6 Things to Know Before Finding a Virtual Aerial Coach

Are you feeling stuck in your aerial practice, looking to figure out your next step, or are a complete beginner and don't know where to start? If you answered yes to one of these questions, you may have also considered looking for a virtual aerial coach. Online aerial coaches can open you up to a whole new way of thinking and can offer a broad range of skills that can help diversify your aerial repertoire.

But not all online aerial coaching experiences are created equal. Before you invest your time (and dollars), here are six important things to know that will help you find the best virtual aerial coach for your goals.

1. Find a Coach That Aligns With Your Goals

Look for a coach who doesn’t just offer random Zoom sessions. Find a coach who sits down with you to understand your personal goals, challenges, and weaknesses. Many coaches have their own style and skillsets that may lean strongly towards different facets of aerial, like choreography, performance, strength, or flexibility. The best virtual aerial coaches get to know you personally to align their training with your goals. They give you skills, conditioning, and sequences to work on to progress your aerial practice. Some virtual coaches will also provide you with videos/video tutorials of the skills you work on in your lessons. Make sure you ask questions of your coach before committing, so you can find a coach that helps you achieve your goals

2. Make Sure You Have Access to Safe Equipment

Before signing up for online aerial coaching, you need a safe rigging setup.

If you have an at-home set-up:

Make sure that you have the proper hardware the carabiner, swivels and anchor points to properly hang your equipment. Ensure too that you have safe apparatuses that are hung for a sturdy and rated structure for aerial arts. Your virtual coach may ask question about your set-up to make sure they feel comfortable teaching you within your home. They may be able to provide you with guidance, but remember that it is your responsibility to ensure your at-home set-up is safe for flying.

If you are working out of an aerial studio:

Get clearance from the studio owner or manager for scheduling and taking virtual lessons. Many studios do not allow for virtual lessons as it may be a risk they do not want to take on. This is completely reasonable, and we ask that you respect the wishes of the studio owners. If you would like them to consider allowing you to take virtual lessons in their space, consider a different space rental agreement or contract that is mutually agreed upon. We would hate for one of your lessons to be cut short or cancelled due to not getting the proper clearance from your facility.

For all virtual coaches that you are considering, remember that a good coach prioritizes your safety—even from a distance.

3. Check in On Their Technology

Different coaches are more technologically savvy than others. Make sure that you understand what technology and tools they are using, and what is expected from you. We recommend if you are doing live sessions to use a tool that does not cut off meetings at 45 minutes. This can disrupt the session and productivity. Additionally, are they using a phone or a computer, and do they have a microphone that travels with them. Consider this for yourself too. Do you currently have the technology you need to facilitate a live virtual training session? Are you in an environment where utilizing these tools is effective? If you find that you have technological restrictions, consider your learning style and virtual training needs (see #4 below for more info)

4. Know Your Learning Style

Do you thrive with video libraries you can rewatch, or do you prefer weekly live check-ins and accountability? Different coaches offer different formats, so find one that matches how you learn best. Make sure to communicate how you prefer to learn, and find a coach that aligns with your needs. Also, determine if this is a supplement to other coaching or self-teaching, or if you want this to be your primary fitness regimen. This will help your coach determine how much review to include or if you want to focus mostly on new skill or choreography acquisition.

5. Communication & Support Make a Difference

A great online aerial coach should be responsive, encouraging, and available for questions between sessions. Look for someone who makes you feel supported—not just someone who shows up for the lesson and disappears afterward.

Also, make sure your coach makes you feel seen and supported. Don't feel bad that if after a session or even a dozen sessions, you want to call it quits. Sometimes coaches are temporary, and an understanding coach won't take it personally and will just want what is best for you.

Also, make sure to communicate your schedule and any restrictions you may have to your schedule. Qualified coaches may be busy with their regular classes and/or performances. Make sure your schedules align so you are not left hanging. If you find a coach is tentative to schedule with you or is inconsistent with showing up to virtual sessions, they might not be a good fit for your current needs.

6. Pricing & Value Vary Widely

Prices can range from $50 for a one-off session to several hundred dollars per month for mentorships. Consider what’s included—video reviews, class recordings, access to exclusive content—before deciding what’s worth your investment. Some instructors may offer discounts if you book a bundle of private lessons, versus just one. See what opportunities are available for pricing and don't hesitate to ask questions.

Virtual aerial silks coaching has opened up a world of possibilities for students everywhere. Whether you're training in your living room or backyard, finding the right coach can help you stay consistent, avoid injury, and grow as an aerialist. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and make sure the coach you choose fits your style and goals.

If you want a structured aerial silks or hoop coach that specializes in working with absolutely beginners to professional performers, I would love for you to consider South Dakota Aerial & Arts. We have worked with many aerialists virtually to help level-up their skills. We have built many free online tutorials for absolute beginners and have flexible schedules that can align with your life.

If you'd like to schedule a complimentary introductory call to determine if our virtual coaching is the right fit for you, please fill out this form to arrange a free consultation or send us an email at info@sdaerialarts.com.