and creativity, away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. For those driving, street parking is available, though it is metered, so students are advised to use the Parking Kitty app for convenience. Its central location makes it accessible via various forms of public transportation, allowing students from all over the Portland metro area to attend classes easily.

The studio's interior is another highlight, with two open studios and a third room dedicated to flexibility and contortion classes. The space is equipped with 23 stainless steel poles and includes three bathrooms that can double as dressing rooms. Students have access to a variety of on-site equipment, including yoga mats, therabands, yoga blocks, crash pads, towels, and foam rollers, ensuring they have everything they need for a safe and effective workout. The studio’s commitment to safety is evident in its class structure, with a focus on comprehensive warm-ups and cool-downs that bookend the core training, ensuring students are properly prepared and recover from their intense workouts.

Iko Movement provides a diverse range of services designed to meet the needs of every individual, whether they are a complete beginner or a seasoned professional.

• Pole Dance Classes: The studio specializes in pole dance, offering a variety of classes for beginners to advanced students. The curriculum is structured to be progressive, with weekly series and courses that build on each other, ensuring a consistent and effective learning experience.

• Specialized Movement Arts: In addition to pole, Iko Movement offers classes in a range of other movement forms. This includes flexibility and contortion, floorwork, choreography, freestyle, and handstands. This variety allows students to become well-rounded movers and expand their skill set.

• Private Lessons and Training: For a more personalized experience, Iko Movement offers private lessons and personalized coaching. These sessions are perfect for individuals who want a custom training plan that caters to their specific movement goals and lifestyle.

• Pole Rentals: The studio provides "Pole Rentals" by the hour, allowing students to practice and train on their own time, outside of scheduled classes. This is a valuable resource for dedicated students who want to perfect their moves.

• Private Parties: Iko Movement is a popular choice for special events, offering private parties for groups. These are a unique and fun option for birthdays, bachelorette parties, or other celebrations, providing a memorable and empowering experience for all participants.

The key features and highlights of Iko Movement are what truly set it apart from other fitness and dance studios in the Oregon region.

• Inclusivity and Empowerment: Iko Movement is a safe and empowering space for all bodies and backgrounds. The studio proudly supports its community, offering free classes to Black sex workers and strippers in Portland, and discounted classes to all in the sex industry. This commitment to celebrating the origins of the art form and supporting the people who created it is a core value.

• Experienced and Compassionate Staff: The coaches, including Lillian, Anna, and Del, are highly knowledgeable and empathetic. They are not only skilled dancers but also effective teachers who prioritize student safety and well-being above all else. Their collective experience and consistent curriculum ensure a high-quality education.

• Safety-First Approach: The class structure, which includes dedicated time for warm-ups and cool-downs, reflects a strong emphasis on safety and injury prevention. This thoughtful approach ensures that students can build strength and skills in a controlled and low-risk environment.

• Authentic and Unique Vibe: In a world of "millennial gray dance studios," Iko Movement stands out for its unique and authentic atmosphere. The studio is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a genuine hub for a diverse and accepting community.

For all inquiries, class registration, or to book a private party, you can contact Iko Movement.

Address: 316 SW 11th Ave #300, Portland, OR 97205, USA

Phone: (503) 231-2542

What is worth choosing Iko Movement is its unwavering commitment to community, safety, and empowerment. It’s a place where you can not only get a physically intense workout and gain incredible strength, but also find a supportive family that celebrates who you are. The studio's ownership, its dedication to marginalized communities, and its focus on the authentic roots of pole dance make it a truly special and invaluable asset to the Portland arts and fitness scene. For anyone in Oregon seeking a transformative fitness journey in an environment that is genuinely inclusive and empowering, Iko Movement is the only option.

Iko Movement

316 SW 11th Ave #300, Portland, OR 97205, USA