[jeng]

I started doing aerial silks about 9 months ago.  I had been poling for about 3 years at that time.  If I hadn't been doing poling for so long and had the core and upper body strength I would not of progressed so quickly.  So much of what I do on pole translates nicely onto the silks.  I find I get tired out on the silks quicker than on pole but find learning new advanced pole tricks much more difficult than learning something new on the silks.

My instructor also recommended the New England Center for Circus Arts to me but I haven't had the time or money to do it.  

I did purchase a rig for my backyard and when its not so hot outside I practice on it.

I still love pole more than silks though.  I did try lyra but didn't like it. 

[jeng]

Hi there.  I live in Pittsburgh.  There are several pole studios in the area.  I would recommend Spin on Fitness or Full Body Fitness Club.

I'm self taught but visit both locations when I want to get practice in on the taller poles since I have low ceilings at home.  Most of the instructors are at an intermediate level but are great group of gals.

If you are advanced and are looking to learn advanced tricks you really are out of luck.  I haven't found anyone yet in the Pittsburgh area that can teach advanced combinations so I usually have to wait till someone comes to town to do workshops. 

Full Body Fitness Club also has aerial silks (20 feet high ceilings).  I've been taking classes for aerial silks for about 9 months now.  I love it so much I purchased my own rig for my backyard.

If you want any more info let me know.

[jeng]

I too originally had a 50mm chrome.  Then switched to a 45mm titanium.  Greatly improved my ability to learn advanced holds since my hands always felt like they were loosing grip on the 50mm.  I have no issues doing the same moves on the 50mm now but still prefer the 45.

[jeng]

Thanks, those are some of the rigs I've been looking at.  I'm trying to figure out if I want to go with the tripod vs 4 leg design.

 

I'm looking for something that is easy to put up and down that will still allow me to do some basic drops on.  Its just going to be used for me to practice on and not do any type of professional performances on.

Has anyone worked on the tripod configurations?

[jeng]

Thanks I'll definately try to swing by for the Tuesday 7pm class.

 

[jeng]

thanks I'm going to swing by there to workout one evening.

[jeng]

I just took her signature tricks class and it was very good. I found it better than one I did with pant era blacksmith. I guess it depends on what you level is and what you want to get out of it.

[jeng]

I just took her signature tricks class and it was very good. I found it better than one I did with pant era blacksmith. I guess it depends on what you level is and what you want to get out of it.

[jeng]

Can't wait to meet you.  I'll be in your signature workshop in the pittsburgh area in a couple weeks.  You are so graceful and strong.

[jeng]

I've been trying this move lately and its killing the top of my foot.  Is there less pressure if you fully lay back in the position rather than just sitting upright while trying to get the correct positioning.

I've watch Charley's videos but wondering if anyone has any additional tips/suggestions how to get past the pain.

[jeng]

Welcome back Roxy,  Was wondering where you went.  Glad you are back on the pole, you are fantastic.

[jeng]

Welcome back Roxy,  Was wondering where you went.  Glad you are back on the pole, you are fantastic.

[jeng]

I personally prefer tricks rather than dance myself but that is because I've not graceful or fluid.  I do pole to keep in shape and for the sense of accomplishment when I nail a trick I've been working hard at.  I like watching videos that have some dancing in them but mostly watch them to spot new tricks or combos to learn than anything else.

[jeng]

I bought my first xpole after my first lesson in a studio.  Practicing once per week was not enough for me.  I did a 6 week class in a studio then did a few private lessons cause no one was offering intermediate classes but they were too expensive and I was progressing much faster at home with the Art of Pole DVD series.  I do go to a studio about once every couple months not to learn but just because its fun getting together with other girls to practice with plus they have higher poles than I do at home.    The cost to pole in s studio all the time is really expensive if you compare it to other fitness memberships.

[jeng]

Thanks.  I've going to have a private lesson with her in Vegas later this month 🙂