Beyond the Tricks Aerial Teaching Retreat
Whether you’re already teaching aerial or on your way, this retreat gives you the hidden curriculum most instructors never get.
Learn frameworks and skills for safe, smart, and supportive aerial teaching - beyond the tricks.
4-day aerial teaching retreat in a world-class studio in the springtime Colorado Mountains May 14-17
At The Barn Minturn near Vail, Colorado
Teaching Workshops in a Beautiful Mountain Studio
Theory-based Cueing Strategy
We'll explore how cues land differently in the different stages of motor learning and with different learning styles. Learn different types of cues and when not to say anything.
Technique Deep Dives
Explore aerial technique like a scientist, learn to recognize patterns and effectively troubleshoot with your students. Instead of giving generic corrections, learn how to adapt to each student’s body and actually change their movement patterns.
Touch, Spotting & Consent Without Second Guessing
Know exactly how and when to use hands-on support without overthinking or crossing boundaries.
You’ll learn how to read the moment, ask clearly, and support students safely and confidently.
How do I identify issues in student alignment & engagement?
Start recognizing the real reason a skill isn’t working - not just guessing or repeating corrections. You’ll learn how to quickly spot patterns and fix them in a way that actually changes the student’s body.
How do I incorporate Body Awareness & Somatic Learning?
Learn how to support students in feeling the details of movement, not just learning the steps to tricks. Enjoy a proprioception and somatic workshop to deepen your own ability to feel and interpret skills.
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How do I reset the room if something unexpected happens?
You will learn specific protocols and scripts for when the classroom environment is disrupted so you don't freeze under pressure. We'll play out different scenarios so you don't feel caught off guard when this happens.
This is for you if:
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You have a consistent aerial practice with 2+ years of experience
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Want to begin teaching or have already started
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Want to be part of an uplifting community of supportive instructors
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Want to learn the "between the lines" of teaching - not just the tricks
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Value student safety, trauma-informed teaching, consent, and ethical teaching
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Are curious about how bodies, nervous systems, and learning actually work
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Want to improve cueing, spotting, and technique troubleshooting​​
"By far the best aerial instruction I’ve ever experienced. Beautiful community and outstanding instruction by Sara and all of the instructors." -Steph Salem
FAQ
Who is eligible?
Anyone who is 18+ and has a consistent aerial practice with 2+ years of experience training.
What apparatus is this for?
This retreat focuses on cross-apparatus skills. We'll explore silks, hammock, hoop and potentially trapeze.
Is this just for new teachers?
This training is designed for teachers at all levels, including those aspiring. The attention on the "between the lines" of teaching fills common gaps in teacher skillset and offers the perfect introduction to those looking to begin.
Is lodging covered?
All workshops and 1 daily meal/refreshments are included. Lodging and transportation are not covered.
Sara Kaiser is an instructor and movement educator whose work brings neuroscience, psychology, learning theories, and trauma-informed instruction to the dynamic world of aerial arts. She is the founder of Wakeful Ascent Aerial Arts, where she develops continuing education and teacher training programs that integrate pedagogy, leadership, empowerment, and technical mastery.
Through years of teaching, interdisciplinary study, and building Bishop, California’s first aerial community +developing Aerial Silks Online, Sara has become known for her technical insight, uplifting teaching style, and ability to synthesize complex ideas into clear, usable frameworks for instructors.
Her BLOOM Aerial teacher training fills gaps in the field by addressing the often unseen factors that shape learning, including cognitive load, nervous system states, memory formation, studio values and culture, boundaries, somatic experiencing, leadership, and safety psychology. Sara's teaching approach considers the many layers of the student and honors the diversity of meanings that aerial brings to peoples' lives.
Whether she is guiding a beginner through their first hammock knot invert (a love language) or working with experienced teachers on facilitating a supportive learning environment, her focus remains the same:
to share the joy and empowerment of aerial arts.