Frequently Asked Questions

If you do not see your question answered below, please contact us!

Common myths and self-limiting beliefs around aerial & pole fitness?

I’m not strong enough, I can’t even do a pull-up…
My body physique isn’t built for aerial /pole, I need to lose weight first…
I have no flexibility…
I can’t dance/I’m too uncoordinated…
I’m too shy/not confident in my body to do it in front of others…
I’m too old…
Aerial/pole is only for women…
I don’t like heights, but still want to be an aerialist…
Pole classes are too sensual, that’s not my style…
People will judge me or make fun of me…

How do I sign up?

You are responsible for booking your own schedule and we make it mighty easy through our online scheduling software. When you have created an account, you can reserve your classes or workshops through our live schedule. That schedule will tell you who’s teaching, at what time, what kind of class or workshop it is and how many spots are open. Classes can be booked up to 30 days in advance.

Do I need to pre-register or can I drop-in for a class?

Pre-registration is required for all of our classes and workshops. This is to ensure that the class is NOT full when you get to the studio. CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT with us by visiting (software being researched)… From there select the class you wish to attend and purchase a single class pass, multiple class pass or membership. (Will edit again in the future when a software is in place.)

It is recommended students sign up at least 24 hours in advance for each class.

Do I need to pay in advance?

Yes! Please register and pay in advance for all classes. Classes fill up quickly at Aerial Life Fitness, so you are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible to the class you would like to attend, to ensure your spot in class. Drop-ins are welcome, but if the class is full, you will not be able to attend.

What type of payments are accepted?

Credit Cards: (AMEX, MasterCard, Discover & Visa) or CASH. Paypal. CashApp.

Who all comes to your classes?

We strive to be an inclusive space for everyone! We have students and instructors of all sizes, ages, genders, strength levels and dance or athletic backgrounds who participate in our classes. We welcome ALL students!! If a participant is under the age of 18, a parent or guardian will need to fill out the liability waiver.

Can I come watch a class? Can my partner come watch a class?

For the comfort of our students, the studio is closed to all non-participants. We do not allow spectators during our weekly classes or workshops. If you would like to bring in guests, we welcome you to rent studio time for your own private event. Your friends and family are invited to spectate at our yearly Studio Showcases as well! You can also catch us around Fort Smith hosting our FREE Pop-Up Events!

What class should I attend first?

“Pilot Intro” will be the first class you will attend! (See Class Descriptions for more details on this class.) Everyone will be REQUIRED to retake this class whether they have taken Aerial Fitness at our location in the past or not. We are under new ownership and this class is used to set the guidelines and safety protocols for our studio.

I have taken Aerial or Pole previously, what class do I come to?

Everyone will be REQUIRED to retake the “Pilot Intro” first, since we are under new ownership, the Intro class will be used to set guidelines for our studio. After that class, get with Erin & Kayla so we can discuss a “testing out” class; where we can assess your present skills and better place you in the proper level class.

What should I expect during my first class

#1: FUN! Is the first thing to expect. #2: You can expect to work hard! So bring your Can-Do Atttitude! 😉 You can expect to love some of the moves you learn, and expect to hate some of the moves. Most of that falls into the FUN part, but here’s the NOT so fun part: you can expect friction burns from the apparatuses, bruising, sore muscles and hands, and blisters/calluses. Expect to leave class with a new awareness of yourself and what you are capable of!

What should I wear/bring to class?

Metal hand jewelry, watches, zippers on clothing, metal accessories, etc are NOT allowed on any apparatus!
You should wear form fitted athletic/yoga attire, tank tops, and sports bras are recommended for protection and support. ***Under garments are not appropriate attire and you will not be allowed to participate if wearing only under garments.***
Pole Classes: We need to have a lot of skin exposed, as you need to stick to the pole. Fabric will slide right off the pole, giving you no grip. Wear shorts and a tank top or sports bra. Avoid applying lotion at least 4+ hours prior to class – oil and metal don’t mix! Bring your own microfiber towel if desired, but these are supplied in studio.
Aerial Classes: We encourage students to wear clothing that covers the backs of their knees and torso for all aerial classes. This will help avoid burns caused by friction with the fabric or hoop. Sometimes layering clothing can help ease the discomfort from the apparatus; leg warmers may be beneficial, but are not necessary.
Erin & Kayla’s recommendations to add to your studio bag: Knee pads, leg warmers & socks, grip aide, extra pair of clothing, and an Aerialist Self-Care Kit! You can find most od these items in studio! 😉

What are your cleaning procedures post-pandemic?

