Judging criteria for Pole and Floor Play- 2026
These judging criteria apply to all Pole and Floor Play divisions unless otherwise stated. All criteria are assessed independently and scored according to the defined point scales below.
Only whole points may be awarded (no half points e.g 0.5).
Flow 1-10p
Flow refers to the competitor’s ability to create a seamless, effortless, and continuous performance on the pole and/or on the floor. Movements should transition smoothly and seamlessly into one another, creating a clear sense of continuity without unnecessary stops, breaks, or visible preparation.
The routine is assessed on how well it links together and whether flow is maintained throughout the performance.
Scoring scale: Flow
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = None: 0% of the routine.
No visible flow. Movements are disconnected, abrupt, or fragmented. Transitions are missing or are disruptive.
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1-2 = Poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Very limited flow. Transitions are often awkward or forced, with frequent pauses or breaks that interrupt continuity.
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3-4 = Slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some moments of flow are present, but overall continuity is inconsistent. Transitions work occasionally but are not sustained.
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5-6 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear and intentional flow through many parts of the performance. Most transitions are smooth, though some interruptions or uneven sections remain.
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7-8 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong and consistent flow throughout most of the routine. Movements transition smoothly with only minor breaks or loss of continuity.
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9-10 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional flow sustained nearly throughout the entire performance. Transitions are seamless, effortless, and fluid, creating a continuous and polished routine.
Artistry 1-10p
This criterion evaluates the ability to influence and interact with the audience through facial expressions, gestures, body language, energy, confidence and stage presence.
The competitor is assessed on their ability to play and flirt with the audience, showing their most charismatic side. Stage presence and emotional impact with the viewer are central to this criterion.
Further, the costume, makeup and hairstyle should match the routine’s theme and be well fitted.
Mimicking to the music does NOT count as artistry or any other judging criterion.
In other words, artistry reflects the correspondence between the stage image and the idea and mood of the routine.
Confidence reflects the competitor’s visible belief in themselves and in their routine, contributing to stage presence.
Scoring scale: Artistry
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = None: 0% of the routine.
No visible attempt at artistic expression. The performer shows no stage presence, emotional connection. Confidence is absent.
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1-2 = Poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Minimal artistic effort. Expressions and gestures are limited or inconsistent, with little emotional impact. The stage image poorly reflects the concept of the routine. Confidence is low or inconsistent.
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3-4 = Slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some artistic moments are present, but engagement is inconsistent. Gestures, facial expressions, or energy only partially support the routine. The stage image partly reflects the theme. Confidence fluctuates, affecting overall presence.
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5-6 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear and intentional artistic expression. Facial expressions, gestures, and body language mostly match the routine and engage the audience. The stage image is appropriate and generally complements the theme. Confidence is visible, though minor lapses may occur.
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7-8 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong and confident artistic expression throughout most of the routine. Gestures, energy, and interaction consistently support emotional impact. The stage image is well-suited and enhances the theme. Confidence is sustained, contributing to strong audience engagement.
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9-10 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional artistic expression sustained nearly throughout the routine. Every gesture, facial expression, and movement is purposeful, engaging, and enhances the routine’s mood and theme. The stage image fully supports the concept. The competitor exudes unwavering confidence, charisma, and emotional impact, leaving a lasting impression.
Technique 1-10p
This criterion evaluates the level of dance technique, including posture and body lines, flexibility, amplitude, body and arm positioning, musicality, isolation technique, speed control and control of pole elements.
Tricks should be well-chosen and well executed with clean entry and exit, demonstrating precision, control, and effortlessness.
For Floor-Play: This also includes mastery of the stunt elements, both at floor level and at pole height (for example racks, flips, cartwheels).
In heels technique, the heels are treated as an extension of the body; like they were grown onto your feet. Use them as an expressive tool: points, inside/outside platform, stiletto and/or slope are used intentionally and with control.
