Do I need to have upper body strength to take a class?

Nope! Beginner moves in aerial arts do not require lots of upper body strength. As you learn climbs, moves, and poses, you will build strength as you go. Each new skill will be a challenge, but you'll find you have built up the strength you need!

What happens if I miss a class?

While showing up to class regularly is the main key to progress, our classes are recreational in nature, and we understand that you may miss a class or two per session.

You will be able to catch up on skills, as we practice every skill we learn many, many times. You are welcome to drop in to any class or jam at or below your level to make up an absence within the same session. Refunds are not given for student absences or class cancellations, but you will always have the opportunity for a class makeup.

Is there still a space in this class?

If the class is still showing up on the classes page, there is still at least one spot left. Hurry and reserve your spot before they sell out!

If you know a class exists but don't see it on the scheduler, it may full OR may be past the registration window. Feel free to message us to see if you can grab a spot.

Can my child/young teen attend the adult classes or class with an older group?

No. Children and adults have very different learning needs and adults also often don't feel comfortable trying challenging new tasks around kids. Youth at different ages also have very different physical and social development needs. Unless we specifically invite your child to take a more advanced class, they should attend the class for their age group.

Teens ages 15+ or who are in high school may take adult classes. We can arrange private group classes for youth, and youth can also join Air Craft Madison for classes!

What if I'm afraid of heights?

Beginner aerial moves are performed close to the floor, with spotters, and over mats! By the time you are expected to work high, you will have confidence your ability to hang on, perform your moves, and troubleshoot safely from any height. Aerial arts are the perfect way to conquer your fears!

Am I too old/heavy/curvy/tall/funny-shaped/whatever for aerial?

Absolutely not!! Aerial and circus arts are for ALL kinds of bodies! While some medical conditions might mean aerial is not right for you, there is no right or wrong body type, and we specialize in making aerial arts fun and rewarding for all kinds of students! Aerial apparatus are rated to safely hold thousands of pounds, so there is no weight limit. If you are looking for a class experience that is as gentle as possible, start with Intro to Aerial Sling.

What should I wear to class?

Stretchy, form-fitting clothes required for class. Pants/tights must reach below the knee, and shirts/leotards must cover the midriff fully front and back. You may also want to cover your armpits to avoid friction burns. If you have any external genitalia, you will want a dance belt or supportive undergarment. Most students elect to go barefoot during training, but you can also work in socks if you prefer.

You will need to remove jewelry from your hands, wrists, neck, and earrings that dangle. Avoid lotion just before class so your hands aren't slippery, but do put on some fresh deodorant!

I want to take classes, but it's so expensive, can you help?

As approved instructors with the Madison Circus Space, we can help connect you to the Madison Circus Space Scholarship program. For more information visit: madisoncircusspace.com/scholarship-program

How can I practice at home?

Pilates, yoga, bodyweight exercises, handstand practice, dance, and core-building workouts will help you a lot in your aerial practice! You can always ask in class for conditioning to do at home.

What we do NOT recommend is beginners getting a rig or working unsupervised on aerial equipment. There is a lot of detailed knowledge about safety that most beginners don't have yet, and accidents can happen easily. People practicing at home get seriously hurt unfortunately often. Please come to a jam instead!

Can we hire you to perform at our event/party?

Yes! If your event has open floor space of about 20 ft square and high ceilings, we may be able to rig at your event. We would visit or use video of your space to see if our rig will fit or if the ceilings can safely hold a rig point to make an aerial performance work. We can also help connect you with other on-the-ground circus and flow arts performers and magicians. Visit our performances page for more information.

Can you help me get a silk/trapeze/cloud swing for home?

WE STRONGLY ADVISE AGAINST RIGGING FROM YOUR CEILING! Beginner aerialists are not ready for working independently - its necessary to understand basic theory and rigging and have necessary body control to stay safe and not train in bad habits.

On top of this, most houses in the US will not safely withstand aerial forces, which max out at about 7.5 times an aerialists bodyweight, while hanging from below. Houses aren't built for that! The Construction upgrades or a freestanding aerial rig plus mats, rigging, and equipment that are safely rated are multiple thousands of dollars as well - it's a huge investment best saved for when you know you're serious.

If you have reached an intermediate level, have taking rigging classes, and feel ready we can help you choose an appropriate freestanding rated aerial rig - they come in heights from 7 to 24 feet tall. We can also put you in touch with a professional rigger.

If your rigging is sorted out already, we are happy to help you source your apparatus - if you are looking for a custom dyed silk, visit our Flights of Fancy Store!