Is Aerial Dance For Me?

You’ve landed on this page maybe because you aren’t sure if Aerial Dance is for you. Below are some questions you might be asking yourself.

Do I need any aerial experience to join a beginner level aerial class? 

No, you do not need any experience to join a beginner level class. In fact, most of our students come in with no experience at all.  At the beginning of each term, our instructors start with the fundamentals. 

Do I need any dance experience to take aerial classes?

No, you do not need any dance experience to take an aerial class. The majority of our instructors are professional dancers so our approach to teaching aerial classes may incorporate elements of dance technique with a focus on alignment and movement quality. We highly recommend supplementing your aerial training with any style of dance as it can help inform and enrich your aerial journey. ADC offers ballet classes for both kids and adults.

What can I expect to learn in the first class? 

Every class starts with a 10-minute warm-up. It’s incredibly important to us that our students are warm before getting on or handling any aerial apparatus. Our instructors will begin with the fundamentals which include introduction to various climbs, foot-locks and simple sequences. In the beginner level, you can expect to stay close to the ground. With silks, Intermediate and Advanced levels begin to work on skills from a greater height. Keep in mind that you should always work at your own pace and comfort level.

Why doesn’t ADC offer trial classes?

We do not offer trial classes because we believe that one 8-week term is a trial in itself. This art form requires dedication, repetition and most importantly, patience. If you are still unsure about signing up for a full term, you can schedule an appointment to observe a class. Please contact us to schedule an observation.

How long does it take to learn? 

Everyone’s aerial dance journey is different as aerial work is extremely challenging and will take repeated practice to learn. Repetition is important - even professionals in the field continue to practice the basics. You should allow about 6-weeks of class before expecting to feel a gain in strength and should expect to repeat beginner level classes several times before moving on to the next level. 

Do I need to have a lot of upper body strength? 

While having upper body strength is helpful for certain movements, it is not a prerequisite. You go at your own pace. To see an increase in strength we suggest cross training with regular cardiovascular and strengthening activities for optimal results in your aerial training. 

How much weight can an aerial apparatus hold? 

Our rigging system is very strong. For each aerial apparatus the maximum weight is approximately 250 pounds. Technically, the rigging system can hold more but this is the safest limit for our students and instructors.

Do I need to be flexible?

Similarly to upper body strength, being flexible is sometimes helpful but it is not a prerequisite. Our warm-up includes stretching components as does the majority of the skills you will learn throughout the class. To see an increase in flexibility we suggest building a consistent stretching routine to compliment your aerial training. 

How long should I stay at the beginner level?

The majority of our beginner level students spend an average of 3-4 terms before moving to the Intermediate level. See the prerequisites to join the Intermediate level here. 

I’m afraid of heights, am I expected to climb really high?

No, you are never expected to do anything that makes you uncomfortable. In our beginner level classes all skills taught will be practiced at a lower height. It is a mixture of how confident and comfortable you feel and whether your instructor feels that you are ready to work at greater heights. You go at your own pace! 

Is Aerial Dance dangerous? What is the likelihood that I will get injured? 

Though just as with any physical activity, there is some risk involved, aerial dance is not dangerous and the likelihood of injury is low. Safety is the number one priority at Aerial Dance Chicago and our instructors abide by strict safety protocol, follow a progressive step-by-step curriculum and take special care to make sure all students are properly warmed up. 

How do we address disabilities? 

Aerial Dance Chicago strives to make our programs inclusive and open to all. Please contact us.