Here at Aerial Life Fitness we dedicate extra time and special precautions to ensure our aerial equipment, all the other props we use and our amenities are the cleanest and most sanitary spaces to comfort your safety during these special times. We follow the most up-to-date cleaning procedures for our aerial apparatuses.

To ensure all equipment/surfaces are cleaned/sanitized thoroughly and dried properly, we will extend time between classes to allow for these extra cleaning measures.
Our poles are cleaned before/after each student begins and as needed during their practice; with the stainless steel material, we use a 50/50 solution of 90% isopropyl alcohol and water to spray on a microfiber towel, to then wipe the pole. The microfiber towels are to be thrown in a separate hamper for laundering at a later time.
Our Lyras & Trapeze are taped with an athletic tape, they will be sprayed with a sanitizing solution after each use and air dried between classes.
Due to the material of our Aerial Fabrics (hammocks and silks), they need a special washer and dryer to be cleaned. They will be washed on a regular basis as the fabric material allows, but in between those times, they will be sprayed with a sanitizing solution and air dried after each class.
Floors will be cleaned after each class with the same alcohol/water solution we use to clean the poles and air dried.
Mats: Vinyl Mats (Pole crash mats, tumbling mats) will be sprayed with cleaning/sanitizing solution between students and after each class. Aerial mats, due to the fabric, will be sprayed with cleaning/sanitizing solution and air dried between classes. Yoga Mats: Students are expected to clean their own yoga mats at the end of class with the supplied cleaning solution.

What if I show up late? Can I still join the class?

You are required to show up at least 10 minutes ahead of class, as we have a strict no late entry policy. Be here early enough to change and be ready to start class on time, or you will not be let in and will not be refunded for the class you missed.

Do I need a dance/fitness background?

Absolutely not! Our instructors themselves are from different backgrounds, some have been in fitness for years and some are new just like you! We can agree that having those backgrounds will give you an advancement in the skills, it is not necessary. Even those that have a background in fitness or dance, will feel awkward and a little shy or embarrassed when they begin their journey with us.

Is everyone young and fit?

No! We have instructors & students of all ages, shapes, sizes, and fitness levels walk through our studio doors. There are young and mature students that enjoy Pole & Aerial Fitness! Age is irrelevant and we have seen that weight is irrelevant too! The most important thing to be able to enjoy our classes is having determination. Determination is the only thing that will separate you from another student. We have seen 50+ year old bodies perform just as well as a 20 year old body. You will be amazed at what you can do with determination!

I have no upper body strength, can I still do Aerial?

The answer is YES! We will teach you everything you need to know on how to become stronger in your upper body, core and all over body fitness. Pole & Aerial is unlike any other fitness regime. We all start at the same level and increase from there; instructors use regressions and progressions according to the student’s ability to keep them challenged but also accomplished in their skills.

How long does it take to become a Pro?

Everyone progresses at different paces and it depends on your personal goals and determination. You will start to feel fairly accomplished in 6-7 classes in most cases. Attending classes consistently helps you progress further! We recommend giving yourself about 6 months to assess how far you have come. You might be surprised what you can accomplish in a short time, and have lots of fun doing it!

Can I wear my Heels to Pole Craft Class?

Here at BeWinged, we take Heels seriously, they are another apparatus after all! Heels/Stilettos or Pleasers look great but make it harder initially and the proper techniques need to be crafted before successfully flowing on those toes! Our Heel Craft introduction is designed for those with no prior heels experience. Heels with the proper rubber bottom, are the safest and most appropriate for these classes. Street shoes are not allowed on the dance floor. Regular high heels are not allowed, unless specified in a specific workshop. Heel Craft will be part of our Carnal Craft Series, occasional workshops or other classes that are specified using the use of Heels/Pleasers.

Are Pole & Aerial classes open for any level?

Some classes on the schedule welcome all levels, and some require a skill level. Classes are clearly marked as: ALL LEVELS, LEVEL 1-LEVEL 6/ 101-303 (Beginner-Advanced). If it doesn’t say a level, anyone can take that class. We have a curriculum that we have built to ensure you are in the level you need to be in for your skill set, and “gradings” will be held before students are able to advance to the next level.

Are there changing rooms in the studio? Showers?

To be determined after we find a space…

What are your hours?

We are open Monday-Saturday. Our class times vary and may change as we grow! We are closed on Sunday, and reserve the studio on this day for Parties!

Is there parking?

Yes! There is plenty of parking!

Is your studio inclusive?

