Aerial Hoop Spin Theory Workshop

Spin is an elegant and captivating component of many aerial performances, but it’s much harder to grasp than it seems. In this 90 minute workshop, Gena will break down the theory behind spinning and answer questions about how to make it more accessible for your body, training, and tolerance. We’ll cover directional cues, how (and why) to avoid chasing the hoop, different types of spins, where to stand, hand and body placement, how to speed up or slow down, and options to help you achieve your spin goals. This workshop is all about the process of finding your center, getting comfortable with controlling your hoop, and making spin work for you. As with all of Gena’s workshops, this offering is made to support your relationship with the hoop by creating confidence in yourself and your apparatus.

Prerequisites: 

Beginners through advanced aerialists are welcome but are encouraged to increase their spin tolerance beforehand. Anti-nausea supplements (ginger, mint, cinnamon, and cloves) are encouraged, and it’s recommended that you eat a nutritiously dense meal 45 to 60 minutes before the workshop.

Workshop Video:

Gena will be filming this workshop for her virtual aerial education platform, SOAR Lab (not associated with Upside Aerial). If you do not wish to appear in any SOAR Lab videos, mark "No" under video consent when you register. 

About the instructor:

Aerial arts have been Gena's passion since 2009. She has spent well over 10 years navigating her path of creativity with a focus on physical awareness, movement capabilities, and how they pertain to the human body. Her certifications in Pilates, yoga, and personal training complement her aerial coaching. Gena has worked with many artists and dance educators to help perfect her aerial skill set, including Boleyn Willis-Zeger, Rachel Strickland, Shannon McKenna, and Lori Hernandez. Gena is also the founder of SOAR Aerial Dance: an aerial education platform created to fill the gap between recreational aerial arts training and professional development while helping aerialists feel well rounded in their artistry.