The competitor with the highest total score from both categories including deductions for mishaps wins the title of Ultimate Pole Champion.
Competitors in this category are given higher points for difficulty and execution of their unique tricks, performed on both spinning and static poles.
In this category, competitors are given higher points for the performance, theme interpretation originality and choreography of their pole dance routine.
To receive the maximum number of points, performances have to be well executed with careful attention paid to the synchronisation of dance moves to the music.
The new category received worldwide media attention, refuting the claim that pole dance is designed for the amusement of men.
A new category for disabled performers opened in 2010, inspired by sight impaired pole dancer Marie Dunot from France who had entered IPC in 2009.