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Where to play in Asheville: FLOW JAM at the YMCA Thursdays 8-10 pm Free Open to all flow artists. You do not need to be a member of the YMCA, just sign in at the front desk and they will direct you to the jam space. There is a full wall of mirrors, hoola-hoops to play with, and a selection of tumbling mats. Come ready to play with others and try new things!
CIRCUS JAM at the LANDING Thursdays 8-11 pm Donation An eclectic jam where you will find various circus arts, acro enthusiasts, and dancers practicing and playing together. You will find a selection of tumbling mats, aerial apparatus, and sometimes a slack line. To find the jam space walk directly back from the driveway to building “D” or ask any of the residents or friends of The Landing. Please remember to park on the street, and check in with a jam ambassador when you arrive.
OPEN GYM at TOY BOAT Sundays 4-6 pm $3 This is a weekly open gym style circus practice space. The ceilings are high and there’s an assortment of wrestling mats to work on. Folks who have taken a certain number of fundamental aerial classes are welcome to practice on their equipment. You will often find folks doing acro, juggling, silks, and trapeze.
JAMSHOP at VEDA STUDIOS Special event Donation $3-5 Play with a purpose. This is a facilitated Acro Yoga jam focused on community building and skill sharing. Join us in a led warm up and short group activity or game, followed by open play time to practice your skills in a safe and supported environment.
Outside: When the weather is fine, acroyogis will spontaneously gather in grassy open spaces to play on each other’s feet. Likely places include the Botanical Gardens and Carrier Park. Look for posts on the Acro Yoga Asheville facebook group, or shout out to start a jam!
What is a Jam? An Acroyoga jam is an open space for practice and skill share in a community oriented environment. It is a great opportunity to refine and expand your skills by playing with a variety of people, and hone your own knowledge by teaching others. We embrace and encourage clear communication, accurate self assessment, and empowered play. Our mutual intention is to create a safe container for the sharing and exploration of Acroyoga, in an environment that is welcoming to all. Come alone or bring a friend, but be open to working with new people and a variety of abilities. Be responsible for your own body, including warming up and communicating about injuries.
Have fun and remember: Don’t be shy! Everyone was a beginner once. Don’t give up! It takes time. Sometimes a long time.. Play with all types, all roles. Diversify Ground up. Start with the foundations. Build skill and technique. Safety – be aware of your surroundings. Accurate Self Assessment Always! Learn how to spot!! The presence of a confident and trusted spot is invaluable. YOU will be invaluable.
the Art of Spotting An integral part of the acro trio, the Spotter is critical for executing unfamiliar or advanced moves. This role involves not only keeping us physically safe, but also helping to facilitate the process or execution of a skill or move. Providing communication between Flyer and Base, outside perspective, and coaching. Know your comfort level and ability as a spot, and don’t forget to practice!
Spotting Basics:
Active Spotting is being present and attentive. Know where is the potential for danger. Know what move is being attempted and the direction of movement. Don’t get in the way and keep yourself safe.
Ninja Stance – Goddess or adjusted Warrior Pose, stable but mobile, chest up, spine vertical, bent knees. Use your body, stay close.
Hip Warmer Hands – Hands on when necessary, but sensitive not to take over the balance.
DOWN – If anyone, at any time, for any reason says “down”.. the acrobatic structure moves slowly and safely to the ground.