Home Hammock Information / For Sale

We appreciate your support, especially during COIVD. Yes cross training during this time is great, Do you miss your aerial? This might be an option for you.

We only sell commercial grade equipment that has been tested for adequate strength and safety. We offer a foundation guide, hanging and tying options, and can lessons with your hammock set, to make sure you can practice and use your hammock safely at home. We will also go over tying methods and why we pick the one we use. For example: Tying silks directly into a carabiner can over load it, which is one reason why we use a sling knot variation in between our silks and carabiners. This also makes ease of washing and rehanging a less time consuming process. Yes, cheaper ones can be found on amazon, but they do not come with load testing, or local personal attention. We appreciate your support.

These hammock are a shorter length for home ceiling approx 7.5 to 9 feet high, so they are cut a couple of feet shorter to lessen the length of the tail.  Hammock colors in stock can be shipped right away.  Ordering another color that is not on the list or out of stock is approx. 5 to 10 days.  If you have higher than 9 ft ceiling cost of hammocks will go up slightly to accommodate for the extra fabric length and / or daisy chain.  All hammock sets are complete and ready to hang. Installation hardware to install at your home, NOT included.  It is recommended to take a few classes or private lessons to learn how to safely set up and use your hammock at home.  We can also offer this as part of your package.

Pricing NEW Hammock set is $200.00 for the set, foundation guide, sugesstions,silks carabiners, and climbing gear to attach to your rig point. $50-150 for pre-owned sets. Add $20.00 for shipping out of state.  Also extra 20.00 for special order colors or lengths not listed.   Special orders are prepaid and not returnable in most cases. 

Contact us for questions.

NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE VIDEOS TO USE YOUR HAMMOCK SAFELY AND/OR TAKE A CLASS FROM HOME.

Standard colors available. Other trendy colors are available upon request, but sometimes in limited QTY. Send your color request and we will tell you what we have in stock.

These are the versatile double point attachments, Per Hammock, space between attachment points are best spaced  from 16" to 24" apart. Though you can put a hammock anywhere if you have a space about 6ft wide and 8ft front to back - this will make it more versatile with what you can do. These can be hung from 18” inches to about hip height in a lower ceiling allowing for versatility in a lower space. Did you know we specialize in getting the most out of our low ceilings?

Once you have your hammock, the knots are loose so you can adjust to your ceiling them before you cinch them down.  

The purchase and use of aerial hammock is at your own risk. Installation is done at your own risk.  Make sure to inspect your equipment and knotting every couple of months. Some colors of the fabric might fade in sunlight, but this will not effect the strength of the fabric.  

*content is updated as needed.

NOTE: WE ARE NOT RIGGERS. To prevent injury HOME RIGGING should be done by a license building professional. Or purchase a home A frame stand. We cannot recommend how to do any type of rigging or installations as we are not building professionals.

Aerial Body Talk

Zina's Aerialosophy  (get it aerial + philosophy) 

Aerial Body Talk

March 2021

How fun is circus fitness?  Yes, that is what we call it.  You may have started with an aerial yoga style class but after your first few classes (If you decide you want something different) we pretty much leave that aerial stretch/yoga style of training, and introduce you to Aerial Fitness or Circus style fitness. Just saying you have options.

Fitness in general is always a journey, the great thing about aerial fitness or circus style fitness, being able to use an apparatus (silks, aerial hoop, bungee) allows so many different sizes and shapes.  I love seeing all kinds of ages being in classes together,  just enjoying something that we all love so much.  It is a rare find to be bonded by such a cool activity that bonds us together.  

We offer different styles of classes so we can meet people where they are at.  Whether it is stretching and flexibility, strengthening, adding acrobatic elements or bouncing in the bungee. We all have different goals and reasons why we're here.   Different body shapes and sizes make some moves easier and some more challenging.  One of the most important things for any style of aerial we want to be involved in, is that we have strong and stable joints for our aerial activities.  So stay tuned next month for the continuing article on how we keep our joints stable and what forces can affect our joint strength and stability.

Teacher Tidbits Corner - Laura Rafferty

Teacher Tidbits Corner - Laura Rafferty

 Dec 2021

Showcase Reflections 

There's a great quote that says, "If you want to know where your heart is, look where your mind goes when it wanders." For me, when I daydream or right before I fall asleep, I am always thinking about how to string together hammock or lyra poses to make different flows. Zina knows what I'm talking about! After telling her about my aerial nerdiness last year after completing my level 3 test out, I think I said, "If you need another teacher to help choreograph for the showcase, I would love to try it." Fast forward months later and Zina asked me if I wanted to choreograph the Hammock Level 2/3 piece. I had never choreographed anything before in my life and was really honored that she trusted me to do it. Thank you, Zina for giving me this opportunity and for all your guidance along the way! It was more challenging than I thought it would be, but I loved every minute of it and learned a lot. Here are 10 things I learned from my first choreography experience...

