Aerial Acrobatics

Apparatuses

• Aerial Hammock: This is a wider piece of fabric similar to a hammock, but also suspended from the ceiling.
• Aerial Rope (Corde Lisse): A long, thick rope hanging from the ceiling used for aerial acrobatics. Performers climb, wrap, and drop using their strength and skill to create dynamic and elegant movements.
• Aerial Silks: Long, fabric strips used for climbing, wrapping, and performing various moves.
• Aerial Sling: Similar to aerial hammock but hung with a swivel, which gives the possibility for the dancer to spin during the dance.
• Aerial Strap: Two long fabric straps suspended from the ceiling used for aerial acrobatics. Similar to aerial silks, performers utilize strength and flexibility to perform a variety of maneuvers like climbs, inversions, and drops.
• Lyra: (Also known as aerial hoop or aerial ring) A circular metal hoop used for spinning, posing, and acrobatic movements.
• Pole: A vertical metal pole used for climbing, spinning, and performing strength-based tricks and transitions.
• Trapeze: A horizontal bar suspended by ropes or cables, used for swinging, static poses, and dynamic tricks.

Movements

• Catch: Grabbing a different part of the apparatus or being caught by a partner.
• Climb: Ascending the apparatus using hands and feet.
• Drop: A controlled descent from a height, often releasing one or both hands.
• Footlock: Securing the fabric or rope around the foot or ankle for a stable hold.
• Inversion: Hanging upside down with the head below the feet.
• Spin: Rotating or turning on the apparatus while maintaining control.
• Wrap: Wrapping the fabric or apparatus around the body to create poses, locks, or transitions.

Positions

• Pike: Body folded at the hips with legs extended straight.
• Pose: Holding a static position or shape on the apparatus.
• Straddle: Legs extended wide apart in a V-shape.

Other

• Flexibility Training: Stretching and mobility exercises to improve range of motion.
• Routine: A choreographed sequence of moves and transitions.
• Spotter: A person assisting during practice or performance to ensure safety.
• Strength Conditioning: Exercises to build strength and endurance.

• Watch videos on what to expect at your first aerial class, and what it looks like.
• Find a local aerial studio or instructor near you.

• Aerial Hammock Lessons – Aerial Practice
• Aerial Hoop dance tutorials – Aerial Practice

• Are Aerial Arts Suitable for Men? Breaking Stereotypes | Vertical Wise
• Types of Aerial Acrobatics: Exploring the Various Styles | Vertical Wise

• Aerial Acrobatics Articles | Vertical Wise
• Aerial Practice – Aerial Hammock & Hoop Tutorials and Training
• Uplift Active Aerial Fitness Blog – All About Aerial Yoga

• Aerial Classes Near You
• Challenges – Aerial Practice

• Aerial Events Near You
• Aerial Sports Centers Near You
• Circus Arts groups | Meetup
• Instructors | XPERT Fitness