The five questions to ask yourself before straddle-ing up
1. "Is this my Passion?"
Before beginning this challenging, exhausting, yet incredibly rewarding journey, you must ask yourself this question. "Is this my passion?" If the answer is a resounding, fist-pumping "YES!" then you are off to an incredible start! Passion is at the core of every awesome Aerial Silks teacher, so much so that it is visible in every trick, transition and gesture, inspiring her students to emulate her beautiful movements and causing them to improve beyond their wildest dreams! Passionate teachers = inspired, joyful and loyal students who will come back for more inspiration again and again!
2. "Have I had enough training?"
It is difficult to define just how many years of training on the Aerial Silks one needs to become an awesome Aerial Silks teacher. If you have a background in dance or gymnastics or you have taught Pilates or Yoga you are likely to have excellent body awareness which gives you a distinct advantage when beginning your Aerial Silks training. In general however, the more time you have spent on the Aerial Silks both in class with as many different teachers as possible and in open workout situations where you can practice tricks and phrases for longer periods of time, the more experience you have to bring to your potential students. I also highly recommend attending a formal teacher training program with a reputable studio to complete your transition from advanced student to qualified teacher.
3. "How can I gain teaching experience?"
Before beginning to teach your own Aerial Silks class, ask to shadow your favorite Aerial Silks teacher(s). More then likely they would love the extra set of eyes (It can be difficult to watch multiple Silks at once!). This is an excellent way to pick up on nuances of communication and demonstration that will inspire you as you develop your own style. Remember to be respectful and 'shadow' without interfering with the flow or structure of the class.
4. "Do I have any contacts?"
The hiring of Aerial Silks teachers usually works on a referral basis. Perhaps you have friends that teach at an Aerial studio? Or you know the owner of the Pole studio on the corner is interested in starting an Aerial program? Scroll thorough the contacts on your phone and begin reaching out to people you think may be interested in your services, you lose nothing by asking and are one step closer to achieving your goal!
5. "Am I willing to give away all that I have learnt?"
This is a biggy and can be a tough pill to swallow but believe me when I say, this is the difference between being a good Aerial Silks teacher and an AWESOME one. To be an awesome Aerial Silks teacher you must be incredibly generous. Your students will know if they have gotten to a certain level and you continue to teach them the same four tricks because they are not 'yours' or you don't perform them so it's ok. It's not ok. Think about what you love about your favorite teachers, more then likely you are continuously challenged by them, as you improve they improve as teachers and the same thing will happen to you. Give it all away (progressively and safely, over time), everything you know and not only will it force you to keep getting better both as an artist and a teacher (though I believe you are also an artist as a teacher) but it will create an authentic and generous environment for your classes to thrive in, ensuring that your students remain loyal to you while feeling empowered and inspired!
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I hope you found this information useful, please use the comments section below to let me know your thoughts. Take care, see you in the air soon!
Best wishes,
Rachel Bowman
www.womackandbowman.com
Co-founder: Womack and Bowman - The Loft
