Aerial Silks Classes for Beginners in Geelong: What to Expect
If you've watched someone climb a length of fabric, wrap themselves up and then unroll towards the floor, you've probably wondered how they learnt it. The answer is: one small step at a time, starting close to the ground.
Here's what beginner aerial silks classes in Geelong look like at CircArts, who they're for, and how to book your first one.
What is aerial silks?
Aerial silks (also called aerial fabric or tissu) uses two long lengths of stretchy fabric hung from the ceiling. You learn to climb the fabric, lock your feet into it, wrap it around your body, hold shapes and, later on, drop and unroll in controlled ways.
It looks like pure flexibility, but it's mostly technique and strength. The good news is that both are learnt in class. You don't need to arrive with either.
Who can learn aerial silks?
Pretty much anyone. At CircArts we teach silks to:
Kids aged 5 to 11 in Discover Aerial, their first aerial class
Teens aged 12 to 17 in Aerial Beginner (Level 2)
Adults 18 and over in Discover Aerial or Aerial Silks, both made for complete beginners
Adult members include people well over 50. Coaches give options for every body, so you work at your level today and build from there.
What you learn in your first few silks classes
Beginner classes focus on the foundations that every other silks skill is built on.
Grip and hanging. Learning to hold your own weight safely, with your shoulders engaged.
Foot locks. Wrapping the fabric around your foot so you can stand on it. This is the skill that makes climbing possible.
Your first climb. Usually taught in stages, starting with a few steps near the floor.
Simple wraps and shapes. Sitting, standing and posing in the fabric while it holds you.
Getting down with control. Coming down slowly and safely is a skill in itself.
Plenty of beginners have their first go upside down (an inversion) in the early weeks, once their coach is happy with their grip and control.
How beginner classes are run
Low first, then higher
We teach strength before height. Every new skill starts low to the mats, and you only go higher when your coach sees you're ready. There are crash mats under every apparatus.
Small classes
Classes have a maximum of 8 students per coach. That means time on the fabric, plenty of turns, and a coach who can see what you're doing and help you fix it.
Real circus artists as coaches
Our coaches are working circus artists. They have all done in-house coach training and hold a Working With Children Check and first aid.
A studio built for aerial
Our Grovedale studio has 7 metre ceilings and dedicated aerial zones, so silks classes have room to climb. You'll find silks, trapeze, lyra (aerial hoop) and hammock rigged across the space. Read more about each one on our aerial classes page.
What your first class feels like
Honest answer: your forearms will work hard. Grip is usually the first thing to tire, and it improves week by week.
You might not climb all the way up on day one. That's normal, and coaches won't rush you. The fabric can also leave some redness on your legs and feet at first. Long leggings help, and it settles as your technique improves.
Most people leave their first class tired, a bit sore the next day, and already planning their next one.
How quickly will I improve?
It depends on how often you train. Once a week is a great start and you'll notice changes. If you want to see progress every week, we suggest three sessions a week, which is what we recommend to all our students.
Students move up levels when they're ready in skill and focus, not because of their age or how long they've been coming. Your coach will let you know when it's time, or you can ask for an assessment.
Silks, trapeze or lyra: which is best for beginners?
All three are good places to start, and they build on each other.
Silks builds grip, climbing strength and body awareness.
Trapeze gives you a bar to sit and balance on, which some beginners find a gentler start.
Lyra (aerial hoop) is a steel hoop you sit, stand and spin in.
If you can't decide, a mixed beginner class like Discover Aerial lets you try silks, trapeze and lyra before you choose a favourite.
What to wear to an aerial silks class
Leggings that cover the backs of your knees
A fitted top that covers your underarms
No zips, buttons or jewellery
Hair tied back
A water bottle
Silks classes are done barefoot or in grip socks.
How to book your first silks class
The easiest way in is our Starter Pass: three beginner classes for $55, used within 14 days. You can use all three on silks, or mix in other classes.
Adults can see class options on our adult aerial classes page.
Parents can find Discover Aerial and other beginner options on our kids circus classes page.
After your Starter Pass, memberships start from $34 a week. See our pricing page for the details.
Not sure which class to book? Text 0489 082 643 with your age (or your child's age) and any experience, and we'll point you in the right direction.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be strong to start aerial silks?
No. Beginner classes build strength step by step, and you don't need any strength, fitness or flexibility to start.
How high do beginners go?
Not very high at first. Beginners work low to the mats and climb higher as their skills grow.
What age can kids start aerial silks?
Kids can start Discover Aerial at 5. Little ones aged 3 to 4 can try aerial play in our Tiny Circus classes with a parent nearby.
Can I practise silks at home?
Please don't try new skills at home without a qualified coach and properly rated rigging. Members on three or more classes a week get free open training in staffed hours at the studio.
Where are classes held?
At CircArts, Warehouse 33, 33/8 Lewalan Street, Grovedale, with 5-minute drop-off parking out front.