The hip key rollup is a fun dynamic skill that highly depends on good technique. It's extremely common for aerialists to get stuck on this skill, but often it just takes a deeper understanding of the body position. INJURY PREVENTION: First we need to ask - is flexibility an issue? Make sure that you can reach your arms up by your ears, ideally slightly past. If you can't, this skill could be inaccessible to you or could cause injury if you try to force your shoulder past its natural range. If you are unable to expand your chest, you may also find it more challenging to execute this skill.
Start in the Knot:
Begin your journey into the hip key rollup by practicing in the knot. This starting point allows you to concentrate on body positioning without the worry of falling. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the knot, ensuring that you feel secure and centered before progressing to the next steps. Building a strong foundation in the knot sets the stage for a more confident and controlled performance.
Let's Fix the Starting Position:
A successful hip key rollup hinges on a really good setup. Prioritize mastering and holding this initial pose before delving into the rollup itself.
In the knot, your bottom leg should be forward, your top leg back (this is not true or even possible for in-air hip key rollups, except for horizontal hip key rollups in which you are holding the tail).
The top arm (the reaching arm) should be straight up by your ear. The lower arm should be pointed out to the side in the direction of your legs.
The chest should be lifting. Hunching forward eliminates the space you need to twist.
You should be in a c-shape (side bend).
Power: Use Your Hips:
Focus on how your top hip presses into the pole, creating the necessary momentum for the rollup. In the same moment, the other leg pushes back. The job of the torso is more so to maintain the right positions needed to allow space for the rollup, while the hips generate the actual force that rolls you up.
Keep Your Torso Out of the Way:
Avoid this common error! Instead of leaning back into the pole, allow your trunk to dip slightly forward toward the ground. I said SLIGHTLY! We don’t want you to faceplant. This subtle adjustment creates the space needed to smoothly wind around the pole during the rollup. It might feel scary, but you only need to do it a litttttle bit for it to work.
Look Where You Are Going:
Resist the urge to keep your eyes on the floor during the rollup. Instead, look up and turn your head with your body as you roll up. This might feel more scary than looking down but it actually enhances both safety and effectiveness. Yes, you do have to commit – this is a dynamic move.
Get the Full Hip Key Rollup Progression with Aerial Silks Online
There's no need to wait weeks to see if these tips work—get access to the complete, guided progression today and see the difference in your next session. Access my full technique outline for this skill and a complete step-by-step progression instantly. Join our Aerial Silks Online community today and get the full hip key roll-up progression so you can master this move faster and with more confidence. You’ll start from the knot, focus on the proper starting position, harness your hips for momentum, and maintain impeccable awareness of your body position and pathway. This platform is guaranteed to save you time, energy, and confusion, as I have laid it all out very clearly for you! PLUS you can message me with questions, including sending me videos! Scholarships are available for aerialists in need of financial support.
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