Getting Started – FAQS
Where do I start?
If you are new to Aerial Arts & Fitness, start by taking our Introduction to Aerial Hammock class where you’ll get to sample the various class styles while learning foundational poses and terminology. The introductory class will teach you all the basics of moving in and out of the hammock so you can safely and confidently move on to the wide variety of other classes at Fighting Gravity Fitness.
What if I’m not strong enough?
Everyone starts somewhere! Our introductory and beginner level classes are designed to meet you where you are and will help you build foundational strength for aerial arts and fitness. We also offer several different types of conditioning classes where you’ll continue to develop full body strength including Suspension Conditioning, Lyra Conditioning, Aerial Barre, Volée, and Aerial Pilates.
Is there a weight limit?
Absolutely not! Our hammocks are designed to hold over 1,000 pounds and we welcome students of every age, shape, and size.
Do I need to pre-register for class?
Yes, please pre-register as some classes have limited availability. By registering in advance, you’ll reserve your spot and be assigned a hammock/lyra.
What should I wear?
Please wear clothes designed for movement and comfort. For Aerial classes, in particular, please wear a shirt with sleeves (long or short) that covers the armpits to prevent any discomfort under the arms and help keep the hammocks clean. For Lyra, it is recommended to wear long leggings that cover the backs of the knees and shirts with long sleeves. Tank tops are not allowed in Aerial classes – if you arrive wearing a tank top, you will be asked to put on another shirt. Because you will be doing a straddle in the hammocks, it is not recommended to wear short or loose fitting shorts. Tank tops are perfectly acceptable in any non-Aerial class (such as Volée). You can go barefoot or wear socks with grips (also available to purchase). Please leave all jewelry at home. If you wear any jewelry to the studio (including wedding rings!), you will be asked to remove it for the duration of class to protect the hammocks from snagging and tears.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
If you have a yoga mat, please bring it to all aerial or mat yoga classes. If you don’t own a yoga mat, we provide mats for you to use. We do not charge to rent a mat, but do ask that you clean, roll, and return it after class. We will provide padded mats for all Aerial Flips & Tricks, Aerial Dance, and Lyra classes.
We recommend bringing a water bottle with you to all classes. Cold, bottled water is also available to purchase for $1.
How early should I arrive?
For Aerial classes, please arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the class start time in order to fill out your New Client form and get measured for your hammock. If you are taking a Bungee fitness class, please arrive at least 15-minutes prior to class. Once class has begun, late arrivals will not be allowed to enter since this disrupts the class for others.
Where should I park?
Parallel street parking is available directly in front of the studio and all along Cary Street. If no street parking is available, you may also park in the private lot behind the studio building (the entrance is on South Granby Street). Please allow ample time to find parking so that you arrive in the studio 10-15 minutes prior to start time.
What is your cancellation/late arrival/no-show policy?
We get it, things happen! If you need to cancel your class registration, please do so at least four (4) hours prior to your class start time. This allows others the opportunity to take your spot. To avoid a cancellation fee, classes must be cancelled at least four (4) hours prior or by 10:00pm the night before all morning classes. If you reserved a spot, but failed to show up or cancel, you will be charged at $15 no-show fee or lose a class pass (for memberships and class bundles). If the class you didn’t show up for had a person on the waitlist, there will be a full charge of the current drop-in fee, without exceptions. Cancellations can be made the same way you registered through the Mindbody app or by calling 804-937-2664.
What contraindications are associated with Aerial fitness?
It is advised that people with the following conditions should avoid inversions: pregnancy, glaucoma, recent surgery (especially shoulder, eyes, back, hips, hands, or wrist), heart disease, very high or low blood pressure (not controlled by medication), easy onset vertigo or motion sickness, osteoporosis/bone weakness, recent head injury, cerebral sclerosis, propensity for fainting, carpal tunnel syndrome, severe arthritis, sinusitis or head cold, hiatal hernia, disc herniation or acute disco genic disease, recent stroke, artificial hips, Radiculitis (inflammation of nerve root in spine), severe muscle spasms, Botox injections (within 6 hours)
What should I expect in my first Aerial class?
Come with a sense of playfulness and be prepared to have a blast while getting a great workout! Keep an open mind and you’ll be surprised at what you’re able to accomplish, even in your first class. We encourage you to bring your cellphones to take pictures (just make sure to silence them before class). Nail that pose and our friendly instructors will be happy to take photos and videos for you!
Is there anything else I should know?
Before your first class, please be sure to review our studio policies and procedures.