When I heard about the Orlando Circus School and its unusual classes, my jaw dropped. Founded and operated by individuals with 17-plus years of experience in the circus and ten years working with Cirque du Soleil, this is the place to try your hand at the German wheel, trampoline tricks and circus acrobatics. So when I learned they opened a flying trapeze class earlier this year, I jumped at the chance to try it out.

I will admit that I was a tad nervous as I approached the group stretching their muscles on the mat. As introductions were made, I eyeballed the huge trapeze contraption over their shoulders and wondered if I would have any natural ability to get me through the class. Very quickly, Rob, Randy and Zane, the trapeze professionals who all perform in Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba, had me feeling at ease. They explained the trapeze can be simple if I listen and do exactly what they tell me.

Ok, seems easy enough. So, I  strapped on the safety harness (which fits like an 18th-century corset), climbed the ladder and let my toes dangle over the edge of the riser, while Zane held me by the harness. When the word “hup” was shouted, which is trapeze for go, I swung through the air as if I knew what I was doing. “Hook ‘em” yelled Randy, so I tucked my legs and hooked my knees over the bar. Next on Randy’s cue, I release my hands from the bar and swung upside down arching my back and reaching out in front of me. At the end, three quick pumps of the legs then a back flip down to the net. All of that from just listening to my instructors and doing what they said. Amazing.

I was completely in love with the flying trapeze when my feet finally hit the ground; and this continued for the next two hours.

By the end of the day, it was time to step up my game by trying a catch. I preformed my previously learned routine and reached for Randy’s hands, connected and released my legs from the bar. Flying through the air only holding on to Randy was a rush.

I can easily say that the flying trapeze class at the Orlando Circus School is, hands down, the most fun I have ever had on a Saturday.

Book your flying trapeze experience by calling 407.965.1552 or visiting www.orlandocircusschool.com.