Pole Usage Requirement (Pole divisions only)
The routine does not need to be structured around the use of both poles. Artistic freedom allows the competitor to choose whether to use both poles or only a spinning or a static pole.
However, the pole routine must be constructed so that the pole is used for a minimum of 70% of the performance. If the pole is used less than this, it will affect the overall evaluation of the routine, particularly in the areas of technique and choreography.
Use of the pole includes assistance during the execution of acrobatic elements both on and off the pole.
Scoring scale: Technique
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = None: 0% of the routine.
No visible technical skill or mastery. Movements and tricks are executed poorly or inconsistently.
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1-2 = Poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Minimal technical skill is demonstrated; many errors or unrefined movements.
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3-4 = Slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some technical moments are present, but execution is inconsistent or incomplete.
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5-6 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear technical skill is shown; most movements and tricks are executed correctly and with control.
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7-8 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong technical skill throughout most of the performance; movements and tricks are precise, controlled, and fluid.
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9-10 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional technical mastery, executed seamlessly and confidently nearly throughout the entire routine.
Choreography/Originality - the overall performance and presentation 1-10p
This criterion reflects the overall performance and presentation, combining all previous criteria into the complexity of the choreography.
Choreography evaluates structure, coherence, and composition of the routine, including a clear through-line, balanced variation between calm and dynamic sections, and appropriate use of repetition.
Originality is reflected in the idea, complexity of choreographic vocabulary, musicality, movement choices, and use of space. The routine is assessed on whether it feels innovative, out of the box, and memorable to the audience.
Pole and/or floor tricks should be incorporated in a way that supports and develops the concept.
Movement choices should highlight musical accents or intentionally contrast cadence, crescendos, and decrescendos.
Balance refers to the ability to create a routine with equal elements of flow, artistry, technique, and scandalous effect.
Scoring scale: Choreography
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = None: 0% of the routine.
No identifiable choreographic structure or artistic direction. Movements appear random or disconnected, with no clear through-line, composition, or intentional use of space. Originality, musicality, and integration of tricks are absent or ineffective.
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1-2 = Poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Choreography shows minimal concept or structure. Few or no innovative ideas are present. Pole and/or Floor tricks are poorly integrated and movement choices rarely match or highlight the music. Balance is lacking, making the routine inconsistent.
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3-4 = Slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some choreographic ideas are present, but the routine lacks a consistent through-line or flow. Originality is limited, and pole tricks or movement choices occasionally fail to support musical accents or dynamics. The routine is somewhat challenging for the performer, causing occasional interruptions or loss of control.
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5-6 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear choreographic intent with recognizable structure. Original ideas are present, with some complexity in movement, musicality, or use of space. Pole and/or Floor tricks are incorporated purposefully to support the concept. The routine is generally balanced and manageable for the performer, though some sections may lack full cohesion or continuity.
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7-8 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong and well-constructed choreography. Originality and complexity are evident throughout most of the routine, with movement choices enhancing musical accents and dynamics. Pole and/or Floor tricks are well-integrated and support the concept. Balance between flow, artistry, technique, and stage presence is evident, allowing confident and mostly uninterrupted execution.
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9-10 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional choreography sustained nearly throughout the entire routine. Highly original, complex, and memorable, with thoughtful use of musicality, movement, and space. Pole and/or Floor tricks enhance and develop the concept seamlessly. The routine is perfectly balanced, manageable, and executed with confidence, continuity, and strong artistic impact.
Scandal effect, be SCANDALOUS! 0-5p
This criterion rewards tasteful boldness, daring originality, and confident stage presence. It celebrates artistic risk-taking that surprises, excites, and elevates the performance—through concept, style, humor, seduction, or theatrical flair—while remaining within competition rules and safety guidelines.
The focus is not on shock value alone, but on how well the bold choices are executed, controlled, and integrated into the overall performance. Risk-taking should feel intentional, authentic, and enhance the competitor’s concept rather than distract from it.
Think outside the box. Add your personal flavor and spice. Surprise us.
