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Fitness

5 Must-Try Drills to Nail Your Side Aerial

Kaley Willekes

Updated: Oct 9, 2024

If you’ve ever watched a dancer effortlessly glide through a side aerial and thought, I wish I could do that—this post is for you! The side aerial is an iconic skill, combining grace, power, and precision. While it may seem challenging, the right drills can make mastering this skill completely achievable.

Below, I’ve put together six professional-level drills that will help you build the strength, coordination, and confidence needed to conquer your side aerial. Let’s break it down!


1. Knee Cartwheel

Builds leg strength and mimics chest position in the aerial

The knee cartwheel is an excellent starting point. It helps build the leg muscles needed to power through your aerial and focuses on the crucial chest drop that occurs during the move. This drill mimics the chest position you’ll need for the aerial, helping you develop the necessary control.


Pro Tip: Keep your core tight and focus on controlling your chest as you lower into the movement, setting you up for a strong takeoff.


2. Far Arm Cartwheel

Helps with takeoff and mimics the first half of the aerial

This drill is all about mimicking the first half of the side aerial. By focusing on using your far arm, you’ll train your body to move through the initial takeoff and flight phase of the skill. It’s essential for getting the feel of lifting off and propelling yourself through the aerial motion.


Goal: Focus on pushing off your legs and controlling your takeoff, setting the stage for a smooth transition into the aerial.


3. Near Arm Cartwheel

Mimics the landing phase of the aerial

The near arm cartwheel is a perfect drill for practicing the latter part of the side aerial. By using just the arm closest to your starting leg, you’ll train your body to control the landing phase and build confidence in the rotation. This drill helps you become comfortable landing without relying on both hands for support.


Tip: Focus on smooth rotation and keeping your chest upright as you finish the move.


4. Hop Cartwheel

Boosts strength and power for height in the aerial

The hop cartwheel adds an explosive element to your training. By adding a hop at the start of your cartwheel, you’ll engage your jumping muscles, which are critical for getting the necessary height for your aerial. This drill is perfect for building the strength and power needed to elevate off the ground.

Focus: Push through your legs and aim for height, preparing your body for the full aerial takeoff.



5. Pop Cartwheel

Develops speed and rotation for the landing phase

The pop cartwheel is where speed and rotation come into play. As you move through the cartwheel, quickly "pop" your hands off the ground during the second half of the motion. This drill builds the momentum and speed needed to rotate through the air and land the side aerial cleanly.


Pro Tip: Focus on quick hand release and fast rotation, allowing your body to mimic the flight and landing of the aerial.





Putting It All Together

Mastering the side aerial takes practice, but with these six drills, you’ll develop the strength, control, and confidence to make it happen. Each drill is designed to target specific phases of the aerial, from the initial takeoff to the final landing.


Final Tip: Consistency is key! Commit to these drills, and you’ll soon see your side aerial transform from a dream to a reality.




Want More Help? Get Your Free Side Aerial Starter Guide!

Ready to take your training to the next level? Sign up today and receive my Free Side Aerial Starter Guide! This exclusive guide is packed with tips, exercises, and drills designed to fast-track your progress and help you land your side aerial sooner than you think.


Click here to get your free guide and join the aerial journey!




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