How to Create a Pole & Aerial Routine for a Showcase Without Losing Your Mind

So, you’ve signed up for a showcase. Congratulations! You’re about to embark on a thrilling journey of self-expression, artistry, and possibly a few existential crises. But don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether this is your first performance or your tenth, let’s break down how to put together a routine that wows the audience and doesn’t drive you to consider a career in competitive underwater basketweaving instead.

Step 1: Start Early (Seriously, Do It)

You know that feeling when you’re cramming for a test the night before? That’s exactly what you don’t want when creating your routine. Give yourself ample time—at least 6-8 weeks—to experiment with different combos, transitions, and floorwork. This also gives your body time to adjust to the increased training load without spontaneously combusting. This also allows you time to really work through the difficulty of a skill or sequence. A word of caution: if this skill or sequence is only successfully nailed half the time at best, TAKE IT OUT, and put something more attainable in its place. From personal experience, and failure on stage, set yourself up for success every step of the way. You can always work on that sequence or skill for a “next showcase” goal. And always remember that simple and polished is better than ambitious and sloppy. A well-executed basic move will always outshine a wobbly, half-finished trick.

Step 2: Pick Your Song Like Your Life Depends on It

Your song choice sets the mood for everything. Do you want to be sultry? Dramatic? Straight-up unhinged? Choose wisely, because you’re going to hear this song roughly 17,000 times before the big day. If by week three you’re resisting the urge to hurl your speaker out the window, you chose correctly.

Step 3: Be Open to Critiques (Even When It Hurts)

Your coach isn’t trying to ruin your life when they tell you that your spin looks more like a flailing noodle than a graceful bird. We want you to shine! Sometimes, that means dishing out a little tough love. Feedback is your best friend- embrace it, apply it, and remember that it’s all about helping you reach your full potential (not just making you redo that invert for the 50th time).

Step 4: Avoid Overtraining (Yes, You Need Rest)

Look, I get it. You want to nail that perfect combo, hit that power move, and basically look like you belong in Cirque du Soleil. But training seven days a week with no breaks is a surefire way to end up curled in a ball of regret. Rest days are just as important as training days. Your muscles need time to recover so they can keep doing cool things without turning into angry, rebellious gremlins.

Step 5: Recognize Burnout Before You Start Hating Everything

If you suddenly loathe your routine, your training, and even your favorite post-workout snack, you might be dealing with burnout. Take a step back, mix things up, or even take a short break. Sometimes, a little distance from the routine can help you fall back in love with it. It’s perfectly ok to take a week off from training your routine and just take a class or two or just rest completely. Even top athletes taper before a big event. After a break you’ll often find you have fresh energy to power through.

Step 6: The Final Polish - Stand Out on Stage

Once you've nailed your routine, it's time to refine the details that will take your performance to the next level. Stage presence matters! Make eye contact, commit to your character, and perform with purpose. Eliminate micro-bends, ensure every movement is intentional, and embody confidence. There's nothing worse than a forgettable performance, so focus on creating a moment that sticks with the audience long after the music stops.

And now for the real fun part—shopping for a new outfit! Who doesn’t need another excuse for more class outfits? Give yourself enough time before dress rehearsal to practice with any complex outfits or props. The last thing you want is a wardrobe malfunction mid-spin! Don’t forget that hair and makeup are just as important as the moves themselves.

Step 7: What to Expect from Your First Performance

The first time you step onto that stage, you will feel everything at once: excitement, terror, possibly the urge to fake a sprained ankle and flee. But trust me, once the music starts, muscle memory kicks in, and suddenly, you’re doing the thing! The adrenaline will be real, and so will the sense of accomplishment when you finish. Try to remember, you hold all the cards here, the audience is seeing all your weeks of hard work for the first time, to them you’re inspiring before your music even starts. No matter what happens, the audience is rooting for you, and you’ll walk (or strut) away feeling like an absolute rock star.

Step 8: Embrace Mistakes - They Happen to Everyone

No one, absolutely no one, including your instructors—has a 100% flawless performance on stage. Adrenaline and excitement will have your blood pumping, and sometimes, little mistakes happen. The point of weeks of preparation is to mitigate and minimize those errors, but they are still part of the experience. The true purpose of a showcase is to reach a goal, overcome a challenge, and, most importantly, have fun showing off what you’ve worked so hard on.