Scoring scale: Scandal effect
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = none: 0% of the routine.
No visible attempt at bold or daring artistic expression. The performance remains neutral and does not engage the audience beyond basic execution. -
1 = poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Minimal or unclear artistic intent. Boldness or attitude appears forced, inconsistent, or disconnected from the choreography.
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2 = slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some moments of daring expression are present, but they are limited, hesitant, or unevenly integrated into the routine.
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3 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear and intentional use of bold artistic expression. The performance engages the audience and supports the choreography, though not consistently throughout.
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4 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong, confident, and well-integrated artistic boldness. The expression enhances musicality, style, and stage presence in most parts of the routine.
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5 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional and confident artistic expression sustained almost throughout the entire routine. Bold choices are fully integrated, purposeful, and significantly elevate the overall performance impact.
Synchronization/Group dynamics (for Duo and Group category):
Applies only to Duo and Group divisions; does not affect Solo scoring.
This criterion evaluates how well dancers move as a cohesive unit, including synchronization, interaction, and group dynamics.
Scores reflect the complexity of duet or group tricks, alignment of movements, and overall impression of dancers performing as one.
Scoring scale: Synchronization / Group dynamics
(0-5 points, only for duo/group)
Only whole points are given (no half points e.g 0.5)
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0 = None: 0% of the routine.
No or very low synchronization or group cohesion. Dancers move individually with no awareness of each other. Duet/group tricks are absent or executed chaotically.
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1 = Poor: ≤20% of the routine.
Limited synchronization. Interaction is minimal or inconsistent. Group tricks are poorly executed and movements rarely align or intentionally contrast.
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2 = Slight: ≤40% of the routine.
Some attempts at synchronization or group interaction are visible, but timing, spacing, or coordination are inconsistent. Tricks occasionally fail to support group unity.
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3 = Good: ≤60% of the routine.
Clear synchronization and interaction in many parts of the routine. Group tricks or partnered elements are executed competently. Movements generally align or intentionally contrast.
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4 = Very Good: ≤80% of the routine.
Strong synchronization and group cohesion in most of the routine. Tricks are well-executed and enhance the performance concept. Dancers move cohesively, showing awareness and interaction. Intentional contrasts and mirrored movements are precise. -
5 = Almost throughout the entire routine: ≤100% of the routine.
Exceptional synchronization and cohesion sustained almost throughout the routine. Complex tricks, mirrored movements, and intentional contrasts are executed flawlessly. Dancers move as a unified entity, creating a seamless and impressive visual effect.
Tie-Breaking Rules
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First: Compare Choreography scores. The performer with the highest Choreography score gets the higher placement.
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If tied: Compare Artistry scores. The performer with the highest Artistry score gets the higher placement.
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If still tied: Compare Scandal Effect scores. The performer with the highest Scandal Effect score gets the higher placement.
Judging Guidelines for Competitors
Pole & Floor Play Divisions
These guidelines are designed to help you understand what the judges are looking for and how your performance will be evaluated. All criteria are assessed independently, and only whole points are awarded.
Your goal is not to “tick boxes,” but to create a cohesive, confident, and memorable performance where technique, artistry, and concept work together.
1. Flow (1–10 points)
Flow is about continuity and effortlessness.
Judges are looking for how smoothly your movements connect on the pole and/or floor. A strong sense of flow means your routine feels seamless and uninterrupted, without visible preparation, hesitation, or unnecessary pauses.
What we are looking for:
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Smooth and natural transitions between movements and tricks
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A clear sense of continuity from start to finish
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Movement that feels intentional rather than rushed or fragmented
Exceptional flow makes the routine feel fluid, polished, and immersive.
2. Artistry (1–10 points)
Artistry is how you connect with the audience.
This criterion evaluates your ability to communicate emotion, character, and presence through facial expressions, body language, energy, confidence, and interaction with the audience.
