What’s the Difference Between Acro and Aerial?

If you're exploring dance or performing arts programs for your child, you've probably come across the terms Acro and Aerial. While they might sound similar, they’re actually quite different disciplines—each with its own style, skills, and benefits. At Pinnacle Performing Arts, we proudly offer both programs in our Toowoomba studio, and we’re here to help you understand what sets them apart.

Acro: Dance Meets Gymnastics

Acro (short for Acrobatic Dance) combines classical dance technique with acrobatic elements like cartwheels, handstands, walkovers, and partner balances. It’s a floor-based style taught with a strong emphasis on safety, progression, and proper form.

At Pinnacle, we follow the Acrobatic Arts syllabus, a globally recognised training program that ensures dancers build strength, flexibility, balance, and control before attempting more advanced skills. Our Acro classes in Toowoomba are perfect for kids who love to tumble, flip, and move with power and grace.

Key features of Acro:

• Floor-based tricks and transitions

• Integration with dance technique

• Emphasis on strength, flexibility, and alignment

• Builds confidence, body awareness, and resilience

Aerial: Dance in the Air

Aerial involves performing movement and tricks while suspended from apparatus like silks, lyra (aerial hoop), or trapeze. It’s a combination of strength, artistry, and gravity-defying fun. While aerial dance also requires flexibility and control, it introduces unique challenges—like climbing fabric or spinning inside a hoop.

Our Aerial classes in Toowoomba are taught with certified instructors and top-quality equipment. We begin with safety and foundational skills, gradually progressing to more dynamic movements. It’s an incredible outlet for creative expression and builds upper body strength and focus.

Key features of Aerial:

• Uses equipment suspended from the ceiling

• Involves climbing, wrapping, spinning, and hanging

• Develops grip strength, coordination, and endurance

• Encourages creativity and confidence at new heights

Which One is Right for Your Child?

Both Acro and Aerial offer amazing benefits—but they appeal to different types of learners and movers.

• Choose Acro if your child loves being upside down, doing cartwheels across the backyard, or mastering floor tricks with precision.

• Choose Aerial if they’re drawn to climbing, hanging, or the idea of performing in the air like a circus artist.

And of course, many of our students do both! The skills are complementary, and together they help build well-rounded, capable performers.

Interested in Acro or Aerial classes in Toowoomba?
Contact Pinnacle Performing Arts to book a trial class and discover which program your child loves most.