10) Timing is really important. Like, really, really important. If the timing is off, it can make it look like everyone just decided to freestyle their own routine.

9)  You believe in your group and see their potential even when they are frustrated - we should all feel that way about ourselves too.

8)  It is okay to stop the music and say, "What was that?!" As long as they think you are kidding, it still gets in their heads a little and helps them focus.

7)  There is a magical practice that happens and makes you feel like everything is gonna be alright.

6)  Unfortunately, that magical practice happens much later than you hoped.

5)  There's also a practice that makes you feel like you wanna walk to the bar next door and become a regular.

4) You become so proud of your group and all their hard work, and when they nail it in the final performance, you feel like they are your children and just graduated high school.

3)  Videos during practices are extremely helpful in seeing the "big picture"...and also helpful to point out their mistakes..mistakes that are sometimes being made over and over again. Of course, say it very nicely and follow it with, "You got this!" They won't know you really wanna pull your hair out.

2) Choreographers also can get nervous when filming the final performance.

1) Everyone should always carry confetti in their pocket at all times, just in case the moment should arise.

Take a Breath

Zina's Aerialosophy 
(get it aerial + philosophy) 

DECEMBER 2021

It's our holiday month… we have so much to do, so many places to be, including on our apparatus. First I'd like to take a moment and thank you for being a part of our studio family!  I'm so thankful for the teachers using their God given talents and gifts,  for the students who create this amazing community,  and for my husband of excellence who makes it possible for me to live my passion and help people with movement and aerial everyday.

This is a season to stop and take a breath!   Deep breathing is so important for relaxation response for the nervous system,  brain health, and movement quality.  It helps us process mentally better, it helps us move better, it helps us rest, digest and repair better.  I've learned so much this past year on breathing from Dr. Arianne Missimer that I have to pass it on. 

You have also heard me talk about the core as a cube.  There's a great 3D animation on anatomy and I love this word picture -   the core as a cube - meaning it has a front and back, two sides, and a top and a bottom.  The top and the bottom are especially important when it comes to breathing. For a couple examples:  if we only activate the top (super tense and not relaxed) and not the bottom,  we can have core compensations.   If we only activate the front and not the back we can't support the spine as well, and if we don't know how to activate the sides  we lack breathing options and mobility. 

So for this holiday season stop and take a breath whether it's before you eat, whether it is before class, whether it's before you're frustrated on a shape or flow you are trying to get,  stop and take a breath!

Sometimes when we're feeling anxious (for whatever reason), stop and take a moment,  breathe.  Stopping to take a breath can help you decide the next course of action in a better frame of mind.   You've got this!

 P.s.  Be on the look for our Aerial Fun Christmas card coming out called “The Shapes of Christmas”. 

You do you, each day!

     I celebrate you!  Zina    

Student of the Month - Shanua Waltz -Dec 2021

Student of the Month

Shauna Waltz
Dec 2021


When did you start at the studio?  I started aerial fitness in march 2021. 

Why did you start?   I started to help cope with my anxiety.

What made you come back and stick with it?  I came back to aerial, because it was fun, different, and I felt like it came naturally to me.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness?  To someone just starting aerial fitness, I would tell them you don't always get everything on the first try, but you just have to keep trying and pushing through even when you feel like giving up.

What have been some of your challenges?   My biggest challenge has been wanting to let my anxiety get the best of me when not getting everything on my first try.  It's been a challenge to continue wanting to try things, so I could keep moving forward.

What apparatuses do you train on in the studio?  Aerial Hammock

Your favorite pose(s) and why do you like it?  My favorite pose is inverted manta ray.  It's my favorite pose, because it's pretty, and on my first couple tries, I could not figure out how to invert, so now being able to do it, is a big accomplishment for me.

One word that defines you?  Motivated

What path would you like aerial to take for you?  I want to keep doing aerial to get really good at it, and maybe even teach it. and that way it can help people the way it helped me.

 

Student of the Month - Alicia Rivera - Nov 2021

Student of the Month
Alicia Rivera
Nov 2021

When did you start at the studio? October 2018

Why did you start? My sister had bought me a gift certificate to attend an aerial yoga class at a different location.  I attended with a friend and instantly fell in love.  Sadly, that studio was too far for me to attend on a regular basis.  Fast forward, a year goes by, and a coworker was telling me how she went to an aerial yoga studio locally.  I instantly signed up and have been attending ever since.  

What made you come back and stick with it? I already knew before I visited AFF that I wanted to pursue Aerial Yoga; however, when I observed the positive, inviting, and uplifting environment in which all of this takes place, I knew this was the place for me.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? Do not get discouraged when you fail.  It is those experiences that help us evolve and improve our skills. I also encourage others not to compare yourself to others.  Everyone comes in at varying levels of fitness and different type of fitness backgrounds which puts everyone on a different pace.  I am not super competitive, so I already had the mentality that the only person I am in competition with in this space is myself, and they preach this from day one.  I'd also mention that, while it's fun to try different apparatuses, when you find one you like, stick with it, because if your goal is to advance to some of the higher-level moves/activities, consistent practice is how it's going to happen. 