And here’s the best part—those little mistakes? They can become your next challenge. Every performance teaches you something new, and what may have tripped you up this time can be your next goal to conquer. Each showcase builds on the last, helping you grow stronger, more polished, and more confident every time you step on stage.

Final Thoughts: Own Your Moment

Showcases aren’t just about impressing a crowd, they’re about challenging yourself, growing as a performer, and having fun. Every drop of sweat, every stumble, and every breakthrough leads to this moment. So, give yourself grace, celebrate the small wins, and most importantly, remember to breathe. You’ve put in the work, now trust yourself and enjoy the ride. No matter what happens on stage, you’re already a success just for showing up and giving it your all.

So go out there, shine bright, and make it a performance to remember!

Giving Yourself Grace on Your Pole and Aerial Journey: Shut Up, Comparison Monster!

Look, we all have those days. You walk into the studio ready to channel your inner gravity-defying goddess, only to feel like a limp spaghetti noodle with the grip strength of a toddler. And you know what? That’s okay. Actually, it’s normal. Because guess what? You’re human. Unless you’re secretly a flying squirrel in disguise, in which case, impressive, but you can sit this one out.

The thing about pole and aerial arts is that they demand patience, persistence, and a whole lot of self-compassion. Most of us aren’t training full-time; we have jobs, school, families, or a cat who demands 85% of our attention at all times. So when we step into the studio, we’re asking our bodies to do things that defy basic physics, and we need to give them time to catch up.

Off Days Are Just Part of the Deal

Not every session is going to be a breakthrough. Some days, you’re going to feel like a majestic aerial unicorn, and other days, you’re going to feel like a tangled-up sloth slowly sliding to the ground. That doesn’t mean you’re failing; it just means you’re human. Progress isn’t linear, and the sooner you embrace the ups and downs, the more you’ll enjoy the ride (or spin, or climb, or painful-looking split attempt).

Patience: Injuries Are the Worst Party Crashers

Let’s talk about the rushers. Those of us who see someone nail a move and immediately think, I can totally do that! without considering the strength and conditioning behind it. Listen, enthusiasm is great, but injuries are not. If you rush into something your body isn’t ready for, you’ll likely end up on the injured list, and nothing slows progress more than a forced break.

Think of training like building a house. It’s best to have a solid foundation, then put up the walls, then the finishing touches. Same goes for your aerial training. Build your foundation, strengthen your grip, and don’t skip the progressions. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a crumbling house or a collapsed shoulder.

Tell the Comparison Monster to Sit Down and Be Quiet

Ah, the Comparison Monster. We all know it. It whispers things like, Why aren’t you as strong as them? Why can’t you do that move yet? Maybe you just suck. First of all, rude. Second of all, not true.

Everyone’s journey is different. People progress at different rates based on their experience, training frequency, body mechanics, and about a thousand other factors. The person effortlessly inverting next to you? They might have years of gymnastics training under their belt. Or maybe they’re just having a great day while you’re running on three hours of sleep and a questionable amount of caffeine. Either way, their progress doesn’t take away from yours.

When the Comparison Monster starts yapping, remind yourself: I’m on my own path. My progress is mine, and it’s valid. Then kindly tell it to shut up and go sit in the corner.

Celebrating the Small Wins

Did you hold that grip for a few seconds longer? Did you climb just a little higher? Did you show up and try even when you didn’t feel like it? That’s progress. Celebrate it. Every small victory adds up, and when you look back, you’ll realize how far you’ve come.

So be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. Train smart, take breaks when you need them, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Because at the end of the day, pole and aerial arts are supposed to be fun, and you deserve to love the process.

Now go forth and fly (safely, please).

Starting Pole and Aerial Fitness: Overcoming Hesitation and Taking the Leap

Starting something new can be daunting, and pole and aerial fitness classes are no exception. Many of us face doubts and fears when considering this unique and challenging activity. Whether it’s about fitness levels, body image, or simply walking into a studio for the first time, these hesitations are completely normal.

