ALOFTCIRCUSARTS
CONTEMPORARY CIRCUS ARTS TRAINING
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"Just when you think you've challenged your body and know your limitations, leave it to the folks at Aloft to change your perspective."
I have so many questions!
Relax...we have so many answers.
What class should I take? I've never done anything like this before!
Aloft's beginner classes are designed for people just like you! You don't have to be Simone Biles to learn how to fly through the air with the greatest of ease! Circus is HARD though (harder than yoga AND harder than pilates!), so a baseline of fitness is a good idea. If you are afraid to go upside down, try tightwire! If you don't like using your arms, trampoline might be a good idea. If you're a huge giant, you could make a great acro base!
We require that all students who plan to enter into aerial classes start in our Aerial Basics Classes to learn the ropes (get it???). This class will cover all the info that you need to jump into any Beginner level aerial class (trapeze, silks, rope, lyra). You'll stay in this class until you've mastered the basic skills needed to move up. This class is available as a class card, enabling you to take the classes as frequently as you want and move up on your own time and comfort level.
If you are interested in a non-aerial class you can begin in any "Beginning Level". If you have questions, feel free to reach out.
But I've taken circus/aerial classes elsewhere...what class level should I be in? What do your levels even mean? How do I move up?
We have found in the past that our class levels are more challenging than some other studios. People who have been Intermediate at other studios often find themselves more comfortable in an Advanced Beginning classes. It's not a bad idea to skew down and if you don't feel challenged we can move you up mid session after consulting with your instructor. If you have a question about what level to take, please email Christine and explain your previous experience and she will help you find the perfect class.
You will see that a few classes do not have levels. These are open level classes, but they skew away from beginning skills--you won't learn how to get yourself on the equipment in these classes. We always suggest starting in a beginner class if available.
Our classes have a set curriculum in the Beginning-Intermediate 1 levels. Once a student has mastered all the skills in a level they will recieve instructor permission to move up! You may only move up a level in a same apparatus class (trapeze to trapeze, silks to silks). The only exception to this is silks to rope. After Intermediate 1 classes, the teachers strongly refer to their own experience and style in their teaching. At these levels you will probably find the teacher who meshes with your style and interests the best and stick with that person, or move around and get exposed to a variety of styles!
Dressing in layers is always a good idea. Many aerial classes invlove pressure on the feet and ankles, so wearing tight leggings is a great idea. If you have sensetive skin you may want to bring socks, leg warmers or ankle braces. A tank top with a long-sleeved shirt on top will give you options. It's also a great idea to make sure your waist is covered with a long, tight shirt or leotard. The more clothes the better. You can always take things off.
We have limited dressing room space. We suggest that you come in your class clothes. We do not have shower facilities.
What should I wear? Where do I change my clothes?
Do you have a parent viewing area?
We don't have a parent viewing area. We think that kids are better able to focus when they aren't worried about impressing their parents. Of course you want to see what your cuties are learning, so we will have a parent viewing day every session! Take this chance to get a coffee down the street and decompress! I have a toddler, too. I know you need some chill time.
I'm too old/fat/skinny/weak/injured/shy/ADHD/pretty to take these classes...
No you're not. You're fine. You're perfect. You're beautiful. We all have to start somewhere. No one is born with arm muscles like this. There is room in circus for all body types and brain types. We've had people with debilitating injuries and ailments begin taking classes and find real freedom from this activity. You're going to be great. You already are.