What have been some of your challenges? In general, I am not a flexible person, and while I have definitely gained flexibility since starting, this is something that I think will always be a challenge for me.  The good news is more times than less there are ways for you to overcome any hurdle, and sometimes it just takes time.  

What apparatuses do you train on in the studio? I have the most practice with hammock; however, I have tried bungee, and I did entertain Lyra for a bit (surprisingly to me I loved it)!  Unfortunately, I found I didn't have the core/upper body strength to practice without developing overuse injuries to my hands so I paused and will revisit when I get stronger.

Your favorite pose(s) and why do you like it?  Seahorse was probably my first favorite pose because it is a challenging climb in which a lot of the things need to happen at the same time.  It was also the first pose that I found despite my lack of flexibility (which made it more challenging), I was still able to accomplish it. Anything acrobatic!  I LOVE to do a variety of flips and LOVE being inverted.  

One word that defines you? Determined

What path would you like aerial to take for you? If my life would ever allow it, I would definitely entertain teaching.  Often throughout my adulthood I've been told I am a good teacher and I think it would be fun to teach others in such a fun, uplifting, and rewarding environment.  In class I get so excited when classmates nail that one move that they've been trying so hard to achieve and to be a part of that process would be beyond rewarding for me.

Showcase Time Nov 2021 Tips

Zina's Aerialosophy 
(get it aerial + philosophy) 

Nov 2021

It is showcase time....  Ann Marie summed this up so well.  Performers remember to breathe and as Kelsey would say "if you mess up, mess up with confidence".  My favorite part is how all these different types of people come together.  I love watching all this happen.  So proud of the teachers for inspiring students, students working together as a team, and all of this coming together to create our version of Aerial ART!    

On another note so excited we were featured on MY Fitness RX with Tanya Stroh.  Our segment begins at 14:25.



You do you, each day!

     I celebrate you!  Zina    

Teacher Tidbits Corner - Ann Marie Savini

Teacher Tidbits Corner - Ann Marie Savini

Nov 2021

It’s Showcase Time!

Here at Aerial Fun and Fitness we offer students an opportunity to show off what they have learned.  Our annual Student Showcase allows students to express themselves using the skills that they have learned in our aerial fitness classes.

During class, our students learn many poses that increase their strength, flexibility and improve their balance. The poses are often woven together to form flows which are not only fun but help the students to understand how to transition from one pose to another.  So what does this have to do with our annual Student Showcase?  Well, in our Showcase we put together several flows to music so that our students can participate in an “aerial dance”.   

All students are welcome to join our Showcase regardless of ability. Everyone has something that they can contribute whether they are a beginner or an experienced student.  We work with each student so that they can be proud of their performance.

We rehearse for several weeks prior to the Showcase.  It is hard work but a lot of fun!  It is really inspiring to see it all come together.  After the first couple rehearsals, you wonder if you are ever going to be able to memorize the routine.  And then there are changes to the routine along the way.  But somehow by the last couple rehearsals, everything seems to come together.  It is so rewarding to see the final result. In addition to participating in the Showcase routines, you get to know the other students in a way that you would never get to know them by just taking a class together.  During rehearsals, the students often get to know each other better and develop friendships.  

There is so much communication during rehearsals.   We encourage participation and students are encouraged to make suggestions or provide input to the routines.  Our students have a lot of great ideas and often make significant contributions to the final routine.

Even if you chose not to participate in the Showcase, we encourage you to watch the show.  You will not be disappointed!

Students of the Month - Erin and Cole Chretien - October 2021

Students of the Month
Erin and Cole Chretien
Mother and Son Duo October 2021
 

When and Why did you start? 
Erin:  I started in June 2021. I had been wanting to do it for a long time, but kept putting it off.  My friend invited me to a class in Dover, and I went with her and loved it! But Dover is an hour from my house so I knew that wouldn't work. I looked up local aerial yoga and found Aerial Fun and Fitness!  After I took my first class, Cole said he wanted to try it, so I hosted a private party, and he came and loved it.
Cole:  I don't remember the date but I know it was in the summer. It just sounded really fun and I wanted to do it when I saw it.  

What made you come back and stick with it? 
Erin:  I hate exercise but this always looked fun. I thought it would be easy and gentle. But I never realized how hard you work! Even though I was out of shape, I didn't mind putting the work in. I just really love it and wanted to keep coming back!
Cole:  Just the amount of fun I was having when I did it and doing all the flips and stuff.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
Erin:  I would tell them to just keep trying.  Everyone is so supportive. You don't feel embarrassed if you can't do something. Things really do get easier and your body starts to get used to the hammock, especially when it is in rope form.
Cole:  Keep your muscles straight and have your core strong and just have fun with it.

