Elevate your aerial arts career with our comprehensive Aerial Teacher Training program, created and powered by the prestigious Circus Arts Institute.

Aerial Teacher Trainings

Shine Fitness Studio proudly presents the Circus Arts Institute Virtual Aerial Teacher Training, the first online teacher training program recognized by the American Circus Educators Circus Arts Safety Network.

This virtual program is designed for current and aspiring aerial arts instructors seeking to enhance their skills, ensure safety, and gain industry-recognized training and certification from the comfort of their own space.

Online Aerial Teacher Training

Dates
March 28-31, 2025

Apparatuses Available
Silks
Hammock (Sling)
Lyra (Hoop)
Trapeze

Rig Points Available at Shine Fitness Studio

  • Intro to Safety & Spotting for Beginners
  • Proper Body Position/Technique & Principles of Body Balancing 
  • Basic Anatomy & Physiology 
  • Injury Prevention & Care 
  • Beginner Warm Up & Cool Down
  • Teacher Classroom Management 
  • Communication Tools
  • Learning Modalities & Evidence Based Teaching 
  • Writing a Lesson Plan
  • Differentiating Skill Levels
  • Basic Intro to Skill Progressions 
  • Intro to Rigging and How to Check Equipment
  • Cuing Vocabulary
  • Beginner Skill Analysis, Risk Analysis and Mitigation
  • Bails & Rescues

What You'll Learn

When you complete the Aerial Teacher Training, you’ll gain:
  • Certificate of Participation: Acknowledging your training with the Circus Arts Institute, recognized as a trusted name in aerial arts instruction.
  • Comprehensive Knowledge: Over 4 days you'll gain skills in safe rigging, spotting, teaching progressions, and creating a supportive learning environment.
  • Hands-On Experience: Practical teaching exercises to help you build confidence as an instructor.
  • Access to Resources: Training materials and handouts, The Aerial Circus Training and Safety Manual: 4th Edition, and access to the Circus Arts Institute Video Library to support your teaching journey.
  • Professional Recognition: Validation of your ability to teach aerial arts safely and effectively, making you a strong candidate for teaching opportunities.
  • Connections in the Industry: A supportive community of peers, mentors, and industry professionals to guide your development.

What You'll Receive

hayley adamson

sara deull

Lauren Taglialatela

Hilary riall

Kasumi Kato

Carrie heller

Meet the circus arts institute trainers

Carrie Heller, M.S.W., is the Founder Emeritus of Circus Arts Institute. Carrie fell in love with circus arts as a child in 1972 while learning from the FSU Flying High Circus performers and has been happily flying through the air ever since. She has been involved with the American Youth Circus Organization since its inception and is the author of the industry’s first The Aerial Circus Training and Safety Manual. Melding together her background as a social worker, play therapist, and circus artist, Carrie served as a Trainer of Trainers for Cirque Du Monde, a Cirque Du Soleil Outreach Program that uses circus arts to help youth around the world. She is passionate about passing on her experience in both adaptive and typically developing circus arts through her trainings. In conjunction with Dr. Lauren Taglialatela Carrie is the co-author of the April 2018 published article entitled: Circus Arts Therapy® fitness and play therapy program shows positive clinical results which appears in the International Journal of Play Therapy (published by the American Psychological Association).

Kasumi Kato began with CAI as a youngster and is a lifelong practitioner of circus and aerial arts. She trained with and led organizations across the USA including Cirque Du Monde and Aloft Aerial Dance.

Now, she is Program Director of the Aerial Teacher Training program and a lead trainer at Circus Arts Institute teaching Fabric, Trapeze, Spanish Web, Corde Lisse, and Acrobatics. Her clownish personality makes her classes lots of fun, and she loves the team-work, strength-building, artistic elements, and self-confidence that are all a part of classes at CAI.

Hilary Riall is a lead trainer who can teach every apparatus. Hilary also assists with Circus Arts Therapy® groups. She's been with CAI since she was 6 years old! She grew up in the circus and says that she loves everything about the circus - from the flying, to the spinning, and all the fun. Her current favorite apparatus is the hammock.

