Aerial silks is Nicole Walker’s passion – it is abundantly clear as you read this blog. It also puts Nicole in a unique position as a physio with knowledge of what it takes to be involved in this sport and its demands on the body. Here’s Nicole:
What is aerial silks?
Outside of my time as a physiotherapist, I am also an aerialist. Not familiar with aerial silks? Here is a video of me doing my thing – it’s easier to see it than explain it!
My aerial silks journey
I was first introduced to aerial silks back in 2014. A friend from work told me that she had started lessons and I wanted to see what it was all about.
I went from attending casual classes to setting up my own rigging point in a friend’s gym and spending a lot of time researching and teaching myself.
I completed an Aerial Silks teacher training course in 2018 and I started teaching silks in 2019 at PhysiPole Studios in Somerton Park.
I competed in my first national competition in 2019 and have since competed and performed a number of other times in both aerial silks and hoop.
Why I love aerial silks
There are so many reasons why I love aerial silks. I would say the main reason is the way it makes me feel – free, strong and alive.
I feel like I can truly be myself when I am in the air and all of my worries and fears just melt away. I love the the endless opportunities of wrapping yourself up in a silk and gracefully (or trying to be) finding your way out.
Aerial silks is a very physically and mentally challenging sport, but the hard work, sweat, tears – and sometimes even pain – is totally worth it.
Can you get injured? Absolutely!
One thing that has been so helpful for me throughout my journey, is my understanding of the body and how to train safely and effectively.
Over the last few years I have become really interested in helping other aerialists get the best out of their training and staying injury-free.
I have made a lot of mistakes through self teaching, but it has also been so important in helping me grow and become a better aerialist.
Aerial silks as a physio
I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge from other aerialists and physiotherapists from all over the world. Both my knowledge as a physio and my personal experience learning aerial silks has really deepened my understanding of the sport.
As a performer and an instructor, safety is my number one priority.
Being an aerialist is not easy and you have to be prepared to work hard and to be patient. It is also really important to acknowledge that we are not limitless and we need to respect our bodies and train smart.
Injury prevention is so important in aerial silks. However, there isn’t a lot of research on circus artists and injury prevention, training practices and related topics. It is definitely an emerging field.
Aerial silks is such an incredible sport because you can build strength you never knew you were capable of.
Dancing in the air requires not just arm strength, but whole body strength, especially core. And it’s not just about strength, you need flexibility too.
A parting thought
Circus, including aerial silks, may not be for everyone. However, I think finding something that you are passionate about and something that makes you smile is so important.
Being part of a community and meeting new people is also something I am truly grateful for.
What are you passionate about? What gets your body moving? What makes you smile?
To learn more about Nicole, here is a link to her bio.
If you would like to speak with Nicole about any injuries relating to aerial silks, circus or dance, you can organise an appointment by calling 8356 1000 or click on the button to book online.
