Aerial Dance & Fitness has quickly become one of the fastest-growing, most exciting exercise trends of the decade. Learn why, and how you can do it!
Over the past decade, the world of dance and fitness has seen some phenomenal growth and evolution. Trends in exercise, diets and weight loss techniques are part of the multi-million dollar fitness industry. There is constantly something ‘new’ and ‘exciting’ being promoted by famous faces of Hollywood and icons in the world of sports. Usually, the industry will see remarkable followings for whatever the latest craze is, until the next one comes along.
This pattern of jumping on and off the bandwagon is typical with trends. That’s why they are trends. However, once in awhile something comes along that is more than just a passing phase, and actually begins to change the way we look at and define the world around us. Aerial dance and exercise seems to have found a permanent place in the fitness industry-creating a new revolution for participants of all ages, genders and levels. Everyone can enjoy this exhilarating approach to wellness, that produces real results and appeals to your inner child.
What is ‘Aerial dance’ and ‘Aerial fitness’?
The word ‘aerial’ simply means ‘of, or in the air, like flying.’ Sounds fun already, doesn’t it? When most people think of ‘aerial arts’ they think Cirque du Soleil, which is right on track with the imagery. Aerial dance has actually been around for hundreds of years. An ‘aerialist’ is someone who performs artistic or acrobatic moves and poses on a device that allows them to appear weightless in the air -allowing the onlooker to be awed by their graceful lightness and amazing poise.
Aerialists have always been a major icon in circus acts, and more recently in artistic creations and theatrical style productions like Cirque du Soleil. As the popularity of such shows have grown, more and more people have become interested in trying their luck on apparatus like the trapeze, aerial silks, lyra (hoop), rope and even the pole-also considered an ‘aerial’ device when defined by the person on it. The one thing all these apparatus have in common, is that they require an immense amount of physical fitness to conquer. Thus, their allure has been a huge draw for those seeking to take their workout to an entirely new level.
Anyone can. With increasing popularity and growth, aerial classes are becoming widely available. Classes are offered in a variety of formats and venues. Most popular currently are pole fitness classes, which allow for incredible strength and flexibility training necessary for tackling additional aerial equipment. The vertical pole is a solid, stationary device and is a great place to start learning the moves and poses that are transferable to the other devices.Who can do Aerial Fitness?
A great number of aerial apparatus are non-stationary, and require more control to master. If you’re a beginner, or just looking for a good time, try an aerial yoga class. Aerial silks are becoming widely used in gyms and fitness studios, and can be adjusted for skill level, size and comfort by tying them together in what is referred to as an ‘aerial hammock.’ The hammock allows for participants to be suspended at varying heights (starting close the floor) and to try different yoga and dance moves that assist with flexibility and technique. Aerial fitness is appropriate for anybody who wants to give it a try.
Where can I find a class?
Probably closer than you think! Get online and search for aerial fitness, aerial dance or pole classes in your area. There are numerous studios and gyms that offer various aerial class options. In addition, there is likely aerial instructors in your area who do private or group training, as well as performances and special events. Try hiring one for your next office party or retreat, girls night, or family reunion. Everyone will enjoy the chance to learn a new skill, get in shape and experience the feeling of flying!
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