Lauren Taglialatela, PhD teaches Circus Arts Fitness® and assists with Circus Arts Therapy® groups at CAI. Her silly personality fills her classes with fun and laughter. She has been clowning around with Carrie since 1996, and her favorite circus activity is the Spanish Web. For Lauren, circus arts is an exciting escape from her everyday life where she is the General Education Coordinator and also the Chair of the Curriculum Committee for the Department of Psychological Science at Kennesaw State University. She is an expert in thoughtfully scaffolding skills (in the classroom, in the air, and over Zoom) to catalyze success for students and teachers. Lauren’s son is an acrobat-in-training who loves attending CAI’s fitness classes.
In conjunction with Carrie Heller, LCSW, RPT, Lauren co-authored the article Circus Arts Therapy® Fitness and Play Therapy Program Shows Positive Clinical Results, which can be found in the International Journal of Play Therapy, April 2018 edition.

Like many before her, Sara Deull ran away to join the circus at a young age – starting with gymnastics at age four. She first took to the air at seven at Independent Lake Camp. Twenty years later, she continues to learn and develop as a circus artist and teacher. She has trained, performed, and coached with amazing people in Latin America, Europe, Africa and most recently, North America, with Carrie Heller and the Circus Arts Institute! Through the journey, with rigging guidance from a young age under Jonathan Deull, Sara has always focused on ensuring safe rigging practices for herself, and those around her, offering workshops around the world. For Sara, circus is an inspiring and constantly challenging adventure that connects physical, spiritual, and artistic growth for individuals and communities, brings joy to audiences young and old, and demonstrates that nothing is really impossible. Sara ADORES aerial straps and flying trapeze, and co-directing the Ritz Kidz Social Circus program every summer in Newburgh, NY. During the day, she enjoys coaching students from 6 months to 60 years old, and after school enjoys learning from her son Jack at their home in Montreal.

Hayley Adamson is a classically trained mover, performer and instructor from the Atlanta area. She had the good fortune of finding the circus arts in early adulthood after a lifetime of ballet training, and has since never looked back. She received the bulk of her technical training at Circus Center in San Francisco specializing in Aerial Hoop and Contortion, and later learned to teach with Circus Arts Institute in 2017. Hayley was the Lyra trainer for Circus Arts Institute's teacher-training program for 2 years, until taking a hiatus to start a family. She came back in 2021 and currently teaches classes of all levels throughout the Atlanta area to children and adults, performs when she can, and is happy to be back to assist in the Lyra program at Circus Arts Institute.

Payment Plans are available! Secure your spot with a $200 non-refundable registration fee. The remainder will be charged in 2 equal amounts due on January 15 and February 15, 2025. 

Online only

Online Training Course

The Aerial Circus Training & Safety Manual ($75 Value)

Training Manual

Circus Arts Institute Video Library for Your App

Certification of Participation

Virtual Rig Compliance Visit

JOIN

$875

JOIN

Online Training Course

The Aerial Circus Training & Safety Manual ($75 Value)

Training Manual

Circus Arts Institute Video Library for Your App

Certification of Participation

Access to Shine Fitness Studio Facilities
Rig Point
Classroom space for lecture
“Helper” student for practical portion

$975

All Inclusive

Register for a Training

Emma S., Professional Aerialist

"The virtual format allowed me to balance my training with my performance schedule. The quality of instruction was top-notch!"

Frequently asked questions

check out our most asked questions! everything from what to expect, wear, and just general info.

don't see an answer to your question? send us a message at att@shinefitnessstudio.com.

What is the Aerial Teacher Training?

The Circus Arts Institute Aerial Teacher Training is a professional program designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to teach aerial arts safely and effectively.

This training emphasizes rigging safety, spotting techniques, teaching progressions, and effective instruction methods.

Who is this training designed for?