What have been some of your challenges? 
Erin:  Standing on rope and hip hang. It hurt so bad when I started. JoAnne always said you get used to it and you really do. Also I have a weak core so flips are more difficult.
Cole:  Trying to get up into horse; it's hard.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio?  
Erin:  I have only tried hammock so far.
Cole:  I use a silk period. I use the shorter ones preferably the purple ones.

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
Erin:  I like pigeon and scorpion. I like the stretches of these poses. I am really bad at remembering the names.
Cole:  I like the chicken wing flip without touching the ground because you can just hang there for as long as you want and as long as you don't put your head down the blood doesn't rush to your head.

One word that defines you? 
Erin:  I'll go with creative. I love anything where I can be creative. I think that is a reason why I love aerial.
Cole:  Weird

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
Erin:  I want to get stronger and just be consistent. I never stick with any kind of exercise. I also want to continue learning with Cole! It is so great to share this with him.  We are both really excited to be in showcase!
Cole:  Getting into more complicated flips and cool positions and shapes.

"It goes where?"

Zina's Aerialosophy _ (get it aerial + philosophy)__

OCTOBER 2021

“It goes where?”

Learning new moves, whether for class or  special event like showcase, can be a challenge .  Have you had these thoughts upside down? My foot goes where? My knee does what?  You want my belly where?  How do I get my arm to do that?  You want me to grab what?  And point my toes?  (I am laughing right now…)

These might be new body positions or  when your upside down it feels like a new body position...where to place your arm or leg or thread your head or your foot or even rotate your belly or your torso a certain direction can be challenging standing up let alone being upside down.

 STUDENTS:  Here's some tips you can even do some of these at home especially during showcase time when you only have a fixed amount of time to learn a routine…

One of my favorite tools is practice on the ground what you're trying to do in the air.  Yes it might feel a little awkward but it also will move your body in a new pattern and you might have some aha moments of all that's where that might go or talk yourself through it on the ground.  this is something that you can even do at home.   Plus another benefit to that is movement in all of your planes of motion.

 A few other things that would be helpful and these you can also do at home.  Break down each section into small parts and master each small part at a time.

•  Put things in your words whether it's verbally or write it out how you think. 

• Try visualizing what you're doing in your own mind

• Then try reversing what you just did, go out the same way you went in.

When you're in class ask for a spot if you need it,  or to clarify,  and then remember to take a deep breath and be patient with yourself.   **As we've joked in class if more than one person doesn't get it, the teacher might need to rephrase it or revisit it in the future.   I know I have done that, smile.

TEACHERS:  Break down the skills or teach in sections.  Help your students learn quicker by 

using your verbs first, require less thinking - reach, lift, turn, wrap, hook, thread, etc…  

You might even need to break things down to right and left especially if they're complicated flows level 2 and above or find another way to say it.  This can build on familiar skills and create some muscle memory on parts of the new skills before they get in the air.  And as we mentioned to the students, get on the ground and demo skills with them.  This is a great place to cover technique or safety items.  Also demo in the air so they can listen before they get in the air and have to process everything at once.  

Flying is a fun process and we all process and learn differently.  You will get the skills, be patient, sometimes we need to breathe, sometimes we need good cues, sometimes we need to get stronger, sometimes we need the nervous system to fire the right muscles.  But you will get there.   Fly well!

Students of the Month - Holly and Leslie - Sep 2021

Sep 2021

Two students to be spotlighted this month, because Leslie and Holly go together like peanut butter and jelly, peas and carrots, and cookies and milk. Fostering and cultivating friendships is a huge part of the culture at the studio.

Students of the Month
Leslie Healey and Holly Bryk

When and Why did you start? 
Holly:  I started at the current location when it opened, however I have been a student of Zina's for twelve years. I began with her when she came to my place of employment and taught yoga.  Honestly, I began because the class was convenient, Zina came to us. I had not tried Yoga before. Then I followed Zina to her studio.
Leslie:  About 10 years ago, Zina came to my school and offered floor yoga classes once a week. A group of us started, and Zina's personality hooked us.  Stress!!!  Also, it was so convenient.

What made you come back and stick with it? 
Holly:  Zina made me feel comfortable as a beginning student. She was patient and understanding. She differentiated based on students' needs, abilities, and comfort levels. She pushed me out of my comfort zone just enough to make me want to persist and persevere. And Zina is awesome about celebrating her students' successes. Actually, all of the aerial instructors at the studio are knowledgeable and patient. They are awesome at identifying students' strengths and challenges providing options to meet the needs of each individual.
Leslie:  I felt stronger right away. I was not very flexible, and had to practice hard to get even simple poses, but  it made me feel good.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
Holly:  Aerial fitness is a fun and challenging way to work out. Try all of the aerial fitness options to discover your preference. What you like may just surprise you. Some days your body will cooperate and everything will be spot on. Other days your body will have a mind of its own and your workout will not go as planned, and that is okay.
Leslie:  Well, it is not about being good at it. It is about the routine of doing it which becomes essential to your happiness and self image.

