Good Vibes All Around
Walking into class each week, it’s nice to have a smiling face greet you every single time and ask you how your day went. The instructors genuinely care about you as a person and your growth in the journey. The positivity that these women emit is just amazing. Society looks at us as tearing each other down, but this group of women are always lifting us up! It feels absolutely wonderful to walk into a place and feel welcome every single time. Even when in a class, other instructors walk by and cheer us on. It makes this journey alone a little bit easier. Even though I am shy and quiet in class, I am secretly jumping up and down inside when an instructor compliments me. I am always excited to get home and tell my husband what I learned and accomplished for the day. I have learned through out my life that constructive criticism is a good thing. The instructors are always willing to help you and correct you when needed. The moves are meant to be done a certain way so that injuries do not happen. You will work muscles you never even knew you had. Instructors never push you to keep going but tell us instead to listen to our body. If something is too much for the day or there is an injury, whether it be pole related or not, they just want you to be safe and take it easy when your body tells you to slow down. Everyone has those days when you just do not want to show up to class or do anything. However, the instructors are always excited and proud that you made it to class anyways. Even with the tough days it still makes me feel good that I went. I may come in a little salty, but I always feel so good after. I’m always happy I made the decision to come to class. I lost my job January 2022. Even with all the discounted classes and signing up for next term I turned down all offers because I knew that I would not be able to afford the costs. I really didn’t want to have to give this up, especially because it is a huge stress reliever for me. After talking with a couple of the girls they told me that there is a sisterhood scholarship made available to those who need it and/or are struggling. I put in my application for the scholarship and it was accepted! I was so excited to be able to continue my pole journey. This is what a community is supposed to be like. We are all here for each other and to push each other. To congratulate one another, cheer for each other, and lift each other up. I have never been a part of a close knit group of women. These girls give me hope. They are a really good dose of serotonin when you need it. I am not sure they know how much they are truly appreciated by their students. I will forever be grateful to have met everyone at Aerial Dance. Want to try classes at Aerial Dance and belong to a great community? Start with Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial!
One Good Life Choice Leads to Others
I have always had a really hard struggle with my weight and being healthy and into fitness. I always found it to be really boring and never was able to keep myself motivated and wanting to go to the gym or do anything like that because I would just get sick of it after a short amount of time. Since I started doing aerial, I find myself to be really excited and motivated to go to the gym. I have started to actually watch what I put into my body and am a lot more healthy than I used to be. My one choice has snowballed into many that have been healthy changes in my life. I really am enjoying the variety of different classes that are offered because it helps me to not get bored of just the same thing all the time. I enjoy being able to share my passion with a lot of other wonderful women who also enjoy the same things. It really does feel like one big family to me and nobody is ever judgmental of each other, we all lift each other up and support each other. I am thankful that I decided to make the choice to try this, I find myself to be getting stronger every single day in ways I never thought I would be able to! My overall muscle tone is so much better and my mindset is great because I feel like I am able to accomplish many of the things I did not think I would ever be able to. I love that I find myself wanting to learn new things and pushing myself harder than I thought I would be able to. It was very difficult at first, but the instructors really come down to your level and help you every step of the way so you are able to accomplish the moves that you want to. They are all very uplifting and have such a positive attitude, you can tell they are definitely passionate about their job. Meeting other women in the same/similar situations as myself has been so beneficial for my fitness journey as well. Working out side by side and talking to other adult women has been so refreshing. It doesn’t even matter what we talk about during class, it just feels good to be engaged in adult conversations with other women. I had struggled being new to the area to make meaningful connections and friends, but the women at the studio welcomed me and made me feel like I belong. That sense of belonging makes it easier to want to return and get my booty kicked day in and day out! Come see what Aerial Dance is all about! Try Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial!