This program is ideal for:
  • Aspiring aerial instructors looking to gain foundational teaching skills.
  • Current instructors seeking to deepen their knowledge or refresh their skills.
  • Experienced aerialists interested in transitioning into teaching.

Participants should have foundational aerial arts experience. Prior teaching experience is not required, but familiarity with basic aerial techniques is recommended.

Why should i choose the circus arts institute aerial teacher training?

The Circus Arts Institute (CAI) is a trusted leader in aerial arts education, renowned for its commitment to safety, professionalism, and quality instruction. Here’s why their training stands out:
  • Gold Standard Certification: Circus Arts Institute's Certificate of Participation is highly respected in the industry, recognized for producing safety-conscious, skilled instructors.
  • Safety First: The curriculum is built around ACE Safety Network Guidelines, with a focus on spotting, rigging, and injury prevention.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Participants gain expertise in teaching progressions, effective instruction methods, and adapting to diverse student needs.
  • Experienced Instructors: Led by the seasoned Circus Arts Institute Trainers, Circus Arts Institute training blends real-world knowledge and mentorship.
  • Inclusive and Accessible: Designed for a wide range of experience levels, the program empowers both aspiring and seasoned instructors.
  • Respected Partnerships: Shine Fitness Studio exclusively hosts Circus Arts Institute aerial teacher trainings, ensuring participants learn in a professional, supportive environment.

By choosing the Circus Arts Institute Aerial Teacher Training, you’re joining a community dedicated to elevating the standards of aerial arts instruction worldwide.

Who is this training designed for?

This program is ideal for:
  • Aspiring aerial instructors looking to gain foundational teaching skills.
  • Current instructors seeking to deepen their knowledge or refresh their skills.
  • Experienced aerialists interested in transitioning into teaching.

Participants should have foundational aerial arts experience. Prior teaching experience is not required, but familiarity with basic aerial techniques is recommended.

Do I need any prior experience or certifications?

While teaching experience is not required, participants should have a basic understanding of aerial arts and foundational skills on their chosen apparatus.

What will i receive?

When you complete the Aerial Teacher Training, you’ll gain:

Certificate of Participation:
Acknowledging your training with the Circus Arts Institute, recognized as a trusted name in aerial arts instruction.

Comprehensive Knowledge:
Over 4 days you'll gain skills in safe rigging, spotting, teaching progressions, and creating a supportive learning environment.

Hands-On Experience:
Practical teaching exercises to help you build confidence as an instructor.
Access to Resources: Training materials and handouts, The Aerial Circus Training and Safety Manual: 4th Edition, and access to the Circus Arts Institute Video Library to support your teaching journey.

Professional Recognition:
Validation of your ability to teach aerial arts safely and effectively, making you a strong candidate for teaching opportunities.

Connections in the Industry:
A supportive community of peers, mentors, and industry professionals to guide your development.

How is this training structured?

The March 2025 session will be conducted online with live virtual classes. Training includes lectures, interactive discussions, and practical teaching exercises. Breaks are scheduled throughout the training to ensure participants have time to rest and refocus. 

A detailed schedule will be shared after registration. 

How do I register?

Register online through the following links:

All Inclusive: Online Teacher Training + Aerial Rig Point at Shine Fitness Studio

Online Teacher Training (You Provide Your Own Aerial Point)

Follow the instructions to complete your enrollment. If you experience any issues during the registration process please call 817.756.1313 or email att@shinefitnessstudio.com.

What is the cost of the training?

We offer two options for the Aerial Teacher Training - 

All Inclusive: Online Teacher Training + Aerial Rig Point at Shine Fitness Studio
For $975, this package provides everything you need for the Online Aerial Teacher Training, including access to a fully compliant aerial rig point at Shine Fitness Studio, a comfortable classroom space for lectures, and a dedicated area for your practical portion. This option ensures you have a safe, professional environment to enhance your training experience. Perfect for participants seeking a convenient, all-inclusive setup!

Online Teacher Training (You Provide Your Own Aerial Point)
For $875, this package covers just the Online Aerial Teacher Training sessions, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own space. Perfect for participants with their own rig point and setup or joining from outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Is there a payment plan?