Yes! We strive to be inclusive for all genders and identities. Everyone is allowed to take our program! The world we live in is constantly evolving, and our goal is to evolve with it. Aerial Fitness/Arts are also an ever-evolving sport, and many of the practices started from men. You may be surprised to find that men are becoming a more common sight in Pole & Aerial. Almost all competitions now offer a men’s division. All genders/identities are welcomed at parties, group lessons and private events!

Will I have to share an Apparatus or Pole?

Class sizes are limited, that means you will hardly have to share an apparatus! In times of full classes, you may share ONLY with the instructor while they demonstrate moves. We have 6 Poles at our studio, 6 Aerial Hammocks, X Lyras & 1 Trapeze. X Silks.

Is there a weight limit for Aerial or Pole classes?

Our studio hammocks are rated to hold up to 350 pounds. Our poles are reinforced, permanently installed to withhold up to 350 pounds. We have the Aerial Rigging knowledge to properly install all hardware and apparatuses in the most effective way so that these weights aren’t ever an issue. Each piece of hardware that we purchase is rated to withstand the forces of Aerial, all hardware has a WLL (Working Load Limit) of at least 5,000 lbs and will be routinely inspected to ensure safety.

What if I have a disability or special needs?

We advise students to inform the instructor of all previous, current, or on-going injuries or health issues before class starts. This allows the instructor to give the proper modifications to further keep you safe and free from further injury. Students may also add this to their student account so these are on file for all staff to see. Contact Erin & Kayla so we can discuss this further if you have any concerns.

What if I’m afraid of heights, but I really want to FLY?

This is no problem! All poses that we begin with are low-grounded poses, where we barely take our feet off the ground. This gives you the time you need to get comfortable with finding your balance in the air, and get use to the feel of FLYing! Enjoy our low-flow and grounded classes that still give you a chance to be an aerialist, when you can’t overcome those scary heights!

Do you sell Grip Aides?

Yes! Pole Grip Aides that are supplied in-studio for purchase: Girlie Grip and EnviroGrip. See our “Merch” section for more details on these items! Grip Powder will also be supplied in-studio for Lyra and Aerial.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Please familiarize yourself with our Terms & Conditions so you are up-to-date on current studio procedures and prepared for your first class, party or event with Aerial Life Fitness!

Studio Conditions:

Rocking Attitude: Healthy and Positive vibes ONLY!! Aerial Life Fitness prides itself on being a sanctuary from the outside world! When you are in the studio, please leave all your troubles behind and get ready to have fun! No drama, no way! We will NOT tolerate drama, bullying, or negative, disrespecting of instructors and/or other students and their personal spaces. If there is an issue with another student, please speak to the instructor. Warnings will be given to those that can’t follow these guidelines, more than one warning could result in a probation period or termination of membership.
Instruction During Class: Please be respectful of your instructor and do not instruct other students. Each instructor at Aerial Life Fitness has been specially trained in the proper techniques for your safety. If someone asks you for help, direct them to the instructor. Only moves being taught during that specific class time are permitted to be executed. Warnings will be given to those that can’t follow the instructors curriculum, more than one warning could result in a probation period or termination of membership.
Proper Attire & Hygiene: We ask that you please follow healthy hygiene practices before class/during your time at our studio, washing hands after bathroom breaks, smoking, etc. We require healthy hygiene practices as we are near and in-close contact with each other, especially while spotting moves. This is important and respectful during these types of classes. We ask that you please avoid using any heavily scented perfumes as some are sensitive to these smells. Nudity is NOT allowed in the studio. In order to keep a pleasant experience for everyone, please wear the appropriate athletic pole/yoga wear that is form-fitting and that sufficiently covers private areas. Proper attire must be worn at all times, underwear/garments are NOT allowed at anytime. Appropriate attire for POLE classes include: a t-shirt or tank top, sports bra, and form-fitted shorts. Appropriate attire for AERIAL/LYRA classes include: leggings or form-fitted yoga wear, a sports bra and tank top, or a leotard. Long sleeves are sometimes recommended. Please DO NOT wear sweatpants, loose-fitting pants or baggy shorts, unless specified in workshops. Street shoes are NOT allowed in the studio.
Food & Beverage: Water and drinks will be allowed. We will NOT allow any types of food in the studio, except for parties and other special occasions. We will sell water, sports drinks and protein bars, these items are allowed in the studio. If you bring your own drinks, we ask that they are contained in a spill-proof container.
Aerial Safety: The main safety precautions we practice here at FSAF while doing aerial fitness is to REMOVE any type of hand/wrist jewelry. Not only will you damage our equipment, but most importantly, you risk injury to yourself. And no one wants a degloved finger. Plus, your precious jewelry will NOT be replaced if it is damaged. While working with stainless steel apparatuses, this material requires that you do NOT apply lotion to your skin at least 4+ hours prior to class. This is a safety precaution, as most lotions have an oily residue, and will hinder your grip and technique.
Cell Phone Usage: Cell phone use during class is prohibited, it’s not only rude, but distracting as it could prevent someone from hearing special instructions during class. Please respect the instructors and fellow students by turning your cell phones off or muting the volume. We understand that emergencies happen, if you need to take an emergency call, please excuse yourself from the room. This applies to text messaging as well. Thanks for your corporation!
Pictures & Filming: We all know taking pictures of our newly acquired skills to share with friends and family is rewarding, but we ask you to respect other student’s privacy and refrain from taking pictures and filming during classes. If you want to take pictures of or film yourself, you are welcome to do so during the following times: Private Parties, Private Lessons, Private Space Rentals, Open Practice, or any time after class! There may be times when the instructor asks the group to film part of the class to help grow our studio content, which will be requested and noted beforehand, so you may sit that time out if you wish to not be filmed. If you wish to film another student, please ask permission as to not impose on their personal rights.
Gender: Here at FSAF, we strive to be INCLUSIVE for all! We welcome & support all gender identities & expressions!
Age Requirements: Students ages 16+ can attend our regular classes, with parent consent and signed waivers. We require students to be 18+ to attend our Carnal Craft classes and sensual-themed workshops. (Ages subject to change according to our Insurance Policy.)
- Children Under 16: Students ages 7-16 can attend our Cirque Kids/Teens, with parent consent and signed waivers. (Ages subject to change according to our Insurance Policy.)