What have been some of your challenges? 
Holly:  Fear has been my biggest challenge; fear and trust in my abilities. Fear of flipping, fear of being upside down, and fear of falling. It took me MONTHS to even attempt to flip, but I did it.
Leslie:  I am at the top of my game in my profession (Lit teacher), so doing something that I am not a natural at, takes perseverance, so I work on that every day. I now believe that spending time on activities that are not necessarily your natural talent is NECESSARY for mental health  and happiness. It also puts me in touch with how it feels to be a student--that helps me in my job.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio?  
Holly:  I train in the hammock, both low and high. I also train on lyra, and I have participated in cardio drumming and bungee classes. I am looking forward to trying out the dance fitness class.
Leslie:  I love low hammock, because I love being upside down. Really. I also do high hammock, a little lyra, and Zina also trains me, so I love the circuit. Deadlifting is awesome. I tried bungee once, and it was was so much fun that I am pretty sure I laughed for the entire hour.

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
Holly:  Currently, my favorite poses on the lyra are inside mermaid and outside mermaid, especially outside mermaid because that has been a challenging pose for me, and I am still working to perfect it.
Leslie:  Sleeping bear for cool down. All the bat poses!

One word that defines you? 
Holly:  Persistent
Leslie:  Optimistic. Curious.

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
Holly:  I would like to continue building my strength, confidence and grace and let go of my fear. Lyra has helped me to do that more than any other apparatus. I hope to continue my aerial journey on lyra.
Leslie:  Stronger stronger stronger - that is what I am going for, as getting older is no joke!

Student of the Month - Chris Funk July 2021

Student of the Month
Chris Funk

July 2021

When and Why did you start? 
January 2020.  I've always been interested in aerial but was afraid to go outside of my comfort zone. My boyfriend got me a class card for Christmas that year to help encourage me and I've been hooked ever since!

 
What made you come back and stick with it? 
I stuck with aerial because I left every class feeling strong and proud that I could do things I never imagined I would be able to do. It has given me a lot of confidence and has been a great way for me to exercise and build a lot of strength while having a lot of fun. I also really loved the fun and encouraging environment and how everyone roots for each other. 
 
What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
For someone just starting, I would say be patient with yourself and try not to compare your progress to other students. Those are both things I struggled a lot with, but everyone is so different and everyone has their unique strengths. It's important to focus on yourself and what you can do and go from there. It makes it that much more rewarding when you finally are able to do something you have been struggling with.

What have been some of your challenges? 
As many people at the studio know, my nemesis for a long time was cat stuck in a tree because I had trouble keeping my hips up. I still struggle with keeping my hips up in some moves, but I've gotten a lot better with it. Other than that, my biggest challenge is probably remembering how to get into more complicated poses and remembering longer flows. It takes a while for me to build muscle memory so I have to be patient with myself when it comes to that. 
 
What apparatuses do you train on at the studio?  
I started with hammock and it is still my main apparatus, but I started taking Lyra classes a few months ago which has been a fun challenge.

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
 I really like horse because there's a lot you can do from there. Other than that I love anything involving flips because they're so much fun. I also love sleeping bear for relaxation and heron and sloth for stretching.

One word that defines you? 
Determined. I can be very stubborn when I don't get something on the first try and won't rest until I get it. That's actually something I've had to work on because sometimes you need to have patience and give yourself a break so you don't wear yourself out. 

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I always want to have aerial as a hobby, and maybe one day I would like to get certified to teach classes. I would love to have a home rig one day so I can practice more often and come up with my own flows. 

Editor Note:   Chris recently announced that she has accepted an amazing out of state opportunity.  While she will no longer be able to be a weekly regular at the studio, she will ALWAYS be a part of our aerial family and has promised to come back at every chance she gets.  Join us in wishing her well on this next adventure!

Student of the Month - Tya Pope - June 2021

Student of the Month
Tya Pope

June 2021

 

When did you start at the studio? 
I signed up for my first class January 1st, 2019.

Why did you start? 
Each year I try to challenge myself to do something new that I've always wanted to try. After seeing the studio many times, I decided it was time to just do it. I'm so glad I did!

What made you come back and stick with it? 
I loved the environment and instructors. Everyone is so kind and patient. You need a lot of patience with me. I'm not the most confident, but I wanted to prove to myself I could do it if I stuck with it. I ended up doing the Student Showcase almost right out of the gate. That was the thing I needed to show me, you know what, you can do this.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
If you've always wanted to do it, this is the perfect studio for you. If you're not really sure, this is the perfect studio for you. If you've never considered aerial and you're reading this, this is the right studio for you.

