I tried a beginning pole dancing class just for fun and let me tell you - they aren't kidding when they say it's a workout!  I've NEVER had an upper body workout that was so effective...I was incredibly sore, but then again I don't have much arm/shoulder strength to begin with.  This looks like a great way to develop those muscles along with some great core strength.  I hope to start doing it regularly after I get over some muscle soreness from a fall (on ice, not off the pole!).