Late Cancels & No-Shows: Please DO NOT be late!! The doors will be LOCKED and you will NOT be let in! There will NOT be refunds on tardiness. This is a safety issue, as you miss the warm-up & conditioning. We ask that you respect both our instructors and other students by showing up on time. IF YOU ARE MORE THAN FIVE MINUTES LATE TO CLASS, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO GIVE YOUR SPOT TO ANOTHER STUDENT ON THE WAITLIST. YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO JOIN THE CLASS AND WILL NOT BE REFUNDED YOUR MONEY. You should be dressed and ready to start your session at the scheduled time. We suggest that you arrive to the studio at least 10 minutes before your scheduled class, if you need to change into class attire. We are very strict about this rule, so we CANNOT make exceptions, even if students say they didn’t know about it. Reminders are included in all of our class booking emails! Late arrivals will be considered as a LATE CANCEL.

Registration & Sign-Up: We are a small, personalized fitness studio with limited equipment and limited spaces available for each class. Therefore, our policy requires students to register and sign up for each class. Unfortunately, in the event that a class has low or no participation, that class may be cancelled at the discretion of the owner or instructor. In the event that you are scheduled for a class that is cancelled, the system will send you an email. PLEASE make sure you have a VALID email on file in your account. All new students are required to sign a waiver form. It is your responsibility to preregister for all classes as our classes fill up fast! To ensure your spot in the event of classes reaching capacity; we recommend signing up at least 24 hours before class to ensure your spot!

Cancellations: At Fort Smith Aerial Fitness we have a strict cancellation policy! Please make sure you can make the class you register for. We understand things can come up last minute, we allow a time frame for you to reschedule. There are NO refunds on LATE CANCELS.

Class Cancellation: As long as you cancel 24 hours before your scheduled class/waitlist, you will not lose that class. This allows us adequate time to fill the empty spot.
Membership Cancellation: Canceling is to permanently stop payments and classes due to moving, extended travel or injury. Canceling requires a 2 week notice to stop payment and must have proof of moving or travel. Canceling without a 2 week notice due to an injury requires a doctor’s note. Canceling will result in losing any promotional pricing. For Cancellation, contact fortsmithaerialfitness@gmail.com.
Private Class Cancellation: We ask that you let us know at least 24 hours ahead of time if you need to reschedule a private class; otherwise, you will lose your payment.
Wait-list: When classes are full, you can sign up to be on the wait-list. Frequently, students sign out early from classes, making room for those on the wait-list. When a student signs up for a wait-list, that student should fully intend to come to class, even upon short notice. When you are added to a class from a wait-list, you will receive an automatic email from our scheduling system. Please make sure you have a VALID email address on file in your student account, this is the ONLY way you will be notified. Once added to a class you will be held to the cancellation policy above. If you are not sure you will be able to make a class with short notice, please remove yourself from the wait-list to avoid being charged for a late cancel or no show.

Refunds: ALL SALES ARE FINAL! Class passes and memberships are NON-refundable and NON-transferable. Once you purchase your classes, make sure you know the expiration date and use all classes BEFORE that date. We will not extend the expiration date.