But here’s the thing: those first steps can lead to an empowering and transformative journey. Let’s talk about some common concerns and how to overcome them so you can feel confident walking into your first class.

Common Concerns About Starting Pole and Aerial Fitness

1. "I’m not strong enough." One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to be super fit or strong to start. The truth is pole and aerial classes are designed for beginners with no prior experience. You’ll build strength gradually as you practice. Remember, everyone starts somewhere!

2. "I’ll embarrass myself." Feeling self-conscious is natural, but studios are welcoming and supportive spaces. Most people are focused on their own progress, not on judging others. Your instructors are there to guide and encourage you every step of the way.

3. "I don’t have the right body type." Pole and aerial fitness are for every body. Studios celebrate diversity and focus on individual progress. No matter your shape, size, or flexibility level, you belong.

4. "It’s too intimidating." Walking into a new environment can be scary, but remind yourself that everyone in the room was a beginner once. Consider bringing a friend to your first class or joining an introductory workshop to ease your nerves.

5. "What if I fail?" Falling, slipping, or not nailing a move right away is part of the process. Progress comes from persistence, not perfection. Celebrate small wins and be kind to yourself as you learn.

Tips to Overcome Hesitation

1. Do Your Research- Look for beginner-friendly classes and read reviews about local studios. Many places offer intro sessions specifically tailored for first-timers.

2. Dress Comfortably- Wear clothes that make you feel confident and allow for movement. For pole, shorts and a tank top work best to help with grip. For aerial, leggings and a fitted top are ideal.

3. Set Realistic Expectations- It’s okay if you don’t master a move in your first class. Focus on learning the basics and having fun. Strength, coordination, and confidence will come with time.

4. Bring a Friend- Having a buddy can make the experience less intimidating and more fun. You can support and motivate each other throughout the class.

5. Communicate with Your Instructor- Let your instructor know it’s your first class. They’ll provide modifications and extra guidance to ensure you feel comfortable and safe.

What You Gain When You Start

• Improved Strength and Flexibility: You’ll build muscles you didn’t even know you had!

• Boosted Confidence: Learning new skills and overcoming fears is incredibly empowering.

• A Supportive Community: Pole and aerial studios are filled with encouraging and like-minded individuals who celebrate each other’s progress.

• Stress Relief: The focus required for pole and aerial fitness helps you disconnect from daily worries and be present in the moment.

Final Encouragement

Starting pole and aerial fitness might feel intimidating, but it’s a decision that could change your life for the better. Take a deep breath, silence that inner critic, and give yourself permission to try something new. You’ll be surprised by what you’re capable of—and the supportive community you’ll find along the way.

You’ve got this! 💪

Grip Aids: My Lifesaver as a Beginner in Pole & Aerial Classes

When I first started pole and aerial classes, I was absolutely terrified. Not just because of the intense workouts or the complex tricks, but because of my hands. As a beginner, I was constantly worried that my hands would get too sweaty and I’d lose my grip—leading to the inevitable fear of falling. That’s when I was introduced to grip aids, and let me tell you, they were a game changer for me.

In this post, I’m going to share my journey with grip aids, the different types that have helped me, and some recommendations for others who might be struggling with sweaty palms or dry skin. Whether you're a pole newbie or an experienced aerialist, figuring out what works for your body is essential. So, let's dive in!

The Struggle with Sweat (and Fear of Falling)

As a beginner, my biggest challenge was dealing with sweaty palms. Whenever I got nervous or worked too hard, my hands would start to sweat, making it difficult to execute even the simplest of spins. And as you can probably imagine, the thought of slipping and falling only made my anxiety worse.

That’s when I was introduced to my first grip aid: Dry Hands. This liquid chalk quickly became my best friend. It helped me stay calm and in control, even when I was working on difficult moves or facing my fears of falling. If you’ve ever experienced sweaty palms, you’ll understand just how important something like this can be in keeping you confident on the pole.

My Grip Aid Toolbox: What Works for Me

Over the years, I’ve tested a wide variety of grip aids, especially because my skin reacts so differently depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of some of the products I’ve tried, and what worked best for me:

1. Dry Hands - Liquid Chalk

Dry Hands has been my go-to product for years. This liquid chalk works wonders for sweaty skin types like mine, keeping me from slipping when I’m focusing on spins or static tricks. It’s a staple in my grip aid collection, and it’s my personal recommendation for anyone who struggles with sweaty palms.

