Table of Contents
Any thrill seekers in the audience? If you’ve ever been to a circus, you’ve likely seen some form of an aerial arts performance, but did you know you can swing from the rafters right here in Music City?
We recently tried an all levels drop-in flying trapeze class at the Nashville School for the Aerial Arts — which also offers aerial silk + hammock, lyra, and other classes. If you’re looking to raise the bar on your summer bucket list, here’s what to know before booking your first class.
The basics
- Safety: You’ll be connected to a harness and safety lines from the time you climb the ladder until the moment you come down from the net.
- What you’ll learn: In your first drop-in class, instructors will teach you how to gain position on the bar, hook your legs for a knee hang, and perform the catch. Returning students can practice new tricks at their own pace.
- Experience: All experience levels are welcome (Editor Skylar had none), but participants must be at least 8 years old + weigh no more than 250 pounds.
The lingo + skills
- The takeoff: This is the step right before you leap from the platform. You’ll start in ground school, where you’ll practice on the floor standing with your hips forward, reaching out, and keeping your chest nice and tall.
- Ready and hep: From there, you’ll hear “ready,” your signal to bend your knees. Then, “hep,” the small jump off of the platform. Pro tip: Timing is crucial — make sure you’re ready to go at each call.
- Hook your legs: The first command in flight, a call that comes right at the peak of your first swing, and when you’ll start bringing your legs to the bar. “Hands off” follows the command to then hang upside down. You’ll arch your back all the way on the next swing before the call to bring your legs down and have a seat in the net.
For what to wear, cost, how to book, and the cancellation policy — review this list of frequently asked questions.