Yes, you can make a $200 non-refundable registration fee to secure your spot. The remainder will be charged in 2 equal amounts due on January 15 and February 15, 2025. 

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! We offer a 10% discount to active members of Shine Fitness Studio, American Circus Educators, and returning Circus Arts Institute trainees.

Shine Fitness Studio Members
: Members have receive a 10% discount PLUS free access to Shine Points during the training. Discount auto-applied at checkout.

American Circus Educators:
Save 10% when you have an active AYCO/ACE membership. Email your proof of membership to att@shinefitnessstudio.com to receive your discount code.

Team Trainings:
We offer a group discount to organizations that send more than 3 participants to the training. Please reach out to att@shinefitnessstudio.com for more information.

Discounts cannot be combined and are only valid for the Aerial Teacher Training. Discount codes expire 45 days before training.

Do I need an aerial rig point?

Aerial rig points are available at Shine Fitness Studio:
  • Shine members with an active membership at the time of training can access these points for free during the training.
  • Non-members may rent Shine Points for an additional fee.

If you are not local and joining virtually, you must have access to an aerial point that meets ACE Safety Network Guidelines. Additionally, your rig must pass a Rig Compliance Visit to ensure safety. Contact us at att@shinefitnessstudio.com for more information on this process.

What is your refund and transfer policy?

We do not offer refunds. If you can’t attend the training, you may transfer your registration to a future training session within 1 year of purchase.

Contact us at att@shinefitnessstudio.com for assistance.

What happens if the Aerial Teacher Training does not meet the minimum number of attendees?

We require a minimum of 6 attendees for this training. If we do not meet this threshold, you will have the option to transfer your registration to a different training, receive a refund, or schedule a private or semi-priatve training session (additional fees may apply).

What happens if I miss a session of the training?

Attendance is important for receiving your certificate of participation. If you anticipate missing a session, let us know as soon as possible. Recordings may be available for review, but participation in all live sessions is strongly encouraged.

What do I need to attend the training?

For the online training, you’ll need:
  • A stable internet connection.
  • A computer or tablet with a webcam and microphone.
  • Access to an aerial rig point (either at Shine or your own space) that meets ACE Safety Network Guidelines. If you’re using your own rig point, a Rig Compliance Visit must be completed before training. Contact us at att@shinefitnessstudio.com for more information on this process.
  • Access to the aerial apparatus that you are taking the training for.
  • Access to a "student" helper that is available during the practical portions for demonstration. This helper can be another Aerial Teacher Training trainee taking the March 2025 session with you.

Where will the training be held?

The March 2025 Aerial Teacher Training is an online training program. All sessions will be conducted live via Zoom or Google Meet. Links and access instructions will be provided to attendees at least 2 weeks before the training.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable, fitted athletic clothing that allows for movement.

Can I teach at Shine after completing this training?

Teaching at Shine is possible, but a certificate of participation does not guarantee employment. Interested participants can inquire about teaching opportunities by contacting att@shinefitnessstudio.com.

Will I have access to training materials afterward?

Yes! You’ll retain access to any resources provided during the training, such as manuals and recordings (if available). All ATT Trainees will also be added to our mailing list to receive aerial teacher tips and information about future trainings.

Coming soon: Circus Arts Institute
 Trainee Network - a space for past trainees to connect with other Circus Arts Institute trainees and access additional resources exclusive to ATT Alumni.

Is there homework or testing?

Yes, there may be light assignments or exercises to help reinforce your learning. There will also be a final evaluation to ensure you’ve mastered the material.

Do you offer other training levels?

Yes! We offer Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced level teacher trainings. Your first step to the other levels is to complete the Beginner Teacher Training. Intermediate and Advanced trainings are coming soon!

I can't attend this training. When is your next training?

We're actively working to bring more aerial teacher trainings in 2025. Be on the lookout for updates by letting us know your interested below and following us on the Shine Fitness Studio social media.

Thank you!

Interested in learning more?