CIRCUS
Winter 2025 Schedule
If you are unsure about which class to register your child in, please reach out to us via email or through the 'contact us' link on our website.
Caveat for SSCG Circus Classes:
Success in the circus arts is not obtained in one class or even over a series of classes. Circus skills are acquired through discipline and commitment over time. With society’s obsession with instant gratification, participants will, at the very least, realize the motto of ‘getting out what you put in’.
Rather than focussing on the mastery of skills, our students will be offered the chance to learn the Salt Spring Circus and Gymnastics' core values of participation, patience, practice, perseverance and a positive mindset in order to progress in the circus arts. Students will start at the bottom and work up.
Good fitness levels are an advantage, but grit, a positive attitude and a growth mindset are required to progress in this program. Please ensure all registrants understand that learning in these programs is much more than just mastering the circus skills. We hope all participants will walk away with life skills that will give them increased confidence, fortitude and resilience.
Circus Kids
Ages 8-11
Circus Kids is a fun and engaging class for young athletes who want to explore the exciting world of circus arts. Participants will be introduced to playful yet challenging conditioning exercises, along with basic movements and poses using a variety of circus equipment. Students will experiment with acro-balance, circus props, trapeze, lyra hoop and aerial hammocks all while developing creativity, teamwork, strength, and resilience. This class is physically challenging, but students will build the strength and skills needed to progress at their own pace. Emphasis will be placed on listening, following instructions, and safely exploring new movements, all within a supportive and encouraging environment.
As participants develop their skills, they move through a series of progressive stages, gradually tackling more advanced aerial techniques. However, the emphasis is always on enjoying the journey, rather than rushing to the next level. With a focus on individual strengths, interests, and fitness levels, Circus Kids will help students grow, connect with others, and have fun while building their circus skills
Circus Fundamentals
Ages 12+
Wednesday 6:45-8:15
Circus Fundamentals is an exciting introduction to a variety of circus disciplines, where students will learn foundational conditioning techniques and basic movements on a wide range of circus apparatus. Whether you're new to circus arts or have some experience, this class offers essential skills that prioritize injury prevention while preparing students to progress to intermediate levels. Participants will explore movements and poses on equipment such as static, trapeze, lyra hoop, unicycles, props, partner/group acrobatics, cube, and aerial hammocks.
This class is physically challenging, but no prior experience is required. Students will work at their own pace, learning about their individual capacities and progressing based on their strengths and fitness levels. A strong emphasis will be placed on the ability to listen, follow instructions, and stay focused while learning new skills. With a focus on safe movement, progression, and personal growth, Circus Fundamentals provides a solid foundation for any aspiring circus artist!
Beginner Aerials
Thursday 6:30-8:00
Our Beginner Aerials class introduces participants to the exciting world of aerial arts, using apparatus such as lyra hoop, trapeze, cube and hammock. This class focuses on building a solid foundation of aerial skills, with an emphasis on safety, proper technique, and fun! Whether you're completely new to aerials or looking to refine your basics, you'll learn essential moves, conditioning, and transitions that will help you progress confidently and safely. You will develop strength, flexibility, and coordination, all while having fun in a supportive and safe environment.
IRON STRENGTH ACADEMY (ISA) with Manda & Kipp
Ages 12-18
Saturday 10:15-11:45
ISA not a class for the light hearted…these training sessions are designed to challenge your limits and push beyond what you believe is possible in a fun and supportive environment! This dynamic class combines the best of men’s gymnastics, hand balancing, mobility exercises and circus apparatus progressions to help you build strength, endurance, and a wide range of fitness skills. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, try something new, or improve your athletic abilities, this class is for you! Join ISA and discover just how strong you can become!
