Is aerial dance for everyone?
Absolutely! Our classes are designed for all levels, ages, and body types. Our Fabric 101 class is specifically designed for new students who may not have a lot of upper-body, core strength, and flexibility yet.
We recommend consulting with your doctor if you have the following physical limitations before participating in aerial dance: glaucoma, heart disease, pregnancy, very high or low blood pressure, vertigo, recent head injuries, recent surgery, cerebral sclerosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, severe arthritis, osteoporosis, hiatal hernia, and disc herniation.
What should I wear?
We recommend that you wear clothing that covers your armpits, backs of knees, and entire midriff. Sports Bras, long fitted stretchy pants, yoga pants, or footless tights are suggested. Shorts and loose clothing are not recommended and can ride up or get tangled. All jewelry must be removed, as it can snag and cause discomfort. Belts and shoes must be removed. Avoid lotions, oils, perfumes, and secure long hair away from the face. Please make sure to have good hygiene.
What should I expect?
All of our group classes are taught in either a one (1) hour or one hour and a half (1.5) hour format. Private and semi-private lessons are one (1) hour unless arranged otherwise. Our classes are taught in a progressive curriculum that lets you work at your own pace. They include a warm up, conditioning exercises, and stretching.
How may i start my child?
Schedule a private lesson! It is a focused hour of training.
What is aerial dance?
Aerial dance is a sub-genre of modern dance that incorporates suspended equipment or aerial apparatuses. Aerial fabric, also called Aerial Silk or Aerial Tissue, is just one of the many apparatuses used to explore space in three-dimensions. Creative choreography and fluid movements come to mind when describing aerial dance. Cirque du Soleil is a wonderful example of this.
Are aerial fabrics safe?
We train everybody in a comfortable and safe environment and make the classes small so that everyone receives the most attention possible. We teach new techniques low to the ground.
Once a student has a technique mastered and they have shown they have the strength and capability they are then allowed to take it higher off the ground. We practice over mats, and teach to the student's ability. Most poses on fabric can be done low to the ground and still look stunning.
All aerial arts involve acrobatic movement at various heights, which present potential risk. The most common injuries are overuse of the shoulder and back muscles, bruises, fabric burns, and dizziness. At Aerial Athlete, we do our best to provide a safe environment for our students by following a strict set of safety rules. All of our aerial equipment is extremely durable and will hold a minimum weight limit of 2,000 lbs. All equipment is regularly inspected to ensure it is clean and in good repair.
Our instructors have professionally trained at some of the top circus schools in the country, including the New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA). All of our instructors are CPR certified and hold other certifications in fitness and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about group class?
You must schedule an audition. This is free and is only about 15 minutes. These can be scheduled on Tuesday or Thursday at 4:30pm. The goal of the audition is to make sure the student can be safe and is right for the program. A great attitude is required. They must also know their left from their right and know how to work independently in a group class setting. When given clear directions, students are expected to take direction well and really want to train because it IS difficult.
Aerial Athlete © 2013 - 2021
Additional Questions? email us at info@aerialathlete.com
Other things to consider
- Listen to your body. Drink water and take breaks frequently, if your grips are tired or you feel dizzy rest for a few minutes.
- Don't talk while the instructor is talking. Talking blocks other students from learning and hearing details. Missing out on a few details could mean you miss any warnings which could lead to injury.
- Watch the technique first, then try it. It's better for you to watch the technique to its entirety before jumping the gun. This way the instructor can give you the most insight and will be there to help spot when it's your time to try.
- Remain Calm. If you are stuck in a position the best thing to do is calmly call the instructor over to help. There is a way out of everything. Screaming and grunting will use up extra energy and will not help you.
- Don't teach other students unless the instructor specifically asks you to do so.
- Don't film during class
- There is no audience during any group class - including parents. Not even for the last 5 minutes of class. Performances are for spectating, not classes.
- Clean yourself and your feet before stepping in the training area.
- Our training area is a no-phone zone. Set down electronics and train; enjoy the experience. Be in the present.
Aerial Dance Fitness