One of the most popular aerial disciplines due to its versatility, Aerial Silks involves two lengths of fabric rigged from the ceiling. Starting off with a variety of climbs to build your strength and get you off the ground, the moves progress into wrapping and manoeuvring your body around (and upside down) the silks to pull off some photo-worthy moves. The more adventurous aerialist would also work towards drops from a height.
Aerial Silks is a perfect starting ground if you’d like to improve your body awareness, with classes focusing on working to safely improve both functional strength and flexibility. Lessons are structured to cater to varying levels, from the absolute beginner to the aspiring circus artist, with moves and exercises allowing for progression to higher ability levels.
Whilst it is a relatively forgiving apparatus given the softness of the material, Aerial Silks target a strong engagement and strengthening of the core muscles. This is in combination with improving grip strength, shoulder mobility and back and lat muscles, working in harmony with each other. Less commonly accessible leg muscle groups are also targeted, such as the hip flexors and adductors & abductors, whilst working to lengthen and release tension in the lower back, hamstrings and calves.
Classes available at: Union Street and Peckham. Check the booking page for class times and locations.
Silks is one of the most popular first disciplines, partly because the fabric feels forgiving underhand and partly because the moves look extraordinary even at beginner level. Your first class will focus on climbing and basic wraps, and most people are surprised by how much they can do in a single session. It's a brilliant place to start if you want visible, fast progress, and your intro offer covers all our beginner Silks classes at both studios.
"The best thing about any Flying Fantastic class is that it is always different to the last - be it more challenging, rewarding or funny! You are surrounded by a group of people who are supportive and motivational, but best of all, are happy to be there. The instructors are experienced and are great at recognising your potential so you never feel held back.
I get bruises, friction burns, foot and hand cramps out of a Flying Fantastic silks class! But it is always worth it in the end when you have the satisfaction of mastering a routine and feeling yourself growing stronger at each session."
Miss M Thompson
