Aerial silks is a fun, beautiful, empowering art form that combines athleticism, grace, and strength. From dazzling drops to elegant poses, it captivates audiences and practitioners alike. But for those new to the practice, the question must be asked: is aerial silks safe?
The honest answer is: it depends. Aerial silks can be safe when practiced under proper guidance, with appropriate equipment, and in a controlled environment. However, it is crucial to recognize that aerial silks comes with serious risks, including injury, paralysis, and death, and all of these have been recorded in this industry, even across experienced aerialists.
As an aerialist (or parent of an aerialist) you need to know what the risks are and how to evaluate for safety. NOT all studios/gyms are guaranteed to be safe.
Here's what you need to know to stay safe and enjoy your time in the air.
Safe Equipment and Rigging for Aerial Silks and other Aerial Arts
Using high-quality, well-maintained equipment is non-negotiable for aerial silks safety. This includes:
EQUIPMENT SHOULD NOT BE PURCHASED FROM AMAZON. Their safety regulations are not reliable.
Silks:Â made specifically for acrobatic use, and strength tested to be safe for 2000lbs minimium.
Rigging:Â Includes carabiners, swivels, spansets or other slings and rescue-8s. These should be rated for 2000lbs minimum, strength tested, made by a reputable company, and regularly inspected.
Anchor Points:Â Must be approved by a structural engineer and rated for 2000lbs+.
Trees are high risk
Unappraised structures are high risk
Decorative beams are high risk
Hooks drilled into a ceiling can quickly become lethal.
Crash Mats:Â Thick mats placed underneath your rigging can reduce the risk of serious injury during a fall. 6"+ is preferred, while 2-4" can be appropriate for shorter rigging.
Ladder: available on site to rescue a student if needed.
Professional Instruction
Note that there is no official certification process for aerial silks instructors, meaning that they have to be accountable for their own knowledge of skills and safety. Not all instructors are qualified, and there is not always a screening process.
A professional instructor will teach you:
Proper warm-up and conditioning exercises.
Foundational skills to build strength and flexibility.
TECHNIQUE to safely execute skills and maximize efficiency - avoiding strain on the lower back and neck in inversions in particular.
Safe methods for climbing, wrapping, and executing moves.
How to exit a movement safely if something goes wrong.
Building Strength and Technique Gradually
Aerial silks requires significant upper body and core strength. Beginners may feel tempted to try advanced tricks before their bodies are ready, increasing the risk of injury. A good program will focus on:
Progression:Â Starting with basic climbs, locks, and poses before moving to drops or dynamic movements.
Strength Training:Â Exercises like pull-ups, planks, and grip work will enhance your aerial foundations.
Controlled Repetition:Â Repeating foundational skills builds muscle memory and confidence in the air.
Understanding Risks
While aerial silks can be safe, it’s important to acknowledge its inherent risks. Common injuries include:
Burns:Â Fabric burns on hands, feet, or thighs from sliding or gripping the silks.
Overuse Injuries:Â Repetitive movements can strain muscles or joints over time.
Falls:Â These are rare with proper technique and safety measures but can happen if a wrap is executed incorrectly or grip fails.
To mitigate these risks:
Never practice without an experienced aerialist present.
Do not move quickly unless required for the execution - move slowly with control.
Double-check your wraps and rigging.
Avoid practicing when fatigued, as tired muscles increase the risk of errors.
Mental Preparedness
Aerial silks requires focus, patience, and confidence. Rushing or feeling pressured to perform beyond your skill level can lead to mistakes. Listen to your body, communicate with your instructor, and practice mindfulness to stay present during training.
Conclusion: Balancing Risk and Reward
Aerial silks is a safe and rewarding practice when approached responsibly. There is SO much you can do to evaluate the safety of a given instruction setting. By prioritizing professional instruction, proper equipment, and progressive training, you can enjoy the thrill of flying while minimizing risks. Like any art form, it takes time and dedication, but with the right foundation, aerial silks can become a source of joy, fitness, and creative expression.
If you're ready to take the leap (safely), consider signing up for a beginner class at a reputable studio near you. Remember, every aerialist starts on the ground, and with care and commitment, the sky’s the limit!
Follow @wakefulascentaerial on Instagram for more tips.
