Which Aerial Apparatus Is Right for You?

Let’s Soar, Swing, and Spin Into the World of Aerial Arts!

So. Hey. You’ve seen aerial artists defy gravity on Instagram, or maybe you’ve been captivated by the graceful aerialists in Cirque du Soleil, and now you’re thinking: "That looks amazing! I want in." And rightfully so—because there’s nothing quite like the thrill of flying through the air, flipping, twisting, and hanging upside down.

But wait! – The aerial world is vast, and there are several ways to get your feet off the ground. So, how do you decide which aerial apparatus is the one for you? Fear not, aspiring aerialist! We’ve broken down the most popular apparatuses with a little flair, humor, and a lot of enthusiasm to help you make the right choice for your flying adventure.

1. Aerial Silks: The Dramatic Diva of Aerial Arts

If you’ve ever watched an aerialist wrap themselves in vibrant silk fabric, climb to the heavens, and then descend in a graceful drop, you’ve witnessed the magic of aerial silks. It’s the most “classic” and recognizable form of aerial work, beloved by many for its dramatic flair. Think of it like a cross between a floor-less dance class and a Broadway musical, with a dash of superhero.

Who should try it? If you’re a fan of climbing, wrapping, and performing daring drops, silks are your best friend. Silks puts all the control in your own little hands, there is nothing up there but you and your fabric working together to make magic happen. Aerial silks demands strength, flexibility, and an affinity for a bit of drama. If you're ready to work your core like never before and learn a few eye-catching tricks (hello, ankle drops), then silks could be your perfect match. Just be prepared—there’s a lot of math and muscle along the way but once you master the basics, you'll feel like an aerial star.

Pro Tip: Start with your upper body strength, as silks involve a lot of pulling yourself up and holding positions. But don't worry, you'll build that strength fast!

Does it hurt?: yes.

2. Aerial Hoop (Lyra): The Majestic Steel Wheel

If silks are the drama queen of aerial, then the aerial hoop (also known as lyra) is its elegant, poised cousin. Imagine a large metal ring hanging from the ceiling, and you’re swinging, spinning, and balancing within it with the poise of a trapeze artist crossed with a ballerina. Aerial hoop offers an elegant yet powerful performance, where you’re a swan one moment and a warrior the next. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the idea of working with an apparatus that feels both delicate and strong.

Who should try it? If you're the type who loves circus acts, smooth spins, and graceful transitions, lyra is made for you. Think of it as an elegant workout for both strength and flexibility, with a touch of acrobatics thrown in. The hoop is also great if you’re the kind of person who loves having a “center” (the hoop itself) to work with rather than constantly wrapping or dangling. Plus, you’ll look majestic while you spin, and who doesn’t want to look like a graceful goddess in mid-air?

Pro Tip: It’s a great starting point for those who have some prior strength training, but it's still accessible for beginners. Many studios can start lyra work very low and slow, giving beginners a chance to be beautiful and fancy while being supported by the bar and the nearby floor. 

Does it hurt?: yes.

3. Aerial Hammock: The Comfort Seeker’s Choice

Picture this: a cozy hammock floating in the air, gently swaying as you stretch, twist, and practice inverted poses. The aerial hammock is the laid-back cousin of silks, offering a more relaxed, supported way to get into aerial arts. While it still allows for graceful movements and inversions, the hammock offers more stability and comfort—perfect for those who like a little support while they learn.

Who should try it? Aerial hammock is perfect for anyone who wants a less intense introduction to aerial arts. It’s a great apparatus for those who are more interested in learning flowing combinations than showing off strong-human skills and daring drops (that comes later).

Pro Tip: If you want to progress in vocabulary and artistry faster and let strength and flexibility grow at a different pace, you might want to start with hammock. It’s also perfect for inversions without the intensity of silks, because the fabric does some of the work for you; you can ease into the aerial world at your own pace.

Does it hurt? yes.

4. Trapeze: The OG Circus Toy

The trapeze (aka ouchie hammock) is the one that started it all—the granddaddy of aerial apparatuses. Whether you’re doing static trapeze (staying in one place) or dance trapeze (twirling around a single point), this classic apparatus is about thrill and precision. The trapeze has been around for centuries, and if it was good enough for those daring, old-timey circus performers, it’s good enough for you!

Who should try it? If you’re someone who loves the thrill of being high off the ground, wrapping yourself around the bar and the ropes around yourself, the trapeze is calling your name. Whether you're into gymnastic moves, daring drops, or just spinning high and fast, trapeze offers that exciting rush.

Pro Tip: Trapeze is so simple it’s complicated. Just a couple of ropes and a bar offers endless possibilities. 

Does it hurt? yes.

5. Rope (Corde Lisse): The Vertical Climber’s Dream

Here’s where we venture into the world of pure vertical climbing glory: the rope or corde lisse. This apparatus involves a simple yet powerful concept—just you and a rope. With no fabric or hoops to cling to, the rope is the aerialist’s equivalent of rock climbing in the air. You’ll ascend, descend, and twist yourself around the rope in ways that require strength, flexibility, and the ability to control your body in space. The beauty of rope is its simplicity—it’s just you and the rope, but it’s also one of the most challenging aerial forms out there.

Who should try it? If you’re someone who loves a challenge and wants to really build strength through climbing and gripping, corde lisse is for you. This apparatus is perfect for athletes, rock climbers, and anyone who wants to feel like they’re on top of the world, quite literally!

Pro Tip: Rope work requires serious core and upper body strength, and the learning curve can be steep. But if you enjoy a challenge, mastering rope will give you a satisfying sense of accomplishment—and some serious muscles to show for it.

Does it hurt? yes.

6. Aerial Straps: The Ultimate Strength Test

Strap in, because this one is intense. Aerial straps are the ultimate test of strength and stamina. You’ll use two straps, hang from them, and perform feats of strength that are so impressive you’ll leave your audience (and yourself) in awe. The apparatus involves suspension using the straps, and you'll be doing everything from flips to bodyweight strength exercises while staying suspended in mid-air.

Who should try it? If you’ve got a passion for strength training and love the challenge of pulling your own body weight (literally), this one is for you. It’s perfect for athletes or people with a background in calisthenics who are looking to combine their strength with aerial movements. Think of it like an advanced level of aerial arts, where the focus is more on power and control.

Pro Tip: You’ll need a lot of upper body and core strength, so if you’re a beginner, you might want to wait until you build some serious strength or start training with a supportive aerial instructor.

Does it hurt? yes.

So, Which Aerial Apparatus Is Right for You?

ALL OF THEM!!

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all comes down to what excites you the most. Do you want the dramatic climbs and drops of silks? The graceful spins of lyra? The cozy hammock stretches or the intense strength training of straps? Or are you ready to conquer the vertical challenge of rope?

Whatever you choose, remember: aerial arts are all about having fun, exploring your strength, and embracing the thrill of being up in the air. So take your pick, and start your aerial journey—you’re bound to have a blast, whether you're spinning like a graceful dancer, climbing to new heights, or soaring through the air like a circus pro. Happy flying!