Aerial chains performing artist Sara Tipton is back at the SLCCC for another explosive workshop!

Aerial Chains Workshop Description

This workshop will focus on some of the basic foundations and few bold transitions and tricks to build an aerial chains practice or routine upon. It will be conducted on looped chains and is suitable for beginners.

This workshop is designed to help you learn chains at your own pace, safely, and with your own style. I will work with you from the ground up so you can take hold of the chains and fly on your own.

We will review rigging, setups, and sizing, and discuss different ways to hang the chains safely.

You will learn how to properly grip the chains to avoid sliding and injury while building the strength to add additional skills at your own pace.

You will learn how to safely condition your body as you work on transitional and foundational movements while using basic biomechanics to ensure physical safety and proper alignment.

We will complete a fun combo and create shapes and lines to help you get started in crafting a routine that is specifically yours!

You will not need an invert to participate, although it will be helpful. The only prerequisite is that you have some kind of aerial arts experience.

Wear long sleeves and form-fitting pants if possible, and cover your midsection. Socks are highly recommended. Pole dance gloves and trapeze boots can be useful when first learning, although neither is necessary.

DISCLAIMER: Chains can be uncomfortable for some and painful for others. Chains can break fingers and pinch the skin.  It’s important to know when you should stop to avoid injury. While some bruising and pinching are a normal part of chain training, you can overdo it. Please be aware of your pain tolerance and be able to speak up if something is going beyond mild pain. You know your body best, but pushing past bruising can result in more serious injuries.

Sara’s Bio (she/her)

Sara is a USAG-sanctioned men’s gymnastics coach and SafeSport trained. She was a competitive gymnast and now enjoys coaching a traveling competitive boys team in Wyoming.

She is an incredibly detailed aerialist and specializes in aerial chains. She focuses heavily on technique, conditioning, and proper alignment to help prevent injury.  As a performer, she can be seen around Salt Lake City at the Salt Lake City Circus Center’s events and performs in Star Valley, Wyoming, with Star Valley Circus, where she began her aerial career on the silks. She offers private aerial chains lessons through the SLCCC, and you can book one by emailing them directly.

Sara’s style is technical and flowing, emphasizing smooth, beautiful transitions and proper conditioning. She prefers a perfect grip over a perfect line for safety reasons.

As a teacher, she meets you at your level, whether you want to learn a specific trick or a fun combo. She will go the extra mile to make sure your experience on the chains is enjoyable and as comfortable as possible.

Most students become addicted to the chains after one lesson with Sara!

Her main goal as a teacher and coach is to keep all athletes who train under her safe and injury-free so that they can do what they love for as long as possible. Sharing her love of gymnastics and aerial chains with others is just a bonus!