Am I Strong Enough for Aerial Silks?
Am I Too Old?
Will Aerial Hoop Hurt Too Much?
Starting a new activity can feel super intimidating, ether you’re 5 or 50. But guess what? Feeling intimidated is totally normal! We’re often scared of the unknown because familiar things feel safe and comfy. Raise your hand if you’ve ever quit something before you even started because sticking with the boring (but less scary) option felt easier.
Here’s a story: I had a new adult aerial student come in for a Discovery Session recently. She told me she’d had our website open on her computer for TWO years—seven hundred and thirty days! Fear almost won, but somehow, she took that first step anyway. Now? She’s amazing herself left and right.
The truth is, starting something new takes courage. But trust me, the rewards make that first step so worth it.
Why Try Something New as an Adult?
Remember all the activities and hobbies we loved as kids? Somewhere along the way, we got sucked into “adulting”—packed with have-tos and fewer want-tos. Sound familiar? You’re clicking a mouse, setting timers, logging in and out, and wondering:
“Where do adults even make new friends?”
Uh… probably not in your kitchen, car, or cubicle, Deena. (Sorry, Deena. We love you and your rescue chihuahuas.)
Having hobbies outside of work and home can make a huge difference in your mood, health, and happiness. Aerial arts (or any new activity) can bring joy and fulfillment you didn’t even know you were missing.
Why You Should Give Aerial (or Any Hobby) a Try
1. You’ll Be a More Interesting Person
Picture this: You’re sitting at a table of strangers, tasked by some way-too-perky person to "Tell us your name and a fun fact about you???!!!!"
How cool would it be to say, “I just performed in my first aerial showcase!” instead of “I, uh, really like coffee.”
Taking risks and trying new things makes you memorable. Think about the most interesting people you’ve met—they’re usually the ones who explore passions outside the 9-to-5 grind.
2. You’ll Build Courage and Resilience
Trying something new boosts your confidence, no matter the outcome. It’s not about becoming a touring aerialist with your favorite pop star (though, how cool would that be?). It’s about proving to yourself that you can try hard, scary, and exciting things.
Every time you try, it gets easier. You might even start looking forward to new adventures! And trust me, few activities build confidence like starting aerial silks as an adult.
3. It Opens Doors to New Adventures
Starting a new activity connects you with new people, opportunities, and passions. I’ve seen students discover unexpected interests (like textile crafts!), lifelong friendships, new roommates, and even whole career changes—all because they gave aerial arts a shot.
Once you start, the courage to try more new things snowballs. Imagine how full and exciting your life could be if you got out of your own way!
4. You’ll Find a Passion That Changes You
Exploring something new could lead you to an activity that feels like it’s meant for you. Aerial changed my life—it reshaped my goals, how I view success, how I treat my body, and even how I look.
I’ve seen students transform after just a few months. They go from “trying out aerial” to fully embracing it as something they do. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. But for some, it becomes a life-changing journey.
How to Take the First Step
Knowing the benefits doesn’t always make it easier to start, right? That little voice in your head can still talk you out of it. So here are some strategies to help you get moving:
1. Close Your Eyes and Leap
Sometimes, you just need to take the plunge. Push the button. Sign up for the class. Heck, ask a friend or partner to do it for you if you’re stuck in the “scared zone.”
2. Do Your Homework
Not all studios are the same. Look up studios in your area—check their websites, Instagram pages, and FAQ sections. Think about what you want: private, small or large classes, adults-only, mixed levels, or something regimented or quirky.
Find a studio that feels like a good fit, and email them if you have questions. Many studios offer drop-in classes or private sessions, so you can dip your toes in without committing.
3. Give Yourself a Contingency Plan
This isn’t marriage—it’s just a class. Tell yourself, “If I don’t like it, I don’t have to go back.” You’re not stuck. Testing the waters doesn’t mean you’ve failed if it’s not your thing.
If you want to be extra adventurous, try multiple studios or activities and see what sticks!
Whatever you need to do to take that first step, do it. The benefits far outweigh the risks. Plus, you’re bound to become the healthiest, coolest, and most badass version of yourself along the way.
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