Aerial silks is a type of performance in which one or more artists perform aerial acrobatics while hanging from a specialist fabric. The fabric may be hung as two pieces, or a single piece, folded to make a loop, classified as hammock silks.

Aerial silks offer a unique and visually stunning performance art form that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and circus arts. The performers use the fabric to climb, wrap, twist, and suspend themselves in the air, creating breath-taking shapes and movements

Here are a few FAQ’s which will hopefully answer any questions you may have.

1. Is Aerial silks is hard?- YES, but don’t let that stop you!!

 You will be introduced to silks slowly with exercises and moves that you can achieve on your first lesson. Yes, it will be a real challenge but you are taught slowly, with strength building & safety as the main priority.  

2. Your attitude is 100x more important than however “strong/flexible/coordinated/good” you may be. Consistency is key!

Everyone begins aerial silks with different prior learning, experiences, and physical abilities. As an aerial teacher with over 10 years experience my most valued quality in my students is a positive attitude and a willingness to try things more than once; most silks moves and exercises require several attempts to get on the right track. Perfection before progression!

3. Will it hurt? Yep it does. Quite a lot…

When you see professionals perform up in the air they may fool you into believing that they’re rolling around in clouds. It’s all lies. When you do your first locks on your feet and wrists the fabric will pinch and squeeze you skin, bruising & burns are inevitable. The good news is that your nerves will adjust and over a relatively short time (few weeks) these wraps will be much more comfortable. And with new moves will come new pains…

4. But still tell your teacher if you’re in pain!

 You’ll learn to distinguish between “normal” or expected pain, and “bad” or potentially damaging pain to be avoided. Burning, squeezing, and tightness on your skin is generally up to you to persevere through as much as you can. A lot of people quickly adjust to this as they’re super excited about learning a cool silks move. Things to watch out for: joint pain, muscle twisting pain or anything unusual which is deeper than your skin; don’t push through it! Find a safe way back to the mat and ask your teacher about the pain. They may well correct your technique and fix the problem straight away.

5. Repetition is key to success

 Use your class time wisely to mindfully repeat moves your teacher has taught you & do the conditioning & flexibility drills. In the moment you may feel your brain has a handle on your foot locks and split rolls; but the more repetition your muscles get, the more your muscles will help you next time you come back to remember the move.

6. Wear correct attire! NO ZIPS, BUTTONS, SEQUINS, TOGGLES

 Zips can damage the silks and make your teacher cry. NO ZIPS. Check your leggings for secret hidden evil zips that you didn’t realise were there. Also it’s advisable to cover backs of knees, midriff, and occasionally arm pits to protect your skin from silks friction burns. You can wear your zip hoodie for warm ups. Silks are very strong but can snag and rip surprisingly easily, even a jagged toe nail can make a large hole.

7. Let your silks journey unfold at your pace and prepare to be amazed. Try not compare your journey with anyone else.

Trust your teacher when they have you repeating basics; this will build a strong foundation for you to excel. Your progress after 3 months on to 1 year will absolutely astound you. You will look back at beginning moves and struggle to remember the difficulty or amount of energy required when you started. Every student has what it takes to achieve their goals with the right attitude, support, time and dedication.