Memberships & Pricing: Memberships agreed upon by both parties will be honored through the term of the contract. Pricing for any and all services may be changed or altered at any time at the discretion of Fort Smith Aerial Fitness.

Workshops: Workshops are NON-refundable! We must receive at least 24 hours notice to RESCHEDULE in-studio instructor taught workshops. Workshops taught by a GUEST instructor are NON-refundable and CANNOT be rescheduled.

Space Rentals: Space rentals for members are for personal use (practice, rehearsals, filming, etc.), and are not for profit purposes. A 24-hour cancellation applies when booking a private space rental; you will NOT be refunded your money if you cancel less than 24 hours ahead of time. Space rentals are by the hour; we do not do half-hour rentals.

Parties & Events: Parties and Events require a 50% non-refundable retainer fee due at time of booking to lock in the date/time and goes towards your total bill. We require the ending balance of the total bill to be paid within 7 days of the event/party date.

We require a 48 hour notice to reschedule your party for the next available date. All party participants must sign our student waiver before attending.
Events that are cancelled due to inclement weather on the day of the event, will be rescheduled for the next available date.

Privacy: Protecting your private information is our priority. This Statement of Privacy applies to the www.fortsmithaerialfitnessstudio.com and Fort Smith Aerial Fitness and governs data collection and usage. By using the Fort Smith Aerial Fitness website, you consent to the data practices described in this statement.

Collection of Your Personal Info: Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may collect personally identifiable information, such as your name. If you purchase Fort Smith Aerial Fitness products and services, we collect billing and credit card information. This information is used to complete the purchase transaction. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may also collect anonymous demographic information, which is not unique to you, such as your age and gender. We may gather additional personal or non-personal information in the future.Information about your computer hardware and software may be automatically collected by Fort Smith Aerial Fitness. This information can include: your IP address, browser type, domain names, access times and referring website addresses. This information is used for the operation of the service, to maintain quality of the service, and to provide general statistics regarding use of the Fort Smith Aerial Fitness website. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness encourages you to review the privacy statements of websites you choose to link to from Fort Smith Aerial Fitness so that you can understand how those websites collect, use and share your information. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness is not responsible for the privacy statements or other content on websites outside of the Fort Smith Aerial Fitness website.

Use of Your Your Personal Info: Fort Smith Aerial Fitness collects and uses your personal information to operate its website(s) and deliver the services you have requested. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may also use your personally identifiable information to inform you of other products or services available from Fort Smith Aerial Fitness and its affiliates. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may also contact you via surveys to conduct research about your opinion of current services or of potential new services that may be offered. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness does not sell, rent or lease its customer lists to third parties. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may share data with trusted partners to help perform statistical analysis, send you email or postal mail, provide customer support, or arrange for deliveries. All such third parties are prohibited from using your personal information except to provide these services to Fort Smith Aerial Fitness, and they are required to maintain the confidentiality of your information. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness may keep track of the websites and pages our users visit within Fort Smith Aerial Fitness, in order to determine what Fort Smith Aerial Fitness services are the most popular. This data is used to deliver customized content and advertising within Fort Smith Aerial Fitness to customers whose behavior indicates that they are interested in a particular subject area. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness will disclose your personal information, without notice, only if required to do so by law or in the good faith belief that such action is necessary to: (a) conform to the edicts of the law or comply with legal process served on Fort Smith Aerial Fitness or the site; (b) protect and defend the rights or property of Fort Smith Aerial Fitness; and, (c) act under exigent circumstances to protect the personal safety of users of Fort Smith Aerial Fitness, or the public.

Security of Your Personal Info: Fort Smith Aerial Fitness secures your personal information from unauthorized access, use or disclosure. When personal information (such as a credit card number) is transmitted to other websites, it is protected through the use of encryption, such as the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol.

Opt-Out & Unsubscribe: We respect your privacy and give you an opportunity to opt-out of receiving announcements of certain information. Users may opt-out of receiving any or all communications from Fort Smith Aerial Fitness by contacting us here: Web page: www.fortsmithaerialfitnessstudio.com. Email: fortsmithaerialfitness@gmail.com. Erin & Kayla: 479-209-XXXX

Changes to this Statement: Fort Smith Aerial Fitness will occasionally update this Statement of Privacy to reflect company and customer feedback. Fort Smith Aerial Fitness encourages you to periodically review this Statement to be informed of how Fort Smith Aerial Fitness is protecting your information.

***Terms & Conditions subject to change upon disclosure.**