Discover Your Aerial Path: Recreational, Competitive, or Hobby

Is it Better to Practice Aerial Dance and Movement Arts Recreationally, Competitively, or Occasionally? Can you even DO aerial occasionally? ACK!!

Aerial dance and really all movement arts can be an exhilarating way to connect with your body, push your limits, and express yourself creatively. Whether you’re soaring high on fabrics,  spinning on the lyra, or practicing acro poses with a partner, aerial dance and movement arts offer a unique combination of strength, flow, and creativity. But how should you approach it? Is it better to practice recreationally, competitively, or occasionally? The answer depends on your goals and how you want to engage with the art form.

At Cloud Nine Aerial Arts, we offer opportunities for all levels—recreational dancers, competitive performers, and hobby-level (occasional) students. Let’s dive into the benefits and challenges of each path to help you decide which option is the best fit for you.

1. Recreational Aerial Dance: Fun, Freedom, and Fitness Without the Pressure

Recreational aerial dance is ideal for individuals looking to enjoy the art form casually, without the intense pressure of competition or rigid schedules. Whether you’re attending weekly classes or joining in a fun aerial fitness workshop, recreational aerial dance focuses on personal enjoyment, fitness, and building confidence. 

Benefits of Recreational Aerial Dance:

• Fun and Enjoyment: The primary focus of recreational aerial is to have fun! You can challenge yourself to learn new skills and explore the art form at your own pace, all while enjoying the process.

• Physical and Mental Benefits: Regular participation in recreational aerial dance and aerial fitness helps improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. It also provides a great way to relieve stress, boost mental well-being, and increase overall health.

• Social Opportunities: Many recreational students find that attending classes and workshops is a fantastic way to meet others who share the same interest. You get to learn and socialize in a supportive, non-competitive environment.

• Flexibility in Schedule: As a recreational aerialist, you can choose how often to practice. There are no rigid performance expectations, so you can enjoy aerials on your own terms without the commitment that comes with competition.

Challenges:

• Limited Skill Progression: Without the structure of competition or advanced training, you may find that your progress slows down as you’re not consistently pushing your limits.

• Less Discipline: While recreational practice is fun, it can sometimes lack the structured approach needed for rapid skill development and mastery of advanced techniques.

2. Competitive Aerial Dance: Achieve Mastery, Challenge Yourself, and Gain Recognition

For those who are passionate about taking their aerial to the next level, competitive aerial arts provides a structured and goal-driven environment. Competing in aerial competitions or performing professionally in front of an audience requires intense dedication, discipline, and focus on perfecting technique. At Cloud Nine Aerial Arts, we offer competitive training programs to help students develop their skills and prepare for performances and competitions, giving them the opportunity to gain recognition and build a strong stage presence.

Benefits of Competitive Aerial Dance and Movement Arts:

• Focused Skill Development: Competitive aerialists undergo rigorous training, refining their techniques and expanding their abilities. The structured environment helps you push past your limits and develop a high level of mastery.

• Sense of Achievement and Recognition: Success in competitions or performances brings a powerful sense of accomplishment. The effort and commitment you put into your training is often rewarded with recognition, whether you win medals or simply improve your performance.

• Community and Support: Competitive aerialists become part of a supportive team. Training together fosters camaraderie, with students motivating each other and working toward shared goals.

• Discipline and Personal Growth: The discipline required for competitive aerial translates into personal growth, teaching you time management, perseverance, and the importance of consistency.

Challenges:

• Pressure and Stress: Competitive aerialists face the pressure to perform at their best, which can create stress or anxiety, especially leading up to events. At Cloud Nine Aerial Arts we always want to make sure that fun and friendship are at the center of our competitive team. As my friend Jen says, “if you’re not making friends and having fun, you’re doing it wrong.”

• Time Commitment: Competitive training requires a significant time investment. Students typically train multiple times a week, which can interfere with other activities and personal commitments.

3. Hobby-Level Aerial Dance and Movement Arts: Casual and Enjoyable Without the Regular Commitment

At Cloud Nine Aerial Arts, we also welcome hobby-level students, or those who want to engage in aerial dance in a more relaxed, laid-back way. This option is ideal for people who love the idea of flying through the air but don’t have the time or desire to commit to a regular training schedule. Whether it’s through occasional workshops, fitness classes, or just taking a class every now and then, hobby-level students can still enjoy the benefits of aerial dance and aerial fitness without any real time commitment or performance expectations. 

Benefits of Hobby-Level Aerial Dance and Movement Arts:

• No Pressure or Expectations: Hobby-level students enjoy the freedom to try new things and explore aerial arts. It’s a great way to have fun while gaining physical benefits!

• Social and Stress-Free: These students often participate in group classes where the focus is more on socializing and enjoying the moment. It’s the perfect way to let loose and relieve stress in a fun, relaxed environment.

• Occasional Fitness Benefits: Even if you don’t practice regularly, you’ll still experience the health benefits of aerial arts, including increased strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It's an accessible way to stay active without the long-term commitment.

Challenges:

• Slower Progress: Because hobby-level students practice infrequently, skill development can be much slower. Advanced tricks or techniques may be harder to achieve without regular practice.

• Less Consistency: Without regular training, it may be difficult to maintain and improve strength or flexibility, meaning hobby-level students may find it challenging to build upon their previous skills.

Why Choose Cloud Nine Aerial Arts?

At Cloud Nine Aerial Arts in Lee’s Summit, MO, we’re proud to offer something for everyone—whether you’re interested in recreational aerial dance, competitive performance, or simply taking a class as a hobbyist. Our studio offers classes for all levels, so whether you're a beginner just getting started or an experienced aerialist aiming to compete, you’ll find a supportive community and the tools you need to thrive. We offer flexible class schedules, expert instructors, and a welcoming environment to help you achieve your goals—no matter which path you choose.