What have been some of your challenges? 
Consistency and confidence. You get better with practice and I beat myself up over how much work I still need for some of the basics. That in turn leads me to avoiding then it becomes a vicious circle. My confidence has grown for sure, but I still have some way to go.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
I'm pretty much Hammock only, but I have taken a class or two on Lyra. I would really love to do silks.

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
 Sleeping bear and other relaxation poses. After a great class I love being able to just lay in the Hammock and say to myself, Tya you did it, while I gently swing back and forth. It's such a great feeling.

One word that defines you? 
Meticulous

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I would love to get to a place where I go to class and I'm not paranoid about being in the front. I want to feel comfortable and confident in growing while still learning. I want to learn to give myself grace. All of these things will undoubtedly transfer into my day to day life. I think that's the beauty of aerial. So much of what I learn about myself in the studio are life lessons I can take home. I'm so grateful to Zina, Kelsey, and all the folks who make the studio such a warm and welcoming place to be.

Student of the Month - Pat Hammond - May 2021

Student of the Month
Pat Hammond

 May 2021

When did you start at the studio? 
 I started about 4-5 years ago.

Why did you start? 
My daughter was doing teacher training and needed a few “guinea
pigs” to practice on. So, she invited me and her future mother-in-law to a beginner
hammock class. I wasn’t sure it was for me at the time, but I made it through!

What made you come back and stick with it? 
 AFF offered a hammock class for people 50+, so I decided that might be a sign for me to go back and try it again. My instructor was Janice, who was very patient and encouraging, and I made some nice friends, so I actually stuck with it and started to see steady improvements.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
Try to stick with it, especially if you are a middle-aged person. Try not to get discouraged by younger people who pick up a move that you’ve been trying to do for months the first time they attempt it. If you don’t give up on yourself, you will eventually be doing things that you didn’t even know your body
could do and your mind will be stronger too.

What have been some of your challenges? 
I have poor body awareness and need to practice a new move multiple times to get it in my brain. Unfortunately, I don’t always have the strength and stamina to practice some of the more difficult moves as many times as I need to in order to really “learn” it. This makes my progress slow and frustrating at times, as I think I have “mastered” a move one week, but then lose it or have to go back to tagging
the next week. I also have a terrible memory for what moves are called!

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
Right now, just hammock, but I have enjoyed bungee in the past also.
 
Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
I like Sailboat, Around the World, Cat Stuck in a Tree- I guess I like to rotate (or those may be the only names that I can remember!)
 
One word that defines you? 
Grateful- I am so grateful that I have found a fitness routine that I look forward to doing in an environment where everyone (instructors and fellow students) is encouraging and supportive.

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I want to continue to get stronger, healthier, and more flexible throughout my 60’s so that I am able to sit on the floor (and get up!) and play with and chase my future grandchildren.

Student of the Month - Jennifer (Jenn) Fox - April 2021

Student of the Month
Jennifer (Jenn) Fox - Aerial Hammock

April 2021
       
 

When did you start at the studio? 
I started several years ago on a whim with a friend. Kelsey was my first instructor and SOLD it for me. I want to say it was about 2015. Since then I came every once in a while, but really started to jump back in this year. I've loved working closely with so many great instructors and other students.
 
Why did you start? 
I am the type of person that gets really into something fitness wise and then gets bored, so I like to change it up every once in a while. Aerial naturally does that for me. Also, I have always been on the larger side, but I always still felt successful at aerial. It is hard to find workouts that you leave feeling confident, another thing it does for me. In my life, I've never been able to do any sort of flips, or hand stands or cartwheels, but after my first angel wing flip out, it was such a freeing feeling and I was hooked. After making the commitment to work on myself this year, I jumped back in because I wanted to see how much more I could do now that I weighed less...and I have been going consistently ever since. I LOVE that aerial is for everyone. Young, old, "big-boned," or slim...everyone can do it and get something out of it.
 
What made you come back and stick with it? 
I LOVE to bring everyone and anyone I know to try an intro class. I even convinced my amazingly supportive husband to try with me. Everyone is always so nervous, but the first thing I tell them is just do what you are comfortable with and enjoy it. The idea of it is far more "scary" than actually doing it. Also, my philosophy is to just keep going. Class doesn't work for you? Try a different instructor. Can't get a move? Keep trying and or do what you can, reaching smaller goals along the way.
 
What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
I LOVE to bring everyone and anyone I know to try an intro class. I even convinced my amazingly supportive husband to try with me. Everyone is always so nervous, but the first thing I tell them is just do what you are comfortable with and enjoy it. The idea of it is far more "scary" than actually doing it. Also, my philosophy is to just keep going. Class doesn't work for you? Try a different instructor. Can't get a move? Keep trying and or do what you can, reaching smaller goals along the way.
 