What we are looking for:
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Strong stage presence and emotional engagement
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Clear intention behind gestures, expressions, and movement quality
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Confidence and charisma that support the routine’s mood and idea
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Costume, makeup, and hairstyle that fit the theme and enhance the overall image
Artistry is not miming lyrics or music. It is the alignment between your stage image, movement, and the story or feeling you are presenting.
3. Technique (1–10 points)
Technique reflects control, precision, and mastery.
Judges assess your technical level across dance technique and pole/floor elements, including posture, body lines, flexibility, control, musicality, and execution of tricks.
What we are looking for:
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Clean entries and exits in tricks both on/off the pole and on the floor
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Controlled, precise, and confident execution
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Appropriate trick selection that suits your level and concept
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Musicality, speed control, and clarity of movement
For Floor Play:
Mastery of floor-based stunts and transitions (e.g. flips, cartwheels, racks).
For Heels Technique:
Heels should function as an extension of the body. Platforms, points, slopes, and edges are used intentionally, with control and expression—not as an afterthought.
Pole Usage Requirement (Pole divisions only)
The routine does not need to be structured around the use of both poles. Artistic freedom allows the competitor to choose whether to use both poles or only a spinning or a static pole.
However, the pole routine must be constructed so that the pole is used for a minimum of 70% of the performance. If the pole is used less than this, it will affect the overall evaluation of the routine, particularly in the areas of technique and choreography.
Use of the pole includes assistance during the execution of acrobatic elements both on and off the pole.
4. Choreography & Originality
Overall Performance and Presentation (1–10 points)
This criterion evaluates the big picture: how everything comes together.
Judges assess the structure, composition, originality, and balance of your routine, as well as how effectively pole and/or floor work supports the concept.
What we are looking for:
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A clear through-line or concept
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Balanced variation between calm and dynamic sections
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Thoughtful use of repetition, contrast, and space
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Original movement choices and choreographic vocabulary
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Musicality that highlights or intentionally contrasts accents, crescendos, and rhythm
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A routine that feels innovative, memorable, and manageable for the performer
Strong choreography balances flow, artistry, technique, and impact into one cohesive performance.
5. Scandal Effect – Be Scandalous! (0–5 points)
This criterion rewards boldness, confidence, and artistic risk-taking.
Scandal Effect celebrates performers who dare to surprise, provoke, and excite the audience through creative choices—while staying within competition rules and safety guidelines.
What we are looking for:
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Tasteful boldness and confident expression
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Original or unexpected artistic choices
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A strong sense of personality, attitude, or theatrical flair
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Bold elements that feel intentional and fully integrated
Think outside the box. Add your personal flavor and spice.
Surprise us.
The focus is not on shock value alone, but on how well the bold choices are executed, controlled, and integrated into the overall performance.
6. Synchronization & Group Dynamics
(Duo and Group categories only – 0–5 points)
This criterion applies only to Duo and Group divisions and does not affect Solo scoring.
Judges evaluate how well dancers perform as a cohesive unit.
What we are looking for:
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Clear synchronization and timing
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Awareness and interaction between performers
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Well-executed duo or group tricks
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Intentional mirrored movements or contrasts
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A unified overall impression
The strongest performances move as one—while still allowing individual presence to shine.
Judging FAQ for Competitors
Pole & Floor Play Divisions
This FAQ is designed to clarify how your performance is assessed and to help you prepare with confidence. It explains how judges think without turning the process into rigid rules.
General Questions
Q: How is my routine judged overall?
A: Your performance is evaluated across several independent criteria: Flow, Artistry, Technique, Choreography/Originality, and (where applicable) Scandal Effect and Synchronization/Group Dynamics. Each criterion focuses on a different aspect of your performance, but judges are ultimately looking for a cohesive, confident, and well-balanced routine.
Q: Do I need to score high in every category to place well?
A: Strong overall balance is important, especially in Choreography/Overall Performance (see 4. Choreography & Originality). However, routines often stand out because they excel clearly in certain areas while remaining solid in others. The most successful performances integrate all elements into one clear concept.
