Thinking you might want to start flying trapeze — but feeling a little unsure? You’re not alone.

Flying trapeze can seem wild, scary, or only for certain “types” of people. But the truth is: it’s more accessible, welcoming, and doable than you might think. At Above and Beyond Circus, we believe that anyone can start flying trapeze — even if you’re nervous, even if you’ve never done anything like it before.

Here’s what you can expect when you take your first swing into the air.

First Things First: It’s Okay to Be Scared

Feeling scared is part of it — and it’s completely normal.

Most of our first-time flyers feel a few butterflies (or a whole swarm!) when they climb the ladder. That’s why our instructors are right there with you, giving calm guidance every step of the way. We focus on small wins — grabbing the bar, taking a swing, trusting the safety belt — so you never feel rushed or pushed too far beyond your comfort zone.

Every flyer moves at their own pace. You don’t have to “get it right” or be perfect. You just have to show up and be willing to try.

Flying Trapeze Myths (That We’re Here to Bust)

If you’ve been wondering whether you can start flying trapeze, you’re probably bumping into a few myths. Let’s clear a few up:

Myth 1: “I’m not strong enough.”

You don’t need loads of upper body strength to begin. Swinging uses momentum, not brute force. We’ll teach you the techniques that make flying feel natural — not a battle against gravity.

Myth 2: “It’s too dangerous.”

Flying trapeze classes are incredibly safe. You’ll wear a safety belt, fly over a safety net, and have an instructor controlling your safety lines at all times.

Myth 3: “It’s only for athletes or gymnasts.”

Nope. Flying trapeze is for everyone — all body types, all ages, all backgrounds. Many of our students are complete beginners who simply want to try something new and thrilling.

Find out about the Benefits of Flying Trapeze!

Find out more and read FAQ’s on our website.

What Happens In Your First Class

• Warm welcome: Meet your instructor and group and hear some of our key safety rules.
• Warm up: our instructors will take you through a comprehensicve warm up so your body and brain is ready to fly through the air!
• Safety Belt fitting: Safety first! You’ll be securely clipped in at all times.
• Ground practice: Learn how to hold the bar and get familiar with the take-off position. You’ll hear exactly what we’ll be doing on the platform – but don’t stress! Our instructors will be with you every step of the way to remind you of the next steps if you need it.
• First swings: You’ll climb the ladder, hold the bar, and take your first swing — with full support and encouragement.
• No pressure: If you need more time or extra tries, that’s totally fine. Every flyer’s journey is unique.

Find out More – What to Expect in Your First Flying Trapeze Class!

Start Flying Trapeze This MAy!

Our Bristol flying trapeze classes starts this May, and it’s the perfect chance to take your first flight in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.

Need a Hand? We Offer a Bursary Spot Every Class

We believe cost shouldn’t be the thing that stops you from trying something incredible.
Every weekend, we offer one free place through our bursary program — no forms, no questions asked.

Just email us on aboveandbeyondaerial.team@gmail.com and ask for the bursary spot. It’s that simple. If you feel this is for you, it’s yours.