Pole dancing and aerial arts have gained popularity in recent years, offering a dynamic and empowering way to express oneself through movement. These captivating forms of fitness combine strength, flexibility, and artistry to create breathtaking performances. If you’re new to the world of pole, aerial, silks, and other aerial arts, you may be curious about the different apparatus used in these disciplines. In this blog post, we’ll explore various apparatus commonly used in pole, aerial, and silks, and discover the unique qualities and experiences they offer.
1. Pole Dance:
Pole dance is a mesmerizing art form that combines dance, acrobatics, and strength training. The primary apparatus used in pole dance is, of course, the vertical pole. The pole itself can vary in material, such as chrome, brass, or stainless steel, and in diameter, typically ranging from 45mm to 50mm. The surface of the pole provides grip, allowing dancers to perform spins, holds, inversions, and dynamic tricks. Pole dance can be performed on both static (stationary) poles and spinning poles, each offering its own unique challenges and possibilities for movement.
2. Aerial Silks/Tissu:
Aerial silks, also known as aerial tissu or fabric, are long pieces of soft, flowing fabric that hang from a rigging point. The performer uses the fabric to wrap, twist, and suspend their body, creating stunning poses and dynamic movements. Aerial silks require a combination of strength, flexibility, and grace. The fabric is typically made of strong and durable materials, such as nylon or polyester, to withstand the tension and forces applied during performances. Aerial silks provide endless possibilities for creativity and expression, as performers can climb, spin, and create shapes in the air.
3. Aerial Hoop/Lyra:
Aerial hoop, also known as lyra, is a circular apparatus made of metal or steel that is suspended from a rigging point. The performer uses the hoop to execute breathtaking poses, transitions, and dynamic movements. Aerial hoop requires strength, flexibility, and control, as performers move in and out of the hoop, hang from various positions, and create captivating shapes. The size of the hoop can vary, typically ranging from 24 inches to 40 inches in diameter, offering different challenges and opportunities for movement based on the performer’s skill level and style.
4. Pole Hammock/Sling:
Pole hammock, also known as pole sling or aerial hammock, is a long, stretchy fabric that is attached to a vertical pole. The performer uses the fabric to support and suspend their body, allowing for a combination of aerial acrobatics, dance, and yoga-inspired movements. Pole hammock provides a unique blend of strength, flexibility, and aerial grace. The fabric can be adjusted to different lengths, allowing performers to explore inversions, poses, and dynamic movements both inside and outside of the fabric.
5. Aerial Straps:
Aerial straps consist of two strong and adjustable straps made of webbing or fabric. The performer uses the straps to suspend and manipulate their body, creating impressive displays of strength and control. Aerial straps require significant upper body and core strength, as performers execute various holds, poses, and dynamic movements while working with the resistance and tension of the straps. The straps can be adjusted to different lengths, providing versatility and opportunities for creative expression.
6. Aerial Rope/Corde Lisse:
Aerial rope, also known as corde lisse, is a thick and sturdy rope that hangs from a rigging point. The performer uses the rope to climb, wrap, and suspend their body, showcasing strength, flexibility, and coordination. Aerial rope requires a combination of upper body and core strength, as well as the ability to grip the rope securely during various poses, drops, and dynamic sequences. The texture and thickness of the rope provide a unique challenge and aesthetic appeal to performances.
Exploring different apparatus for pole, aerial, silks, and other aerial arts opens up a world of possibilities for movement, creativity, and self-expression. Whether you’re drawn to the sensuality of pole dance, the grace of aerial silks, or the strength of aerial straps, each apparatus offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Embrace the opportunity to unleash your inner aerialist and discover the joy and empowerment that comes with defying gravity and creating art in the air.
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