CLASS LEVELS

Curious About Levels and Progressions?

Let’s Break It Down!

Many new and returning students wonder how our level system works and what to expect on their aerial journey — so here’s what you need to know!

  • Our Aerial Program: At Aerial Dragons Studios, we are a performance-focused aerial arts studio with a session-based program. We offer four sessions each year, and each session lasts 8 weeks. The final week of every session is our special “Level Up Week,” when instructors check in on each student’s progress and see if they’re ready to move up.

  • Keep in mind: It’s not expected for students to level up every session — specially in the beginner levels (Level 1). This applies for Youth, Teen and Adult Programs.

  • Everyone’s path is beautifully unique. In fact, we encourage our students to take their time and really work on the drills and skills before even considering  moving up. Some skills take longer, and that’s perfectly okay! We want you to truly learn, build strength, and enjoy every step along the way.

Here’s a look at our resident apparatus levels:

  • Silks: Levels 1–5

  • Hammock: Levels 1–4

  • Lyra: Levels 1–4

  • Trapeze: Levels 1–3

  • Rope: Levels 1- 3

How long does it take to level up?


Progress looks different for everyone and depends on several factors, like how often you train, how much extra practice you put in (such as Open Gym), and whether you cross-train with strength or flexibility classes. Here’s a general timeline based on what we typically see at our studio:

Youth, Teen and Adult Programs:

  • Level 1: from 6 months to 1 year.

  • Level 2: Usually 1–2.5 years.

  • Levels 3, 4 & 5: Often about 1.5 to 2 years per level.

Consistency is key! The more consistently you train, the more your skills will grow. Students who come once a week will progress at a different pace than those training twice a week or more — but remember, your journey is yours alone!

The goal is to build a strong foundation and truly master each level. 

Cross-training can also help! Activities like flexibility training, conditioning, dance, yoga, pilates, rock climbing, gymnastics, weight training, or martial arts all boost strength, mobility, endurance, and body awareness — making your aerial skills even stronger.

Keep in mind: Progressing to a higher level on one apparatus doesn’t automatically advance you in others — for example, if you’re Silks Level 2 but new to Trapeze, you’ll still need to start at Trapeze Level 1.

Coming from another studio? Please note: Level placements from other studios may vary, so we encourage you to chat with the instructor of the apparatus and level you’re interested in to ensure you have the right skills before enrolling.

At Aerial Dragons Studios, we believe in your ability to grow at your own pace, set goals that excite you, and soar higher than you ever imagined — like a true dragon! Embrace the journey, trust the process, and enjoy every moment in the air.