It’s common to have a lot of questions when you are starting something new. Here are five questions beginners have asked us as they are starting aerial training at Frequent Flyers.
1) Do I need to be strong or flexible when starting aerial training?
No! Many beginners worry that they lack the necessary strength or flexibility to start aerial training, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. No matter where you’re at, your strength and flexibility will develop by practicing aerial dance.
2) What should I wear for my first aerial class?
Aerial students should wear clothing that allows the body to move freely. Backs of knees, waists and armpits should be covered to avoid burns from the apparatus. A leotard or unitard under your T-shirt, or a shirt long enough to stay tucked in are great! Clothing that has very hard seams and/or zippers should be avoided to prevent bruising and getting caught on the apparatus. For most classes, students will be asked to learn in bare feet to avoid slipping.
3) What should I expect during my first aerial class?
Aerial classes at Frequent Flyers start with a warm-up on the ground to prepare for movement on the apparatus. This includes light cardio, strengthening exercises, and stretching. Warm-up continues on the apparatus, then students learn skills specific to their level. In a beginner class, this might include how to properly grip the apparatus, how to get on the apparatus, and a simple skills low to the ground. Class ends with a cool down and smiles.
4) What is the difference between aerial fabric, lyra, and other apparatuses, and which one should I start with?
Fabric (Silks) and Sling (Hammock) are made of a soft fabric. Fabric has two long tails, while Sling is hung in a loop. Lyra (Hoop) is a metal ring hung vertically. Low Flying (Dance) Trapeze is two ropes attached to a bar hung from one point, while Static Trapeze is hung from two points. Rope (Corde Lisse) is a single covered rope. Straps are two straps with loops for wrists or feet.
Frequent Flyers offers beginner classes in Fabric, Sling, Lyra, Low Flying Trapeze, Static Trapeze, and Rope. When starting aerial training, Fabric, Sling, Lyra, and Low Flying Trapeze offer a more gentle introduction. If you’re having a hard time deciding, check out our Aerial Mixed Apparatus Foundations class that introduces a new apparatus each week!
5) How do I overcome the fear of heights or falling?
When starting aerial dance, beginners learn skills very low to the ground while they are building strength and understanding of the apparatus. An instructor will never force you to attempt a skill that feels above your level. When fear does come into play, breathing, practicing staying calm, noticing what you can see, hear, and feel, and listening to your instructor’s guidance all help to keep fear from overwhelming. If a student is afraid of a skill, an instructor might break the skill down further or the student may choose to move on to the next skill.