A New Journey
My journey at Aerial Dance started when a friend gave me a gift certificate last Christmas. She had started classes and loved every one she took. She knew I had grown up dancing and coaching dance and thought I would benefit from attending some classes at the studio. At the time, she gifted the certificate to me I was going through a rough period in life and was questioning everything about myself. I questioned who I thought I was and what I was doing in my life. I felt lost and that I didn’t know myself. It took me another 10 months before I worked up the courage to attend an Intro to Pole class. By that point I was going through an intense divorce. I was still questioning myself (even more). I was trying to find new outlets to not only fill my time, but explore things I had interest in but had never tried before or would’ve never tried. New and unknown wasn’t something I did- I was always the one who had to plan and figure out all outcomes to try and prevent chaos from happening. I was nervous to attend, but honestly, equally excited. I decided to take advice I always gave my dancers before they performed. I would say when they were nervous: Nerves are good, they mean you care how it turns out. So I went in. From that first session I was in love. It was new, exciting, and scary. It was uncomfortable BUT felt like it fit. Like this was something I should’ve been doing all along. I left knowing that couldn’t be the last time I do that. I felt like I had found a new friend that I clicked with. Something that was meant to be. It also made me feel like I had found a piece of me that I hadn’t met before. And after feeling lost for some time, it was just what I needed. The newness and the unknown was exciting to me after having to plan everything in life. It can be so scary to try something new. I am usually the person who overthinks and over analyzes. That often prevents me from trying (part of the reason it took me 10 months to use a gift certificate!). After coming to Aerial Dance I have realized how important it is to try new things and things that scare you. If you’re the slightest bit interested or curious about Aerial Dance- DO IT! Remember, nerves mean you care and things that scare you a little can be some of the best things that happen to you in life! Start your journey with Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial and see what classes at Aerial Dance are all about!
Support
I have been a part of multiple dance teams over the course of two and a half decades. I’ve been both a team member and a coach. I am a huge believer in teamwork and in encouraging one another. I know the value of a strong support system. Sometimes the only reason you start something or keep going is because you have someone cheering you on and believing in you! No where is this more evident than at Aerial Dance! Most women who walk in the door here are trying something new, stepping out of their comfort zone. That is intimidating and super scary! This combo can make you self conscious. Worried everyone is watching and judging what you do, or don’t do, what you say, how you look. All these thoughts get in the way of doing the work and having the fun. However, from the second you walk in to Aerial Dance you feel the support. Everyone on staff, everyone taking class- they are so encouraging and helpful! Trying new things in class isn’t as nerve wracking when the instructors walk you through, give you different tips to make the pose work, and cheer you on each step of the way! They encourage your progress and want to help you grow. You see it and feel it no matter which instructor you have! And that safe space and positive energy transfers to students. I haven’t been in one class where I haven’t experienced encouraging words from someone in class. Whether you’re trying a new move or working on a previous one those words spur you on to try harder. It also makes you want to return the favor. It creates a space of empowerment and respect. You realize very early on that no one is there to judge or to compare and “be better” than anyone else. Everyone wants everyone to succeed, have fun, and feel good about themselves! Aerial Dance had given me a safe, supportive, and encouraging space to discover my confidence and realize who I want to be with an amazing group of women cheering me on every step of the way! Start your journey today and join our amazingly supportive community!Try Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial to see what Aerial Dance is all about!
Stronger Every Class
Aerial Dance has given me the strength both mentally and physically to do things I never would have imagined. I can walk into the studio with my head held high. I can walk into a studio full of beautiful, strong women, some I have never met but still greet me with a smile and a “how’s it going”. I truly enjoy how everyone is always so uplifting towards each other. They’re always cheering each other on when someone nails a new trick or a trick we have all been working hard to nail. From my first class on the many different empowering women at Aerial have helped me conquer my fears of judgment. I always used to be afraid of joining a gym or fitness center. It had been so long since I was in shape or even knew how to properly work out. I was so scared of not being accepted or looking bad when trying to do thing that I would always back out. I never had that negative, judgmental, pressure going to Aerial. I have always been welcomed with open arms. I am praised for my successes no mater how small they may have been and always pushed and cheered on to do more. It’s a comforting feeling not having to worry about a thing when I walk into a studio. My first class I had such an amazing instructor. I was exhausted, sore, kissed by the hoop as we say, but the next day I woke up feeling on top of the world. Like I had just accomplished the goal of a life time. I got through a 50min intense workout. I was so impressed with myself. Not just because I made it through the full class, but because I had lifted my full body weight off the ground and into a hoop multiple times. I had never done anything like it and this was the first workout I had done on purpose since having my son. I felt like a super mom! I now look forward to every class and learning the next cool trick. I have struggled for years trying to find what I always thought was impossible, but I found it at Aerial! The love, encouragement, strength, and patience these beautiful women show everyday is a total breath of fresh air. I 1000x over recommend anyone and everyone to try a class. Break from the norm of working out and try it out you will not be disappointed! Join our community and get strong! Try Intro to Aerial or Intro to Pole today!
