Aerial and modern ‘Circus’ has only recently become a popular activity with the general public. And unlike other more established sports like gymnastics and figure skating, it does not have an established governing body. For example, poses and sequences will have different names depending on where you learned them. There are unique safety requirements for rigging, teaching and reducing the risk of injury.

I am not lobbying to establish an outside governing body. Instead I embrace a bottom up approach. As individuals; performers, teachers, studio owners and lifelong learners it is our personal responsibility to learn and share common sense best practices and ensure we teach and embody these high standards. This is why the Middle Tennessee Association of Circus Arts is so important. As a community we share knowledge and with an attitude of love and good will, we hold each other accountable to the highest professional and ethical standards.

If you are a dance studio considering adding aerial to your curriculum and you need guidance, please reach out to us and we will do our best to help connect you with the resources and information you need to conduct your activities safely.