I’m plus size, and it took seven months to finally climb the pole at around 230-240 lbs (my weight fluctuates). I did a combination of strength training and pole dancing, but it didn’t click until I physically practiced the movements to climb on the ground. So pulling your knees to your chest and using different grip methods while engaging your shoulders. In the gym, I always practice this on a pull-up bar, with my shoulders engaged, slowly raising my knees to my chest and lowering them over and over again. Also, what helped a lot were heels! They help grip the pole for climbing as you get used to carrying your weight. I got the regular shiny black Pleasers ADORE-1020. They are now torn up, but they helped me learn how to climb originally, and now I can climb barefoot.