What have been some of your challenges? 
Horse wrap (which involves climbing) is my arch nemesis right now. I'm working on building my core and upper body strength, but I'm getting closer little by little. I also have started to take all of my bruises as battle scars. I show them off proudly because it means I tried something hard today and pushed through. Hip hang was also a bit of a challenge in the start. As someone who has had 2 c-sections and whose weight was mostly in her abdomen, it makes doing hip hang extra difficult. But I've built up a tolerance and now I love it...most of the time. 
 
What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
Currently, only aerial hammock. I do love Cardio Drumming as well and hope to EVENTUALLY be able to do Lyra. I'm excited to try Bungee very soon.
 
Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
Flip out, Chicken, flying stick, sleeping bat, baby bat, and sleeping bear. I love all of the flip outs and pocket flip outs because it is working my core hard, but still thrilling. Sleeping bear is my go to relaxation. I feel like it helps with my spine alignment while allowing air into the hammock. And flying stick I just think looks cool. Someday I know when I achieve  horse that will be a favorite as well.
 
One word that defines you? 
Motivated and determined. Even when I can't do something, I keep trying it to the point where I have to tell myself to stop. I KNOW I will get there eventually, it just takes a little more work sometimes. I believe that aerial is another opportunity that has shaped my life, and I'm going to take it with everything I've got and put my all into it.
 
What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I would love to eventually move into the higher levels and gain even more flexibility and strength, and do Lyra. I'm also hoping to assist in finding a satellite location in Middletown where I think it would be widely popular (as well as closer for me!). Lastly, when we finally buy our next house, I can't WAIT to put my own hammock up to practice in my home whenever I want.

Student of the Month - Bella Ryan March 2021

Student of the Month
Bella Ryan

March 2021

When did you start at the studio? 
I took my first class at age 9 when my Aunt Gina was a temporary instructor at the studio. I started consistently taking classes when I was 11. I am now 14, turning 15 in April!

Why did you start? 
I took gymnastics at my school from about 3rd-5th grade, but once I switched schools for middle school, I had to find a new physical activity. I had never been sporty so I thought aerial yoga/fitness would be a good option to try again!

What made you come back and stick with it? 
Aerial fitness was something I genuinely enjoyed and found fun!

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
It may feel like your progress is slow when you first start and a lot of positions will be uncomfortable and painful, but you need to give your body time to adjust. It WILL get better as you continue doing it!

What have been some of your challenges? 
Wow, so much. I have improved a ton since I first started and I have overcome a lot. I think a big one is pinching in the fabric— I remember when I started taking level 2-3 classes with Karly, almost every move felt pinchy and painful. Since then, I have managed to just about master her whole lesson plan with much more comfortability in the fabric. When almost every move felt pinchy, now it is just an occasional feeling that usually happens when I get the fabric on the wrong place.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
Just hammock! I have tried lyra, bungee, and silks as well but have not kept up with any of them.

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
Hmm I can’t really think of a favorite pose, but I do like doing flip-flops, which is inverting into a hip hang, moving the fabric down to your calves, and bringing your legs back and forth above your head while keeping your upper body grounded. I worked on these a lot with Karly when we did virtual classes during quarantine and I made a lot of progress with them! They make me feel strong.

One word that defines you? 
I would say committed. I don’t focus on many hobbies/skills—mainly flute and aerial fitness —but I’ve been doing both for a while and I work on them a lot!

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I want to proceed to the highest level possible and get as strong as I can along the way!

Student of the Month - Sierra Jarmon - Feb 2021

Student of the Month
Sierra Jarmon -

Feb 2021

When did you start at the studio? 
I began my journey at the end of October 2020.

Why did you start? 
About 6 months before Covid, I had just discovered aerial yoga.  I kept procrastinating about trying it until one day I knew I needed a workout routine that I could stick with, because it's fun.

What made you come back and stick with it? 
The amount of fun that I have doing this makes me feel like I'm not even working out.  Also, it provides me lots of relief from my back pain, and accomplishing a new pose is always so rewarding!

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
I would say don't overthink anything.  Just do what comes naturally to your body.

What have been some of your challenges? 
Poses and exercises requiring upper body strength have been, by far, my biggest challenge.  But the more classes I come to, the stronger I get!

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
I currently only train on the hammock.  Very soon I plan on trying Lyra. 

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
Sacrum Wrap Inversion and any Butterfly pose

One word that defines you? 
Adventurous 

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I think I would like to keep progressing one level at a time.  As I keep progressing, I want to continue to increase my flexibility and core & upper body strength.

Zina's Aerial Corner Jan 2021 -Thrive

Zina's Aerial Corner

2021 is here. We will THRIVE not just survive. Thriving is a choice.  Yes, this is a deliberate mental choice to shift your thinking. Your challenge this month is to change your mental state.  Every day write down 3 things you are grateful for or thankful for.   Gratitude is one way to thrive. 

