Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to demonstrate basic aerial silk techniques and understand the physical benefits of practicing aerial silks.

Materials and Prep

Materials:

• Aerial silks (can be substituted with a bedsheet)
• Secure anchor point (e.g. sturdy tree branch, pull-up bar)
• Comfortable clothing suitable for movement

Prep:

• Clear the area for safe movement
• Ensure the anchor point is secure and at an appropriate height

Activities

1. Warm-up: Start with a 5-10 minute full-body warm-up including stretches, jumping jacks, and light jogging to prepare the body for movement.

2. Basic Techniques: Demonstrate and practice climbing, foot locks, and simple poses on the aerial silk.

3. Creative Exploration: Encourage the student to experiment with creating their own poses and sequences on the aerial silk.

4. Cool Down: Finish with a 5-10 minute cooldown including gentle stretches and deep breathing exercises.

Eighth Grade Talking Points

• What are aerial silks and where did they originate?

  "Aerial silks, also known as aerial fabric or tissue, originated as a circus art form and involve performing acrobatic moves while suspended from fabric."

• How does practicing aerial silks benefit physical health?

  "Practicing aerial silks improves strength, flexibility, and coordination, while also providing a unique full-body workout."

• What are the safety considerations when using aerial silks?

  "It's important to always have a secure anchor point and to practice under supervision to ensure safety while using aerial silks."