I’m thrilled to share a variation of the Single Fallen Angel (aka 360 Drop) —a dynamic twist that brings an extra layer of challenge and excitement to your aerial practice! I call it the Twisty Fallen Angel. This skill is appropriate for the Intermediate Level aerialist and can be a bit trickier than it looks. If you’ve already got the Single Fallen Angel down, I’m confident that with a few technique pointers, you’ll be well on your way to nailing this twisty variation.
⬇ Watch the full technique tip in the video below!
Step 1: The Setup
Start by setting up just as you would for a Single Fallen Angel. Invert with split fabrics, crochet your feet upward and cross the fabrics twice behind your back. Wrap your knees from the inside out, threading them through the center. Lift your torso, reach for the poles, extend your legs, and pull yourself into a sitting position. Pass your shoulders forward and perform an Egg Beater with your legs around the tails. Three egg beater wraps for added security.
Step 2: The Twist
With the Single Fallen Angel wrap secure, grasp the poles behind you and start to turn to one side—choose the side that feels most natural. As you rotate, press the poles beneath your bum. Continue turning until you arrive in a pike position with your head lower than your hips. Finally, extend your arms overhead.
Step 3: Safety Check
Before executing the drop, double-check that your leg wraps are secure and that the tails aren’t twisted. Ensure there are at least two wraps on each leg, or add a third for extra security.
Step 4: The Drop
When ready, keep your arms reaching overhead as you lift your torso to the side, as if preparing to kiss the poles. Open your legs into a straddle, pike forward, and extend your arms in a T position. It’s advisable to “walk it down” a few times to familiarize yourself with the movement pathway before fully committing to the drop.
Step 5: Exiting the Move
To exit, unwind the wraps from your legs, invert between the poles in a tuck or pike and extend into a Bird's Nest to release the cross behind your back.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Not Lifting Your Torso: This can lead to an ineffective drop, and the tails might get tangled.
Hesitating: Not committing to the drop can be dangerous and can result in cartwheeling through the center. Practice walking it down until you feel confident.
Inadequate Straddle: Failing to straddle wide enough might cause your legs to kick the poles during the drop.
Skipping the Pike Forward: Not piking forward can make the drop happen too quickly—piking is essential to controlling the descent.
Safety Precautions:
This skill is appropriate for the Intermediate Level aerialist and shouldn't be attempted alone. Please be respectful of your studio's and teacher's policies when it comes to learning new skills.
Ensure your arms open to a T when dropping - diving through the center can result in a fall.
Double-crossing the fabric behind your setup adds extra security and prevents any slipping.
Learning drops with a live instructor and always using a crash mat is advised. I'd love to see you in action - tag #iloveap and @aerialphysique on Instagram.
✨For more technique pointers and skill breakdowns check out Aerial Physique TV - your go-to training resource. Click here to start your free 3-day trial and see why so many aerialists love APTV!
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