norfolk, virginia

inclusive aerial arts

a diverse, safe space for anyone interested in joining the circus community

We welcome all ability levels, limitations, bodies, races, sexualities, genders, and religions.

Take the opportunity to be creative and explore movement in an inclusive, welcoming environment.

about

Ashley Little is the owner and founder of Railroad Aerial Arts. After seeing an Instagram post in 2018, she knew she had to try it and has been hooked ever since! Ashley opened Railroad Aerial Arts because she wanted to make the aerial community more inclusive and inviting.

Adult schedule

railroad aerial arts

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railroad aerial arts ✵

Class

Sling Level 1

Arika Brown
***BEGINNER FRIENDLY*** The aerial sling, also known as a hammock, is made up of silk tied together at the top to create a seat at the bottom. This accessible and beginner-friendly vertical apparatus is also used for aerial pilates. The seat gives you a secure base to explore new movements and body positioning. In this class, we'll work on beginner and foundational moves and focus on getting used to how the sling feels when you're in it or moving around it.  In addition to all the poses, transitions, spins, and upside-down goodness, each class will include a warm-up, light conditioning, stretching, and a cool-down. Railroad Aerial Arts offer a diverse, safe space for anyone who is interested in joining the circus community. We welcome all ability levels and limitations, bodies, races, sexualities, genders, and religions. Take the opportunity to be creative and explore movement in an inclusive and accepting environment! Ready to try something new and get a workout in at the same time? Sign up now!
Thursday April 3, 2025
8:45 PM
-
9:45 PM
60 min
Front Room
$40

Class

Sling Level 1

Arika Brown
***BEGINNER FRIENDLY*** The aerial sling, also known as a hammock, is made up of silk tied together at the top to create a seat at the bottom. This accessible and beginner-friendly vertical apparatus is also used for aerial pilates. The seat gives you a secure base to explore new movements and body positioning. In this class, we'll work on beginner and foundational moves and focus on getting used to how the sling feels when you're in it or moving around it.  In addition to all the poses, transitions, spins, and upside-down goodness, each class will include a warm-up, light conditioning, stretching, and a cool-down. Railroad Aerial Arts offer a diverse, safe space for anyone who is interested in joining the circus community. We welcome all ability levels and limitations, bodies, races, sexualities, genders, and religions. Take the opportunity to be creative and explore movement in an inclusive and accepting environment! Ready to try something new and get a workout in at the same time? Sign up now!
Thursday April 3, 2025
10:00 PM
-
11:00 PM
60 min
Front Room
(Waitlist available)
$40
Join waitlist

Class

Open Studio

Arika Brown
***MUST BE A CURRENT STUDENT (or visiting from another area) AND HAVE PRE-APPROVAL*** Join us for some supervised play time! Choose any of our 5 main apparatuses: hoop, sling, silks, trapeze, and pole. Before choosing your apparatus, please check the schedule. Since we have a limited number of each apparatus, you cannot use the same one as the class going on for the same time. For example, if a hoop class is taking place at the same time, you cannot request to use a hoop, but you can choose any other apparatus. Take this chance to practice something you've learned in class, create a sequence, or just get more comfortable on your apparatus. One of our staff members will be available to answer questions and help with equipment. We require instructor or owner approval before you can sign up for open studio. This is required for every apparatus you want to use. Please don't sign up to try to use a new apparatus. If you haven't been to a class with us or you're a visiting aerialist, please email a video of a recent practice to hello@railroadaerialarts.com (or message us on Instagram) so we can get you practicing! If you sign up without approval, your attendance will be cancelled and your account will be credited.
Thursday April 3, 2025
10:00 PM
-
11:00 PM
60 min
Back Room
(Waitlist available)
$15
Join waitlist

Class

Pole: Intro + Level 1

Tess Leszczyszyn
***BEGINNER FRIENDLY*** Are you curious about pole dancing but feel a bit nervous stepping into the studio for the first time? Don't worry, you're in the right place! Our introductory class is tailored specifically for those who are brand new to pole dancing, providing a comfortable and supportive environment. In this class, we'll start from the very beginning, introducing you to the pole itself and guiding you through basic techniques and movements step by step. Our experienced instructors understand that everyone has to start somewhere, so there's absolutely no pressure to perform perfectly – just come as you are and be prepared to have fun! We'll cover everything you need to know, from how to properly grip the pole to basic spins and poses. Plus, we'll go over important pole class etiquette, so you'll feel confident and comfortable in every session. No matter your age, body type, or fitness level, pole dancing is for everyone. It's not just about mastering impressive tricks; it's about embracing your body, celebrating your individuality, and having fun along the way. No prior dance or fitness experience is required! Railroad Aerial Arts offer a diverse, safe space for anyone who is interested in joining the circus community. We welcome all ability levels and limitations, bodies, races, sexualities, genders, and religions. Take the opportunity to be creative and explore movement in an inclusive and accepting environment! Ready to try something new and get a workout in at the same time? Sign up now! Ages 18+
Thursday April 3, 2025
11:15 PM
-
12:15 AM
60 min
Back Room
$35
Book now

Class

Sling Level 2

Arika Brown
The aerial sling, also known as a hammock, is made up of silk tied together at the top to create a seat at the bottom. In this Level 2 class we will start working on skills higher in the sling and on dynamic movements, like small rolls or mini drops. In addition to all the poses, transitions, spins, and upside-down goodness, each class will include a warm-up, light conditioning, stretching, and a cool-down. Railroad Aerial Arts offer a diverse, safe space for anyone who is interested in joining the circus community. We welcome all ability levels and limitations, bodies, races, sexualities, genders, and religions. Take the opportunity to be creative and explore movement in an inclusive and accepting environment! Ready to try something new and get a workout in at the same time? Sign up now! Ages 16+
Thursday April 3, 2025
11:15 PM
-
12:15 AM
60 min
Front Room
(Waitlist available)
$40
Join waitlist

love from our clients

  • Great experience! My instructor was sweet, informative, and very patient. I felt nervous to attend but she quickly put me at ease. Class was challenging but so fun! It was easy to book a class and the facility was very clean. Overall a truly great experience and I look forward to more classes!

    -Megan

  • This was a great class! Ashley is awesome at tailoring a class to the students, and the ratio of conditioning to apparatus time is just right. The class was accessible for all skill levels and fun. If you’ve been wanting to try out silks, hammock/sling, lyra/hoop, or trapeze, I’d recommend this studio to get you started.

    -Skye

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Before you visit:

  • Wash your hands to remove lotion and oils (they make it harder to grip)

  • Move your body (walking, small arm circles, and crunches are a great way to get your body warm)

  • Listen to some pump-up music

After you visit:

  • Stretch your arms, shoulders, and fingers to help with muscle soreness

  • Sign up for another class!

  • Consider purchasing one of our memberships for more aerial fun!