The Upside of Hanging Upside Down: The Health & Mental Perks of Weekly Pole & Aerial Classes

If you've ever found yourself watching pole dancers and aerialists defy gravity with the grace of a circus performer and the strength of a superhero, you might have thought, "That looks amazing... but also terrifying." And yet, thousands of people around the world have discovered that spending their free time suspended in the air is one of the best things they can do for their bodies and minds.

Science agrees! Regular pole and aerial training isn’t just about looking cool (though, let’s be honest, that’s a major perk). Studies show it has impressive physical, mental, and social benefits. So, if you need an excuse to justify your weekly obsession with flipping upside down, here it is!

1. Full-Body Strength Like No Other

Pole and aerial arts require a blend of strength, flexibility, and coordination. Aerial and pole fitness significantly improve upper body and core strength. Unlike traditional weightlifting, pole and aerial movements require functional strength, meaning you're lifting and controlling your own body weight in every possible direction. Essentially, you’re getting the gains of a gymnast without the childhood training regimen.

Bonus Fun Fact:

Your forearms will become ridiculously strong. Expect to crush jars, handshake competitions, and your enemies (if necessary) with ease.

2. Better Mental Health: Aerial Therapy, Anyone?

Exercise is a well-documented mood booster, thanks to endorphins. But pole and aerial arts take it to another level by engaging your brain in problem-solving and coordination. In the 2024 article Sporting Mind: The Interplay of Physical Activity and Psychological Health, one of the many benefits of exercise found was that learning complex movement patterns improves cognitive function and mental resilience.

Plus, there’s something about finally nailing that trick you've been working on for weeks that makes you feel invincible. Nothing builds confidence like conquering gravity one move at a time!

Bonus Fun Fact:

Science suggests that inverting your body increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve focus and relieve stress. It’s basically aerial yoga on steroids.

3. The Ultimate Flexibility Hack

Aerial and pole work naturally encourage flexibility because every move requires a combination of strength and stretch. Studies show that improving flexibility reduces the risk of injury and improves overall mobility. Pole and aerial training tends to blend the use of static and dynamic stretching within a well-structured program.

Translation? That full split you've been dreaming of is totally within reach (eventually... if you keep at it).

Bonus Fun Fact:

After a few months of training, you might find yourself unintentionally stretching while waiting in line at the grocery store. Don’t fight it.

4. The Social Upside: Aerialists Are a Special Breed

Let’s talk about the most underrated benefit: the pole and aerial community. Studies on group exercise show that people who work out in a group are more likely to stick with their fitness routine. But here’s the real magic: pole and aerial classes are full of supportive, like-minded people who celebrate your wins (big and small) and offer endless encouragement.

Where else will you find a group of people casually discussing and documenting our bruises (“pole kisses”) and fabric burns, swapping grip aid recommendations, and hyping each other up as if you're all training for a superhero audition?

Bonus Fun Fact:

Aerial and pole friends will absolutely cheer for you louder than anyone else in your life. They’ll also remind you to point your toes. Every. Single. Time.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. Whether you’re looking to build strength, boost confidence, increase flexibility, or find an amazing community, pole and aerial arts deliver. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s way more fun than running on a treadmill. So, if you’ve been on the fence about trying it, take this as your sign to go for it. Who knows? You might just find your new obsession, a new group of friends, and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of hanging upside down.

Go forth, defy gravity, and enjoy the ride!