Technique Tip: 5 Simple Skills - no climbing or inverting required!

Do you remember your early days of aerial? Whether it was a few months ago or many years back, those first experiences are unforgettable!

For me, I vaguely recall attempting to climb (and doing something that seriously burned my armpits 😅), and the thrill of learning my very first foot lock - back in 2007!

Whether you’re brand new to aerial, easing back in, or guiding others on their journey, it’s helpful to have a few approachable, confidence-building skills on hand.

That’s where this Technique Tip comes in - 5 skills using a hammock knot that don’t require climbing or inverting. These are great for first-timers, the curious friend who wants to give it a quick try, mixed-level classes, kids, or anyone looking to explore aerial silks close to the ground in an empowering way.

👇 Here are 5 fun and approachable hammock knot skills to try:

Aerial Box 💢

• Tie your hammock knot at about waist height.

• Place it behind your back like a backpack and hop to sit.

• Reach up, slide the fabric behind your knees, and step feet into the center.

• Extend arms up as you stand. Slide one foot out followed by the other, pressing outwards with your legs for stability. Once stable - reach hands higher and press the silks out to create a box or rectangle position.

• To exit: bring feet together, lower arms, and return to sitting.
  

Seated Mermaid🧜‍♀️

• From seated, reach one hand high on the same side pole.

• Rotate hips in the opposite direction until you face the side. Keep legs together like a mermaid fin - extend arm out to finish the line.
  

Seated Spin 🌪️

• While seated, push off the mat with your feet to create spin (or have a friend give you a little push)

• Bend your knees and bring your heels toward you bum to spin faster, extend arms and legs to slow down.

• Remember, always practice 'consensual spinning'—not everyone enjoys spinning!
  

Front Arch Passé 🏹

• Tie the hammock knot close to the ground.

• Step one foot in with a strong flex, cross the silks to create an X near the ankle and stand.

• Bring the free leg through to passé (toe to knee).

• Reach arms up and pass shoulder to the front, and arch forward.

• To exit: pull back and step out.

  
  

Side Tilt 🔷

• From standing in the hammock knot, bend free leg into a passé (toe to knee) position.

• Place same hand to supporting leg about the height of the top of your head with opposite hand below for support.

• Allow knee to point downward with the silk in your hip crease as you lean to the side.

• Once secure, extend bottom arm out to complete the line.

✨ Save this tip for yourself or share it with your students and friends. These shapes are a great reminder that there’s something for everyone in aerial, no matter where you’re starting from.