In this article by Vertical Wise, author and Pole Dancer Anna Kakoulidi explores the concept of flow in Aerial Acrobatics and how it can be combined to create a unique and breathtaking experience for the audience. It’s an article worth reading to discover the harmony and energy that arise from the combination of these two techniques.
Flow in Aerial Acrobatics
Definition of Flow
In contemporary dance, flow is described as one of the four basic factors that create the dynamics of movement, according to Rudolph Laban’s effort theory.
Psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi explains flow as a state of mind that requires concentration, action, and awareness of where you are while losing your conscious self. Although dance in any form is a challenging art, flow gives the impression to the audience that what they see happens effortlessly for the dancer.
When flow is unrestricted, the dancer has little control over stopping the immediate movement they are making. On the contrary, when their flow is bounded, the dancer has the control to stop their movement at any moment.
Flow is also referred to as something continuous, meaning that momentum or motion doesn’t cease.
Performing tricks, strengthening the body, and understanding one’s position in relation to space requires delicate mobility, agility, and complete concentration. The process of transitioning all the required actions for performing an acrobatic move from the conscious to the subconscious part of the brain happens without us realizing it, and it’s the moment we feel like we have stopped “thinking” about how to execute the movement.
How could we translate this to Aerial Acrobatics? When a student struggles to perform their first exercises, would it be correct to expect them to have flow in what they do?
Eftychia Kourousi (Pole Dancing/Pole Flow instructor) and Katerina Ferekidi (Pole Dancing/Pole Flow/Exotic/Aerial instructor) answer these questions.
Katerina Ferekidi
Can you explain to us in a few sentences what flow in Aerial Acrobatics means to you?
Eftychia Kourousi: Flow is a sequence of movements (either on the ground or in the air, or a combination of both) that aims to transition smoothly from one movement to another.
Katerina Ferekidi: It is the harmonious transition from one trick to another. Where each part of the body will go after completing one trick in order to start the next one beautifully and, most importantly, safely. It provides grace, elegance, endurance, and strength.
What is easier for a beginner student? To understand the technique in Aerial Acrobatics or the smooth transitions between tricks?
E.K.: For a beginner student, both can be challenging since the movements themselves are unfamiliar to them. However, there are cases where students have experience in a sport/dance, and understanding either the flow or the technique is easier for them.
K.F.: I don’t believe there is a difference in how easy it is for a beginner in Aerial Acrobatics to understand the technique of tricks and their transitions. It depends on the student. I think someone who easily grasps the technique can also perceive the transitions. The level of difficulty increases when one tries to follow the technique while maintaining flow simultaneously.
Flow and Technique in Acrobatics. Are there moments when one is more important than the other?
E.K: In my opinion, flow and technique are not interdependent because flow doesn’t necessarily require technical skills (e.g., one can have a dance flow of movements on the ground combined with the use of a pole, without necessarily executing tricks).
K.F: The combination of technique and flow is, in my view, the foundation for someone to learn aerial acrobatics and incorporate it into their life as they wish. Additionally, to some extent, the flow between tricks is part of the technique. That’s why I believe that both trainers should emphasize the importance of flow along with the proper execution and transition in order to ensure safety and good results. Both should be taught with equal dedication.
What advice would you give to a student who struggles with the harmony of their movements?
E.K: It is helpful for the student to practice using simple flow exercises on the ground and then transfer the same logic to the air so that their body gradually recognizes the quality of movement. Dance also greatly aids in understanding the sequence of movements.
K.F: As with all types of dance and gymnastics, in aerial acrobatics, the correct technique and flow between movements can be taught. Therefore, repetition in training and continuous practice can significantly improve the harmony between movements. As the body strengthens, the combinations of movements become more harmonious. Since I associate aerial acrobatics with dance, I recommend finding music that expresses and resonates with you and using a mirror to observe and enhance your performance. These tools always help…
Eftychia Kourousi
How can you try to improve your flow?
Improvise, improvise, improvise!
You may have memorized a choreography, knowing every step, count, and how long to hold each pose, which can give you a sense of security. Initially, play within safe boundaries. Keep the same choreography but change the music to see how the qualities of your movement change. Forget the count and immerse yourself in the music. Hold your poses for half or double the time. Once you surpass your limits, try improvising to a song you like.
Work on your transitions.
In every movement you make, invest time and effort not only in the movement itself but also in the entrance and exit.
Take dance classes.
Contemporary dance, ballet, commercial, hip-hop, flow classes on the pole and silks are some of the options you can explore. Each form and style of dance will provide tremendous help in “unlocking” your body and learning to move in all dimensions of space.
Challenge yourself.
Show something you created to friends. Listen to their opinions. It may feel uncomfortable at first until you get used to it, and your body will naturally loosen up!
In the beginning, we all try to imitate something or someone. It’s our way of learning, and it’s always a starting point. However, the next step is to challenge ourselves, step out of our comfort zone and go beyond the framework.
If you take that step and challenge yourself, then you will surely succeed!
https://www.contemporary-dance.org/dance-terms.html https://flowartsinstitute.com/definitions-of-flow/
