Aerial Workouts: Curtain Climbing Isn't Just for Circus Performers

Whether you call it aerial dancing, aerial climbing, aerial gymnastics or curtain climbing, aerial fabric workouts are intense, fun and catching on. Sometimes referred to as curtain climbers, these aerialists pride themselves in their flexibility, strength and grace. I recently had the unexpected opportunity to observe an aerial fabric workshop for women at a Minneapolis gymnastics facility. Although I'm not a candidate for any kind of activity that will take my feet more than a few inches off the ground, I was intrigued and amazed at how many women have shown an interest in such an acrobatic workout.

The workshop was just for beginners and those who simply have an interest in learning more about aerial workouts. I qualified as the latter. There were eight people in attendance, excluding me. The youngest participant was seven years old; the oldest was perhaps 30.

It all began with what I thought was a breathtaking demonstration by the instructor. She first used two pieces of fabric, called ropes, that hung from the 28-foot ceiling. She scaled the ropes, wrapping them around her feet. With unbelievable strength, flexibility and coordination, she performed flips and splits and beautiful aerial "dances." She hung upside down, spun in circles and demonstrated unbelievable upper body strength. Next, she added a large hoop that was suspended approximately 10 feet from the floor. Again, her graceful flips and moves were something to behold.

After several minutes of what looked easy, workshop attendees were encouraged to participate. A couple of women quickly volunteered. However, until a person develops her strength, coordination and balance, all work begins on the floor.

The first goal is to master a simple (I didn't say easy) climb up the aerial fabric. Aerial maneuvers don't begin until the student has developed enough strength and technique to ensure she won't lose her grip and fall to the floor. A student begins the climb by extending her arms over her head and grasping the fabric strips. Standing on one foot, she wraps the fabric around the lower part of her other leg, which is raised off the floor. Then she pulls herself up with her arms while pushing off her raised foot with the foot that was on the floor.

Every workshop participant was given the opportunity to work on the climb. To a person, they all thought it was a much more difficult exercise than it either looked or they thought it would be.

Although I find it hard to believe, the instructor claims "anyone" can learn this art of circus performers, now called aerial workouts or aerial dance. She said flexibility, strength and determination are the keys. From California to Colorado to South Dakota to Minnesota, aerial or fabric workouts are growing in popularity as a tough and effective workout, as well as a beautiful art form. From what I observed in a 90-minute workshop, I must agree.