Q: Are half points used?
A: No. Judges award only whole points in all categories.
Flow
Q: What does “flow” actually mean?
A: Flow refers to how seamlessly your movements connect. Judges look for continuity, smooth transitions, and a routine that feels effortless rather than segmented.
Q: Does slowing down or pausing lower my Flow score?
A: Not necessarily. Intentional stillness or pauses can support flow if they are clearly choreographed and purposeful. Flow is lost when pauses appear unplanned, hesitant, or break the continuity of the routine.
Artistry
Q: What counts as artistry?
A: Artistry is your ability to engage the audience through expression, presence, confidence, and emotional communication. It is about how you perform, not just what you do.
Q: Does facial expression really matter?
A: Yes. Facial expressions, gestures, body language, and energy all contribute to how convincingly you communicate your concept and connect with the audience.
Q: Does lip syncing or mimicking the music count as Artistry and affect my score?
A: Lip syncing or mimicking the music does not count as Artistry and will not be scored. Lip syncing is permitted and will not result in a direct deduction; however, it may distract from your performance and negatively affect your overall impression.
Q: How important are costume and styling?
A: Costume, makeup, and hairstyle should support the routine’s theme and concept. They are part of your stage image and contribute to artistic coherence, but they cannot replace performance quality.
Technique
Q: What kind of technique is being judged?
A: Judges assess overall dance technique and pole/floor technique, including posture, body lines, flexibility, control, musicality, and execution of tricks.
Q: Is difficulty more important than cleanliness?
A: No. Well-executed, controlled, and clean movements score higher than difficult tricks performed inconsistently. Trick selection should match your level and concept.
Q: How are heels evaluated?
A: In heels technique, heels are considered an extension of the body. Judges look for intentional use, control, balance, and expressive integration—not just wearing heels.
Pole Usage Requirement (Pole divisions only)
The routine does not need to be structured around the use of both poles. Artistic freedom allows the competitor to choose whether to use both poles or only a spinning or a static pole.
However, the pole routine must be constructed so that the pole is used for a minimum of 70% of the performance. If the pole is used less than this, it will affect the overall evaluation of the routine, particularly in the areas of technique and choreography.
Use of the pole includes assistance during the execution of acrobatic elements both on and off the pole.
Choreography & Originality
Q: What does “choreography” include?
A: Choreography includes structure, composition, musicality, use of space, and how movements and tricks support the concept. Judges look for a clear through-line and thoughtful construction.
Q: What is meant by originality?
A: Originality can appear in concept, movement choices, musical interpretation, transitions, or how you use pole and floor elements. It does not require inventing new tricks, but rather presenting ideas in a fresh, personal, or memorable way.
Q: Can a routine be too complex?
A: Yes. If a routine is so complex that it causes visible struggle, interruptions, or loss of control, it may negatively affect multiple criteria. Judges value routines that are ambitious and manageable
Scandal Effect
Q: What is the Scandal Effect really about?
A: Scandal Effect rewards bold artistic choices, confident attitude, and daring expression that surprise or excite the audience—without violating rules or safety guidelines.
Q: Does “scandalous” mean inappropriate?
A: No. It does not refer to unsafe, offensive, or rule-breaking content. It refers to artistic boldness, personality, theatricality, humor, seduction, or strong attitude when used intentionally. The focus is not on shock value alone.
Q: Do I need Scandal Effect to win?
A: Not necessarily, but a strong Scandal Effect score can elevate an already solid routine and make it more memorable—especially in close competitions.
Duo & Group Categories
Q: What is judged in Synchronization and Group Dynamics?
A: Judges assess how well dancers move as a cohesive unit: timing, interaction, spacing, awareness, and execution of duo or group tricks.
Q: Do dancers have to be identical?
A: No. Intentional contrasts, roles, or differences can score very well if they are clearly choreographed and controlled. The key is cohesion and purpose.