2. Tite Grip 2 - Antiperspirant for Your Skin

Tite Grip 2 is another fantastic option for sweaty skin types. As an antiperspirant for the skin, it helps reduce moisture and keeps your grip strong. I’ve used this in conjunction with Dry Hands during particularly hot classes, and it’s been a solid addition to my routine.

3. Grip It - Spray Grip Aid

Grip It is a spray that works well for those who need quick-drying, non-greasy grip. This has been especially helpful when I’m working on fast-paced transitions or need a quick boost in between routines.

Adjusting for Different Seasons

I’ve learned that grip aids aren’t one-size-fits-all—they depend on your skin type and even the season! For example, during winter, my skin tends to dry out, making it harder to grip onto the pole. In these dry months, I’ve found that rosin and powdered grip aids work much better for me than the liquid options I use in the summer. The dry air doesn’t mix well with liquid chalk, so I’ve learned to adapt with a different strategy.

One product that has worked wonders for me in the winter months is the Lupit Grip Pad. This works really well on both stainless steel and brass poles. Brass poles tend to be grippier, so I’m cautious not to overdo it with the grip aids or I risk sticking too much to the pole.

Dealing with Dry Skin: iTAC and Other Alternatives

For people with dry skin, some grip aids, like iTAC, might seem like a great solution. While it’s a popular product, I personally didn’t have much success with it. As I mentioned earlier, my body tends to sweat more often than not, so products like iTAC just didn’t work for me.

On rare cold days when my skin dries out completely, I still face the challenge of sweaty hands and feet. The struggle is real—my skin may be dry, but my palms are still slippery! But finding the right balance of grip aid for both hot and cold months is something that takes a bit of trial and error.

For Aerialists: Other Grip Aid Options

As aerialists, we don’t just use grip aids for the pole—we also need them for the fabrics, silks, and hoops. One spray that has been incredibly helpful for aerial work is Cramer’s Firm Grip. This spray is very sticky and works wonders for fabrics, especially when you're dealing with those frustrating moments of slipping mid-performance. However, I’d advise against using it on poles as it’s too sticky and can make transitions awkward.

Bonus: Grippy Pole Wear

In addition to grip aids, grippy pole wear has also become a game-changer for many people. There are leggings, bodysuits, and kneepads designed to help increase grip, particularly for aerialists and pole dancers who want a little extra support. It’s a great alternative for those who might not want to rely solely on grip aids and also perhaps are seeking extra body coverage.

Final Thoughts: Experiment & Find What Works for You

As a beginner, finding the right grip aid can make all the difference in your pole and aerial journey. It’s a process of experimentation—what works for one person may not work for you, and vice versa. For me, Dry Hands remains my standard go-to, but I keep a few different products on hand for different situations.

Remember, don’t be discouraged if it takes a little while to find your perfect grip aid routine. With time, patience, and a bit of trial and error, you’ll find what works best for your body.

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Closing tip for beginners: Don’t be afraid to explore different options until you find what works for you. And most importantly, trust yourself and your grip—you’ve got this!

Where Fitness Takes Flight

Hello and welcome! I’m thrilled to have you here in our vibrant aerial community. Aerial fitness isn’t just a workout—it’s a journey where you get to challenge your body, discover your strength, and unleash your creativity. Whether you're new to fitness, exploring aerial arts, or looking to enhance your skills, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.

My journey into aerial fitness began in 2012, after the birth of my second child. I was searching for something exciting, challenging, and fun—and I found all of that in pole fitness. What started as a fitness regimen quickly grew into a passion, and soon I added lyra, sling, and silks to my routine. I’ve been teaching aerial fitness since 2020, and every day I’m inspired by my students’ progress, confidence, and joy as they embrace the aerial arts.

In this blog, I’ll be sharing tips, inspiration, and insights from my own journey, as well as ways to help you soar to new heights in your own fitness and aerial practice. Whether you're here for fitness, fun, or performance, I'm excited to be a part of your journey!

Let’s take flight together!