How to Start Your Aerial Journey in Oxfordshire: Tips for First-Timers

Thinking about trying aerial for the first time? Welcome — you’re in exactly the right place (it’s what we do best). Whether you’re curious about pole fitness, aerial hoop (Lyra), or aerial silks, your first class at Aerial Arts Academy is designed to feel supportive, safe, and genuinely fun.

Starting something new can feel exciting and a bit nerve-wracking (totally normal). The good news: you don’t need to be “strong enough,” flexible, or confident before you begin. You start where you are, and we build from there — step by step, in a friendly community-first studio environment.

Below are my best first-timer tips to help you feel prepared, calm, and excited for your first class.

1) Choose the right first class (and don’t overthink it)

If you’re brand new, any beginner-friendly class is a great starting point — pole fitness, aerial hoop, or silks. The “best” choice is usually the one you’re most curious about. (Chances are, over time you’ll become an aerial addict and try all three!)

Pole fitness is brilliant for building strength, confidence, and body awareness.
Aerial hoop (Lyra) is supportive and fun, with lots of achievable shapes early on.
Aerial silks is dynamic and creative — you’ll learn foundations step-by-step.

If you’re unsure, pick the class that makes you think: “That looks SO cool.” Curiosity is a great compass.

2) Wear something you can move in (and that makes you feel good)

Comfort matters — but so does confidence. A simple go-to outfit is:

Leggings
A fitted top (so it doesn’t flip over)
Shorts under leggings if you’re doing pole

For aerial hoop/silks, leggings are usually perfect for your first class. Bring layers if you get cold — warming up is part of the process.

3) Arrive a little early and tell us you’re new

If it’s your first time, arriving 10 minutes early can make a huge difference. It gives you time to:

Find the studio
Meet your instructor
Ask questions
Settle your nerves

And please do tell us you’re new — we love first-timers. You won’t be the only one.

4) Eat and hydrate like a real human (not a superhero)

You don’t need a “perfect” routine — just avoid turning up on empty or overly full. A good rule of thumb:

Eat a light meal 1–2 hours before
Bring water
Avoid heavy meals right before class

If you’re prone to feeling dizzy, let your instructor know. We can pace things, offer modifications, and keep you feeling safe.

5) You’ll be welcomed from the moment you walk in

If you’re new, you won’t be thrown in at the deep end. We’ll talk you through what’s happening, introduce you to the equipment, and help you settle in straight away.

Your instructor will guide you step-by-step, and you’ll always have options — so you can move at your pace and leave feeling proud of what you’ve done (even in your very first class).

6) Focus on foundations — they’re what make the cool stuff possible

It’s tempting to jump straight to the Instagram moves (I get it). But the fastest way to progress is to build strong basics.

In your first few classes, you’ll usually work on:

Warm-ups and conditioning
Grip and body positioning
Simple shapes and transitions
Safe exits and technique

Those “basic” skills are the exact thing that makes you feel confident later.

7) Don’t compare yourself — compare yourself to you

Aerial attracts all sorts of people: different ages, backgrounds, strengths, and starting points.

Some people come in with dance experience. Some come in having never done a sport. Some are returning after having a baby. Some are rebuilding confidence after a tough year.

Your only job is to show up and take one step forward from where you are.

8) Ask for options (modifications are normal)

A good instructor will always have options. If something doesn’t feel right, you can ask:

“Is there an easier version?”
“Can you check my form?”
“Is there another way to do this today?”

Modifications aren’t a sign you’re failing — they’re how you train intelligently.

9) Celebrate the small wins (they add up fast)

Your first class win might be:

Learning a new grip or technique
Holding a shape for a second longer
Trying something you didn’t think you could do
Feeling less nervous by the end of class
Meeting someone lovely

These are real wins. Progress in aerial is built from tiny moments that stack.

10) Book your next class before you overthink it

The biggest “secret” to getting good at aerial is consistency. If you can, aim for:

1 class per week to build momentum
2 classes per week if you want faster progress

Your second class is often where confidence kicks in — because you already know what to expect.

Ready to start? Your first class is on us

If you’re local to Oxfordshire and you’ve been thinking about it for a while, take this as your sign.

Book your first class here: https://goteamup.com/p/3353560-aerial-arts-academy-oxfor/
Use code OAA1STFREE to get your first class free and come try pole fitness, aerial hoop (Lyra), or aerial silks in a supportive, welcoming studio.

If you’ve got questions before you book, message us — we’re happy to help you choose the right first class.

See you in the air,
Nicola & the AAA Team