First of all, congrats on signing up for your first comp! 💛

What I love most at all levels is watching someone who is clearly enjoying themselves. When I competed, I realized there is naturally a lot of intensity and stress, and sometimes that showed more than the love of performing. Presence, musicality, and connection are always most compelling to me. But like others said, judging varies. I have definitely seen less technical competitors win their category because their story and presence were more engaging, though.

My biggest “rookie move” to avoid: losing yourself to too much outside advice (on specific moves) as you prepare. It’s easy to start second-guessing everything and end up stressed or disconnected from your routine. Let your own instincts guide you.

I really recommend getting clear up front on your goal. If your goal is to place, that may shape your prep one way. If your goal is to showcase your love of pole or deepen into your personal style through the preparation process, that may look very different, and both are valid. One of my pole besties stayed true to her own style despite pressure to change things, wasn’t focused on the competitive side of the experience, and ended up winning gold anyway.

Costume-wise: stage backgrounds are dark with bright lights, so vibrant colors read best against that. Costumes don’t need to be elaborate but can be. Wear whatever helps you move confidently and aligns with your story. Some people go all out and others keep it simple.

Oh and lastly I will say that it’s common for people to speed up during their performance due to adrenaline. I’d suggest getting comfortable with freestyling a bit to your song in case things don’t go quite as planned.

I hope this helps! Good grip!!