Balancing and Acrobatics is a traditional act performed on the ground.
Partners lift and balance each other in incredible poses, and use each others'
bodies to perform acrobatic feats. You don't need any prior aerial or acrobatics
experience to take these classes. You don't even need a partner - you'll work
with the instructor and other students in your class, always under close supervision
and with appropriate spotting and safety precautions.
Class Format
Classes are available as a group session of 75 minutes, with a maximum of 6 students. Class time
may be modified with fewer participants as appropriate for number of participants and physical
ability. Private classes can also be booked as a one hour lesson for one or two. Arrangements
for private classes can be made through the TSNY office.
What You'll Do in Class
In addition to balancing and acrobatics with a partner, classes include an active warm up with
stretching, strength conditioning, and flexibility training. Tips and strategies for continuing
your training at home will also be provided. Regardless of your background, you'll be able to
learn at your own pace and interest level.
Beginners will focus on proper body positions, muscle usage, basic partner positions, and basic
partner balances. More advanced students will progress to more difficult skills, including
intermediate to more advanced balances, mounts and pitches. Classes are structured so that
each student can work within their comfort zone.
Skills You Will Work On…
In basic partner balancing you will learn how to balance on your feet, shoulders and hands with
your partner laying, sitting and standing on the ground.
Ground Shoulder Stands
Thigh Stand Balance
Standing on Shoulders
Basic Handstand Balances
Students will work in pairs for most of the class. If a class is uneven, the instructor will step
in as a partner.
Classes will also include some basic gymnastics tumbling to improve body awareness like front/back
rolls, handstand rolls, back extensions, etc.
Be aware that in order for the class to run you will be required to base and/or be the flyer, which
means that you will need to be physically ready to do so. You should be able to hold/lift your own
weight. This class is recommended for people with active lifestyles.
What to Wear
Clothing that fits snugly but still allows for a full range of motion is best. Tights are good,
but not necessary. Shorts are recommended along with a tight-fitting top or t-shirt. Gymnastics
shoes or bare feet are suggested. Loose clothing that can slip and slide across your body will
make your balancing work more difficult and you’re sure to spend some time upside down during
class, so wearing a shirt that will fall over your head is not ideal. If you have long hair,
put it up with a rubber band and not plastic hair clips. Remember that you will be putting your
body in close proximity to other students, so good hygiene is expected. Please come to class
clean and keep fingernails and toenails neatly trimmed.
Photo credits: Lauren Goldberg, Zachary Stevens, and Rich Riggins
