Ask the Expert: The Circus Is Coming to Town!

Aerial silks are no longer just for the circus! If you’re looking for a new way to work out or just spice up your already existing workout regimen, we have your answer.

A total body workout, this circus-style training combines strength, endurance and agility unlike anything you’ll find in your local gym. The activity involves climbing two long ribbons of fabric, secured with a carabineer from a high ceiling, and performing tricks while off the ground. Although many beginner moves need not involve hovering more than a few inches above the floor, advanced aerialists can practice at heights of six meters or more.

You will begin with a complete stretch—flexibility helps tremendously in silk work, but it is not required. In addition, the silks will naturally stretch you in your practice time. We then move on to the silks for a climb to warm the shoulders and core. It requires a considerable amount of strength, coordination and balance to hold up one’s body weight, let alone move around while doing so. The remainder of the class is a combination of tricks and conditioning. Pulling oneself up off the ground, lifts, inversions, backbends, splits suspended in air and more. Classes are typically kept small so that each student is given personalized attention and work for their body and level.

Classes are really fun and always new! You don’t have to run away to the circus, just stop by Aerial Fitness in Riverhead to experience a little bit of the fun!

Saturday, June 30th at 6 p.m. Aerial Fitness will be holding an Aerial Performance for all to stop by and see. Experience silk in person and stay for an open house and to try the silks yourself. This is a Free Performance so Aerial Fitness is asking you to bring donations to be made to our local animal shelters. Canned or bagged dog food, blankets, treats and check donations will be greatly appreciated by our furry friends. Hope to see you there. Doors open at 5 p.m. Call (631) 591-3474 for more information.