Inspirational to Others
No matter your age, gender, or stage of life, having someone who inspires you to be the best version of yourself is always a positive thing. I truly feel there are so many individuals, students and instructors at Aerial that are true inspirations to me. I won’t name their names but if you get the chance to attend one class even, and get to interact with these beautiful people, I guarantee they are going to be the rainbow at the beginning of your path that guides you to become part of the Aerial Family. The first is so soft spoken, loving and reminds you of everything beautiful in the world. She is a tiny little power house, so graceful and elegant in every apparatus. She is devoted and hard working not just with Aerial, but with many other places, making a positive and beautiful impact on the world. Any conversation you have with her just melts your heart. The second, such a kind soul with the muscles of a goddess!!! She is cute, quirky, super dedicated to improving her skills, and helping others. Her personal drive to always do better inspires me, she clearly sets her mind to something and stays so focused, dedicated, and determined and to get to see her final results of it all in the end is so awesome. I strive to someday be even remotely as good as she is at everything. The third, another amazing strong woman, she has been going to Aerial for several years now, she is so devoted to her skill, booking practices and coming in knowing exactly what she is going to practice. It trips me up everytime she comes in, just watching the series of moves she puts together in a beautiful sequence and most of the time she will film herself and then go back and clean up or correct whatever she feels that she could improve on. I had never met someone so passionate about their skills /hobby before. My list could go on and on of amazing individuals anyone would be lucky to get to know. I am beyond grateful for the welcoming environment Aerial has to offer, for if it wasn’t for that I would not have made so many new friends and been able to build new relationships with people I would have never had the pleasure of meeting had it not been here. Start your journey today and meet amazing people along the way! Try Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial today!
Thief of Joy
We have all heard the phrase growing up “comparison is the thief of joy”; and it still applies as an adult. You see, I have never truly been what others have considered to be athletically talented. Sure, I can pick up a game of volleyball or basketball, but I sure wasn’t going to be a Varsity starter! Except, I could have been if it weren’t for my own thoughts. You see, I was constantly comparing myself to others; peers, professional athletes, my coaches, etc. I was never perfect, therefore I wasn’t good at all. This stole every ounce of my joy and I have felt this throughout my journey at Aerial Dance as well. So now what? Comparison steals your joy, you have recognized it, and you are in a standstill. Stop, and take a minute to be mindful of your environment. As so many of my sisters have written before me, our studio is uplifting, empowering and helps you to embrace all of your strengths. It is so easy for us to see the beauty and power that each other holds, it is time to look in all of those mirrors, and see them in yourself as well. Easier said than done, I know. I thought about this a lot this term as my anxiety and self-doubt started to creep in, and I wanted to share a few tips that got me through. First of all, find a studio sister who can hype you up! Thankfully my best friend and I are able to take classes together so I have a built-in studio sister. I have also gained so many sisters throughout my journey, and lean on them when I am feeling down. Second, lean on your instructors! If you are feeling like you aren’t sure of a move due to confidence, skill level or memory, TELL THEM! They are here to help, and want to see you succeed. And last, be your own hype man! I started a playlist simply for my drive to class and it makes me feel like the queen I am! Sure, comparison can be the thief of joy, but there is so much the studio offers to support you through those struggles. Remember to utilize the relationships you have built in the studio with other students and your instructors! Rising above the need to compare yourself is tough, but you my dear, are so much stronger than that. Come be a part of a community! Try Intro to Pole or sign up for a Beginner Pole Term today!
