At the professional level, acrobatics is a demanding sport that requires agility, strength, and a high level of endurance. But that doesn’t mean that this artistic form doesn’t make room for everyone.
In acrobatics, one size definitely does not fit all.
Start with ANY Body Type
It’s true that participating in acrobatics will make a person fitter, stronger, and potentially leaner, as well.
All bodies tend to shrink and grow over time, and any exercise practiced with commitment is sure to foster positive physical results.
It’s only natural that participating in acrobatics can result in body changes like fat loss, muscle development, and increased flexibility.
But you don’t have to start out having the body of a superhero to join in.
With the right attitude, environment, and professional instruction, the sky is literally the limit in acrobatics.
The Most-acrobatic Body Types
Some acrobats are short, some are tall. Some are very muscular and some are more slight. Depending on their area of expertise, they may exhibit more developed musculature in different parts of the body.
For example, an aerial artist may be thin and lithe but have broad, very strong and muscular shoulders due to the climbing she does so much.
A catcher for the flying trapeze might have robust quadriceps from hanging on the trapeze bar and bearing the extra weight of their flyer. But these two body types could also be reversed. It just depends on the individual.
A contortionist might be small and thin, while a hand balancer could have a well developed upper body. The contortionist who is also a hand balancer may have both of these features.
Acrobatic bodies vary from person to person just as they do in the rest of the world.
Acrobatics Artists with All Kind of Body Types
Acrobatics is often perceived by the public as an exclusive club reserved for only one distinct body type: lean, muscular, and toned.
But dig a little deeper into this fascinating world and you will discover an incredible range of body shape, size, and even ability.
Many acrobatic athletes are breaking through barriers in the field, such as aerialists free of legs, and other body parts, people who use wheelchairs, and more. Artists who push the envelope of what it looks like to be an acrobat are also challenging what it means to be one.
Taking a look at body size in acrobatics also shows the variety of shapes and sizes that participate. Sure, there’s a lot of lean and fit body types, but they only tell part of the story.
There are also plenty of examples of plus-sized or abundantly bodied aerial artists, pole dancers, and other artists living their best life in acrobatics.
My Personal Experience and Tips for Beginners
Many acrobatic forms can be accessible to beginners of any body type.
And while it is true that some disciplines like aerial arts and tumbling are just easier when you carry less weight on your frame, it’s also true that slimming down and getting stronger are by-products of any type of exercise.
But weight loss is not the best reason to get into acrobatics. You’ll soon discover that the community, the exhilaration of movement, and the satisfaction of trying something new are far more rewarding than dropping pounds.
It will become an afterthought compared to the joy of being part of a long tradition of entertainment and being one’s personal best.
If you have ever wondered what type of body is best for acrobatics, just look in the mirror. It’s yours! Are you too old to start doing acrobatics? read more.
