[JadeAthena]

This might be my consolation prize as well.  I've got my 8" under splits!  I look more like I'm doing a lunge than a split! 

[JadeAthena]

I have been doing pole and Crossfit for the past year.  Though the workouts (WODs) are meant to be competitive, I've never hurt myself during them.  If I need to drop weight or modify the exercise, I do and no one cares.  The trainers at my gym will actually force people to drop or modify if they notice the form is off.  I think it's a great compliment to pole and probably the reason that I am able to climb the pole in pencil.  Also, the shoulder muscles I built up in Crossfit made shoulder mounting and dismounting pretty easy with no bruising or pain.  I recommend you test out the gym for a month to make sure you like their style.  And make sure that you add in some yoga so that you don't lose mobility and flexibility as you build muscle. 

As a funny aside, I also belong to a Crossfit forum and I've had similar discussions with Crossfit girls about whether they should try pole.  Obviously, I'm a huge fan of both!!