Replies to This Discussion

StudentPermalink Reply by Snowflake on July 18, 2011 at 8:46pm

You're really not supposed to rig in trees because there is no way to determine how much weight a tree branch can hold. But... I do it with my lyra all the time. Just make sure you rig it securely and have someone there to spot you just in case something happens. Good luck and have fun chillin in trees! :D

StudentPermalink Reply by Fleur de Hoops on July 24, 2011 at 7:37pm

Learning by yourself is not recommended. Silks are tricky; it is easy to get them tangled or wrapped improperly around you and injure you.  I know because I've done it already and I was in a class setting. 

As for a tree I would say 'ask a rigger'.  A rigger would know best if it is proper to rig something on a tree branch.  I wouldn't do it because I am unsure of the branches strength.  If at all possible, you could find a local gymnastics club or ymca with high ceilings and see if you can use the space for awhile.  This is what I plan on doing after I have taken at least 10 or more classes.

I know you mentioned a spotter; is the spotter qualified? Do they know what they/you are doing?  If they don't know what to do to help you, they won't be much help. This is why a qualified instructor is the best spotter. 

StudentPermalink Reply by Kathryn on January 16, 2013 at 9:11pm

Lyras don't have the same shock tension for drops. I rig my lyra in a tree all the time but do not do any drops with it. silks are much different and I have heard that can be very unsafe with more advanced moves.