Aerial Silks (sometimes referred to as aerial tissue or aerial fabric) introduces students to a dynamic and empowering circus art that fosters a high degree of strength, power, flexibility, courage and grace. The classes are inspired by the performance art in which one or more artists perform aerial acrobatics while hanging from a fabric to climb, wrap, suspend, fall, swing, and spiral the body into and out of various positions.
Aerial silks class is designed to take you through the acrobatic technique of suspending your body in the air with the support of proper grips, wraps and locks. In a class series format, this circus-inspired method trains students in techniques employed by aerialists, ranging from purely practical and efficient to athletic, creative and elegant.
Class Levels
Classes are divided into specific levels so that students learn in progressive stages as they advance their practice. Aerial Silks 101 workshops introduce new students to the fabrics and get them familiar with basic techniques to get airborne. Beginner-level classes teach students climbing techniques as well as foot locks, hand grips and wraps. As students progress, classes develop with sequences that include climbing, wrapping + various expressions of postures suspended in the fabrics. A consistent and progressive practice provide students with tools to combine sequences and create their own unique choreography in the fabrics.
Pre-Requisites
Aerial Silks 101 is a general pre-requisite for all Aerial Silks classes. This introductory workshop provides students with a practice that builds body awareness and strength as a preparation for on-going classes in Aerial Silks. Students with prior Aerial Arts experience are welcome, provided that they can climb and are familiar with basic foot wraps. Please check our online schedule for the next Aerial Silks 101 workshop dates. Aerial Vinyasa + Aerial Bootcamp classes offer another great way for students to build strength and body awareness as a progression towards Aerial Silks.
Equipment + Safety
The fabrics used for Aerial Silks are very strong with some give and flexibility. Om Factory’s 15-foot ceilings and extra long aerial fabrics allow for a great many tricks and a few drops that can be done safely. For beginners, the extra fabric that comes down past the ground allows them to practice wraps on the ground or at a lower level where they can be spotted. Om Factory also use safety mats (aka crash pads) for each silks station to ensure a safe practice space. Students use climbing chalk or rosin on hands and feet to increase the friction and grip on the fabric.