One one my entries this month was being thankful we are open for business to create a safe space, thankful we are all united in something to challenge us physically, mentally and some days emotionally, thankful for all of my great teachers,  thankful for all of our students, and ALL of you who make this studio such a great place.  In fact as I listen and watch sometimes, this is a dream come true.  We have a true blessing to be together and cheer each other on. 

Love, Monkeys and SeaHorses, 
Zina
 

COVID Updates

Clean Air System
As our students’ safety has always been, and will always continue to be, one of our highest priorities, we have added an UV lite sanitizer of protection to our HVAC system.

Perm-Safe
We have also added an additional layer of protection to our studio, by having it fogged and santized.

Class Sizes
To comply with the latest regulations, we have reduced the number of available spots in numerous classes.  
⦁    Sign up well in advance.
⦁    If a class is full, add your name to the waitlist. Keep an eye on your email.  Cancelations do happen. 
⦁    Cancellation/sign up window closes four hours prior to class.  If you need to cancel, please do so as soon as possible, so another student may have the opportunity to join the class.

Student of the Month - Amanda Cavoto - Jan 2021

Student of the Month
Amanda Cavoto -

Jan 2021

When did you start at the studio? 
I started February 2019 right before Covid shut the world down. 

Why did you start? 
I realized that I was really unfit and unhealthy. It was starting to get in the way of my living a happy life. I knew that if I just tried going to the gym and plugging away on the elliptical, I’d never stick to it. I wanted to find something that I could do that was exercise but didn’t really “feel” like exercise, if that makes sense.

What made you come back and stick with it? 
Once I saw how positively aerial fitness was impacting my life, I was hooked. I remember one photo that was taken where my tricep was POPPIN’. That was a clarifying moment of “Oh, yeah. That’s why I’m doing this! I look great!” I also feel better than I have in a long time.

All of the teachers are amazing. I always feel encouraged and the atmosphere is celebratory of everyone. They truly love to get to know their students. It’s not just like a “professionally friendly” type thing. It’s a true and genuine interest in every person who walks through the door. 

I also really enjoy getting to know the other students. I’ve never met someone who wasn’t happy to be there. When you go there, you know that everyone genuinely cares about you. It’s a family.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial fitness? 
Be patient and don’t compare yourself to others. If you see someone excelling at something you’re struggling with, it’s okay. Everyone’s experience is unique. Having a growth mindset and a willingness to learn is imperative. Don’t beat yourself up! Just showing up to class and putting in work makes you a rockstar!

What have been some of your challenges? 
I think a huge challenge of mine has been getting out of my own head. I tend to overthink what is being taught to me. I also needed to build a lot of arm and core strength and I’m still working on that.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio? 
I currently train on hammock and lyra.  I’ll be starting bungee classes soon! 

Your favorite pose(s), and why do you like it?
When training on hammock, I LOVE Heron pose. I’ve always had tightness in the back of my legs and it’s helped open everything up. I also love any variation of a Butterfly because of how wonderful it is for your hips. I like Flying Stick because it’s just fun!

When I’m training in the Lyra hoop, I really enjoy anything that I can do while spinning. I’m just learning how to put flows together smoothly and I’m enjoying that right now. I will say, I felt very accomplished when I mastered Arabesque.

One word that defines you? 
Determined

What path would you like aerial to take for you? 
I would really like to take it to the highest level I can on the Lyra and on the Hammock. Now that I know I’m capable of it,  I definitely want to be learn to do things I never thought in a million years I’d be capable of doing.

Deena Nekoukar - Student of the Month - Sep 2020

Deena Nekoukar - Student of the Month

Sep 2020

When did you start at the studio?

• Six years ago.

Why did you start aerial?

• I saw someone doing aerial yoga on America’s Got Talent and I thought that looked like fun. There was a studio 5 minutes away, so I called and signed up for a class.

What made you come back and stick with it?

• It was so much fun, and when I flipped, I was hooked! Zina made me laugh, every class was different, and Zina never doubted me.

What would you tell someone just starting aerial
fitness?

• You aren’t going to throw up. Classes are super fun and just do the best you can do. It takes more than one class to be successful.

What have been some of your challenges?

• All of it. Every class is a challenge. Every class I try to pick a flow that I did ok with. It takes me a long time to understand other poses, and that’s ok. If I show up for class, I’m already ahead of the game.

What apparatuses do you train on at the studio?

• Lyra, hammock, and silks.

Your fav pose(s), and why do you like it?

• I love tic tocs. They are super fun. I also enjoy shoulder stands, flipping, and restorative bat. And nap time!

One word that defines you?

• Outgoing

What path would you like aerial to take for you?

• Upside down. Lol. Aerial and Zina have changed my life. I know I’m stronger physically and mentally now. I would like to eventually be able to do silks effortlessly. Oh, and a handstand without the hammock support! 

Some of the alternative training Deena and her family did during the covid break. This was taken right before the parks were closed.