How Our Aerial Silks and Circus Classes Progress

Curious about how our aerial arts classes are structured? At Kansas City Aerial Arts, we offer a clear class progression so you know exactly where to start—and how to grow. Whether you’re beginning with aerial silks, lyra, trapeze, or sling, our leveled system supports safe skill-building from your first climb to advanced drops and transitions.

Class Progression Overview

New students start in age-appropriate beginner classes, while experienced aerialists may test into a higher level. Here’s how each path progresses:

Class progression chart from Pre-teen and Beginner Aerial through leveled Silks, Sling, Trapeze, Lyra, Rope classes. Levels range from I to III.

Where Should I Start?

Grown-ups who think “I could never do that.”

View Adult Beginner Aerial Classes

Adults (18+): Build strength, creativity, and confidence in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment — no experience needed.

Kids who can’t stop climbing the furniture.

Explore Pre-Teen Aerial Classes

Pre-Teens (Ages 7–12): Kids gain coordination and confidence through playful circus movement, guided by expert youth coaches.

Teens ready to build strength, focus & independence.

Explore Beginner Teen Aerial Classes

Teens (Ages 13–18): Aerial arts help teens develop strength, focus, and independence in a fun, inclusive training space.

Already have aerial experience?

If you’ve trained at another studio or taken classes before, you may be ready to start above Beginner Aerial. Schedule a quick placement evaluation so we can find the right level for you.

Schedule an Evaluation

Class Levels by Apparatus

Each apparatus has a leveled path that builds technical skills, strength, and creativity over time. You’ll advance based on instructor assessment and readiness.

Supporting Your Progress

Our coaching team assesses each student’s readiness to advance at the end of every session. In-class evaluations ensure you’re safe, confident, and ready for new challenges. Progression isn’t rushed—it’s paced to meet your goals and build strong foundational technique.

Explore More Training Resources

Get Circus Strong: Build strength and endurance to prepare for higher levels.
Private Lessons: One-on-one coaching to refine your skills and focus on individual goals.
Workshops: Dive into new skills and progressions in short-term focused sessions.
Open Gym: Practice approved skills independently with coach supervision (Level 1+).
Class Calendar: See upcoming session times and availability for your next step.

Common Questions About Class Progression

Students are evaluated by their instructor near the end of each session. Advancement is based on skill proficiency, consistency, and safety awareness. You’ll receive feedback on what to work on if you’re close but not quite ready to move up.

Not necessarily! Silks and Trapeze are the two foundational apparatus used in our Beginner Aerial classes. You’ll train on both to build strength, coordination, and body awareness before specializing.

Yes. Once you’ve completed Beginner Aerial or level I in your current apparatus, you may explore other paths (like Lyra or Sling) with coach approval. Each path has unique strengths—and many students cross-train to grow as well-rounded aerialists.