As we enter this new chapter, I'm excited to reintroduce a special New Year-themed challenge. While I shared the challenge a couple of years ago, I believe revisiting and reflecting on our progress is rewarding. Whether you've taken on this challenge in the past or you're trying it for the first time, it provides a fantastic opportunity to assess your progress and see how far you've come.
After the holiday break and potential time off, the start of the year is a great time to reestablish your foundation. Sometimes, taking a step back to the basics is the key to unlocking new heights in your practice.
🍭 With all of the 'aerial candy' available at our fingertips on social media, it's tempting to neglect the basics and go for all the fun and fancy stuff. However, just like the timeless saying goes - never underestimate the power of a strong foundation!
Here's your New Year Challenge – complete the following skills on both sides:
✔️ Classic Climb ✔️ Single Foot Lock ✔️ Hip Key ✔️ Catchers ✔️ Same Side Inversion Climb (aim for 3 in a row) *And if you're not yet inverting in the air, that's ok! Substitute with straddle inversions using the hammock knot (5x) and tucks with wrist locks (5x).
See below for a video!
I'd suggest starting with your non-dominant side to get it done first. In addition, be mindful that you're switching that hand that's on the top. Our stronger side tends to want to be the leader in EVERYTHING! If you need to utilize frog legs in your inversions, that's a-okay.
You can use this as an air-bound warm-up for your own practice and if you're a teacher it's a great way to begin classes. It's also good for endurance and an honest way to assess where you're at with some of the basics. For an added challenge aim to complete it all in under 10 minutes.
Give it a try and let me know how it goes! If you record a video tag @aerialphysique & #NewYearAerialChallenge so I can cheer you on.
With encouragement,
Jill