Sometimes when talking to people about aerial arts, they’ll tell us that they don’t think they would be able to do the sport. They say they think they are too old, or too out of shape, or something else is holding them back. We here at Fly Circus believe that circus can be for everyone no matter where you are starting from! We know this because some of our coaches have had quite the journey themselves. Coach Amy shares what it was like for her to start her aerial path:
“When I found aerial, I was in rough shape to say the least. I hadn't had any form of exercise in 22 years, I'd had 7 surgeries in the 2 years prior (including back surgery), and I had 2 bad knees that have since been replaced. To add to that, I was overweight and felt like I was too old to start something like this (39 years old at the time). I had zero core strength, upper body strength, or flexibility. Despite all of that, I wanted to try it because it looked fun.
I fell in love with the silks instantly. I found those first few months to be extremely challenging, but that was masked by the great time I was having. My classmates and instructors supported and motivated me, and they gave me my confidence and self-esteem back through their constant encouragement. They taught me how to love myself again... something I had long ago forgotten. I began growing physically, mentally, and emotionally. I felt myself getting stronger and noticed that I was finally beginning to be able to do some really neat things!
As time went on, people took notice of my weight loss and wanted to know what my secret was. Aerial!!!! I never changed my eating habits or my diet. I just got off the couch one day and showed up to class. I lost 60 lbs. over the course of those first 8 months, all while building strength and muscle. I gained an aerial family, a feeling of self-worth, accomplishment, pride.... the list goes on and on. It's been 8 years since I took that first class. I'm in the best shape of my life and doing things I never thought my body would allow me to. I truly feel that aerial saved my life in so many ways and my passion for it continues to grow daily.
To anyone who thinks aerial isn't for them because they're too old, they weigh too much, they're not flexible, strong or graceful enough, etc... know that I was once in your shoes and while I understand all of those excuses, they're just that: Excuses. And they WILL hold you back if you let them. I chose to ignore the excuses and try it anyway, and that's when I began living. I encourage all of you to do the same! Step out of your comfort zone. Try something new, fun, and exciting! It's an amazing feeling to believe in yourself!”
Aerial arts can have some incredible results, internally and externally! We hope that Amy’s story inspires you to try something new for yourself or to take the leap into aerial dance. Your body is capable of amazing things!
Written by Coach Mandie & Coach Amy
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