Embarking on an aerial arts or pole fitness journey is an exciting and transformative experience. It challenges your strength, flexibility, and confidence in ways you may never have imagined. But what makes it even better? Sharing the journey with friends! Whether you're just starting out or have been practicing for years, having a friend by your side can make a world of difference. Here’s why bringing a friend along can enhance your experience:
1. Built-In Motivation and Accountability
Staying consistent with any fitness routine can be tough. Some days, you might feel too tired, unmotivated, or hesitant to step into the studio. But when you have a friend in class, skipping is not an option! Research shows that social support increases exercise adherence. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that people who exercise with a partner are more likely to stick to their fitness routines compared to those who work out alone (Lox, Ginis, & Petruzzello, 2019).
2. A Confidence Boost
Trying new things—especially something as physically and mentally demanding as pole or aerial arts—can be intimidating. Having a friend nearby provides emotional support, making it easier to push past fear and self-doubt. According to a study in the Journal of Health Psychology, individuals who received encouragement from friends during workouts had higher self-efficacy and overall confidence in their abilities (Rackow, Scholz, & Hornung, 2015).
3. A Fun and Social Experience
Workouts don’t have to be a chore! Training with friends turns every session into a fun and exciting social activity. A study in Nature Communications found that social influence significantly impacts physical activity levels, meaning that people are more likely to exercise when their friends do (Aral & Nicolaides, 2017). So, by bringing a friend to class, you’re improving your commitment and inspiring them to stay active.
4. Faster Progress Through Partner Drills
Aerial arts and pole fitness often involve spotting and partner drills. With a trusted friend, you can work together to refine techniques, give each other constructive feedback, and assist in new tricks. Research supports the idea that learning is enhanced through social interactions; a study in the Journal of Motor Behavior found that motor skill acquisition improves when individuals engage in cooperative learning (Hodges, Huys, & Starkes, 2007).
5. Facing Challenges Together
There will be times when progress feels slow or when you struggle with a particular move. Having a friend who understands these frustrations makes it easier to keep going. Studies have shown that emotional support from close relationships is linked to increased resilience and perseverance in physical activity settings (Reblin & Uchino, 2008).
6. Sharing Costs and Opportunities
Some studios offer referral discounts, buddy passes, or group class deals. By joining with a friend, you might save on membership fees or workshops. Plus, you can share equipment, like grip aids, knee pads, or aerial hammocks, making it more cost-effective for both of you. While there isn’t as much direct research on cost-sharing in fitness, financial incentives have been shown to increase physical activity participation (Patel et al., 2016).
7. Creating Lasting Memories
The journey in aerial arts and pole fitness isn’t just about getting stronger—it’s about the experiences you gain along the way. From your first climb to your first performance, having a friend to share these milestones with makes them even more special. A review in Emotion found that shared experiences enhance positive emotions, making achievements feel even more rewarding (Boothby, Clark, & Bargh, 2014).
Bring a Friend and Soar Together!
If you’ve been considering inviting a friend to class, go for it! Not only will it enhance your experience, but it may also inspire them to start a fitness journey they never expected. You’ll build strength, confidence, and an incredible bond together—one spin, climb, and inversion at a time.
Have you trained with a friend? Share your experiences in the comments below! ✈️ ✨
References
Aral, S., & Nicolaides, C. (2017). Exercise contagion in a global social network. Nature Communications, 8(1), 14753.
Boothby, E. J., Clark, M. S., & Bargh, J. A. (2014). Shared experiences are amplified. Emotion, 14(6), 1211–1218.
Hodges, N. J., Huys, R., &
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