You're too (insert) to do Aerials! How to Re-Define what it means to be an Aerialist

Reaching for the Stars

Imagine an aerialist, high up in the air. What do you see? Is she full of youth; is he muscular or sinewy; are they partners; is it someone curvy or with silver hair, or no hair? Are they in a dramatic costume or something less flashy?

Aerialists come in all ages, shapes, sizes, genders, and more. From teens to the timeless, aerial arts offer exciting, very vertical pathways to a deeper understanding of you. When you defy gravity, you can't help but defy your age.

A lot of misconceptions exist about age and athletics so let's be clear. Athletics are an all-ages pursuit. Throw away everything you've been fed about acting your age or getting older gracefully. Another year around the sun is something to be celebrated in whatever way you wish! 

Age and Creative Movement 

We've all heard of athletes, dancers, actors...people who have a short "timeline" where they feel they are at their peak. But what would it be like to live life without paying attention to accumulated years. 

Dancing Keeps You Young

Check out the athletic artistry of these performance artists:

• Greta Pontarelli is a world champion pole artist who is proudly well into her 70s. She recently won her 12th Masters World Competition.
• Betty Goedhart is an 89-year old trapeze artist who holds the 2019 Guinness World Record for "oldest performing flying trapeze artist". Inspired by the daring circus artists she watched as a child, Betty finally got a chance to learn the ropes when she was 78 years old.

Photo: fpole.wordpress.com

The Gifts of Exploring Aerial Arts 

Aerial arts will keep you coming back for more. Being in the air gives you a high like no other. Aside from being the best workout around, your practice will sharpen your confidence and hone your bravery. When you embrace and tap into your life experience, you can approach aerials art with a presence and grace. At any stage of your life, when you become an aerialist you automatically become an inspiration to others. You may never know exactly how you'll be a source of good vibes for your fellow classmates, the public, your friends and family, or your audience, but you can be sure that your actions will help someone else along their journey.

When You Start Your Classes

The class itself should generally include introductions, a thorough warm-up, demonstrations, and skill-building. You might have a little free time at the end of the session to review, put it all together, and even video if you like. And above all, the culture and vibe of the studio should be one you enjoy! 

Practice Your Aerial Self-Care

There are some great ways you can extend your self-care routine into your aerial practice and maximize your success so you can enjoy a lifetime of aerials. 

Ensure to perform a thorough warm-up when class starts, thus changing the way you are relating to gravity in space. 

Be accepting of taking guidance from your instructors.

Conditioning is not most people's favorite, but its regular practice will help you out in the long run. Be sure to always employ a proper technique to avoid developing unfavorable habits.

As a new students, recognize and be ok with stepping out of your comfort zone in order to accomplish new tricks and poses. As an experienced aerialist, set goals that leverage your skills.

Staying Safe

Aerial arts can be accessible to everyone who has the desire. If you have the drive, you're halfway there. A good instructor will suggest modifications to accommodate everyone, and also create an atmosphere of inclusiveness and success for her students. At Gravity District, our goal is to help make aerial arts more accessible and for you to feel you're in a safe space. Our team is here to help.