Bonus Benefits of Aerial
I want to share my experience on unexpected benefits along my journey. When I started my journey with Aerial Dance I was shy and timid. It didn’t take long after I started to feel like like I belonged to a supportive family. I could see that this was a true sisterhood. I made friends quickly and I have connected with several of these girls on Facebook and other platforms. It’s nice to interact and get to know other adult women who share similar interests as me. My confidence levels rose quickly just from the girls I did pole with. Everyone is so supportive and kind. When you feel like you are not growing or getting anywhere with progress they are there to encourage and give pointers. We help each other, like a team. You can’t ask for a better support network. Aerial Dance has also helped me grow strength and confidence. Never did I imagine that I would be able to be as strong as I have become whilst doing pole. I remember the first time I saw I had triceps that popped. I was in a conditioning class with Instructor Olivia. She was working me hard because we were just one-on-one for that class. She was full of energy and pushing me to my fullest potential. I was on the ground doing some form of push-ups and she complimented my triceps. I got so excited I swear I felt invincible. After, I remember showing my family with a sense of accomplishment. I don’t know if I would have noticed without her pointing it out, but I am so grateful she did. I felt very proud and motivated. Thank you to all of the instructors for never giving up on us and always pushing us the way we need to be. Join our community and gain, strength, confidence, and meet amazing people along the way!Try Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial and see what classes are all about!
Women Lifting Up Women
For a lot of us Aerial Dance is a sanctuary. It is my happy place. It’s my me time. Time for me to get away from day to day stress from life and just enjoy myself. The women that run, instruct, and attend classes are some of the most uplifting and positive people I’ve ever met in my entire life. In my opinion, normal gyms are intimidating (I’m not trying to say gyms are bad, but I’ve learned that they are not for me). If you are like me, when I’d go to the gym I’d feel like people are judging me or shaming my body size. Aerial Dance is the exact opposite. I have never felt more accepted and comfortable working out in front of people. I’ve never had people cheer me on even for what I feel sometimes are the simplest things. Aerial Dance truly is a sanctuary for women. When you walk in the doors, you can feel the weight of the world melt away. You can lose yourself in the beauty of the aerial arts. Our instructors care so much about each one of us and they all work so much harder than we realize to keep us safe. They make sure they have new things to teach us. I feel beyond special when walking through the door. I feel like I belong. My self confidence can be quite lacking, but because of the uplifting and empowering environment I have become more confident in my body than I ever thought I could be. When I first started coming, I’d see the women working out in tiny shorts and a sports bra. I’d think to myself “there’s absolutely no way I’d ever do that. I’m too fat, my legs are gross, I have too much cellulite, stretch marks. My body just isn’t good enough for that!” I now wear the little booty shorts and sports bra. I’ve become so much happier in my own body even if it isn’t the media’s interpretation of beautiful. I AM beautiful and the women at Aerial Dance have helped me learn to love my body, even if they didn’t realize it. Join our sanctuary and celebrate what your body can do! Try a Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial class!
My Body is NOT My Offering
“Your body is not your offering.” Such a profound and truthful statement…found in the Aerial Dance bathroom. Prior to my membership at Aerial Dance, this thought had never occurred to me – rather I thought the exact opposite. It felt as though my body was my only offering. And having grown up feeling like my body didn’t look how it “should,” I felt as though I never had enough to offer. For reference, I grew up in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. This was a time where women such as Paris Hilton, the Olsen twins, and Mischa Barton ruled mainstream media and were celebrated for one thing – their thinness. I remember seeing critiques of other bodies (including women who had just pushed a tiny human out of their wombs) with headlines like “WHAT HAPPENED TO HER?!” Women with beautiful, strong bodies like P!nk were often called manly and not appealing to look at. This ideology has trickled into quite literally every decision I made as a teenager, and even makes its way into my life now. I felt that since I was always the chubby friend, that I had to go out of my way to make up for it in other ways. This meant that I always had excellent grades, and tried to make myself part of every organization at school. I always felt that if I was fat I had to have as many redeeming qualities as I could. This is absolute bullsh*t. Sorry, but it’s true. First of all, my body has done (and is continuing to do) incredible things. It survived near death as a literal infant. It has climbed mountains in Arizona, swam in oceans in Florida, survived COVID-19, and now allows me to suspend myself by nothing but fabrics hanging from the ceiling. Being a student at Aerial Dance has allowed me to see so many unfiltered, unedited bodies in real life and appreciate each and every one of them. Some of the strongest women I know have cellulite, and some of the thinnest women I know have stretch marks. All of the things that I once was indoctrinated to believe are flaws are completely arbitrary and meaningless. I now try to measure my body not by how it looks, or the numbers I see on the scale, but what incredible feats it accomplishes for me. Every. Single. Day. Come celebrate what your body can do! Try Intro to Pole or Intro to Aerial and start your journey!
