Most people think the art of contortion is the art of being flexible; in reality it is the art of controlling flexibility. Contortion is the ability to be simultaneously strong and flexible, all while making your audience think it’s easy. This class will be a fundamental strength and technique class for those interested in continuing their exploration in the discipline of contortion. Through a variety of flexibility and conditioning techniques we will get your body bendy and work towards developing control, awareness and understanding of the body with regard to the principles of contortion. We will focus on advanced stretching exercises for back bends and splits, and move into contortion style poses that may include forearm stands, handstands, chest stands, bridge variations, bendy acrobatics and more. Rebecca will guide you through the techniques she has learned over years of training and teaching as a circus artist and contortionist.***This class is only 45 min. It is strongly encouraged that you warm yourself up before class. At the start of class time, you should be appropriately warm and ready to begin with splits and backbends. This class does not include a basic warm-up. Please remember to have water and hydrate regularly! Recommended props are 2-4 yoga blocks and a strap. Video is encouraged to document your progress.
Prerequisites: Students will need to submit a 1-2 minute video for approval into the class. Video should include any/all of the following skills that are in your repertoire. Don’t worry if you cannot do these skills, just show your best attempt or closest progression!Bridges - straight arm, straight leg- hands and feet close together or catch ankles-forearm bridgeEntry/ exit into bridge from standingHandstand and/or forearm stand - your choice of leg/body positionChest standSplits - Right and left side
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