ACRO

Class Description:

Our Acro Program is designed to further enhance our dancer’s abilities. Acro is not the typical tumbling or gymnastics class.  Each level of acro will work on increased flexibility, balance, strength and muscle control all while learning skills such as handstands, walkovers and aerials. There is an increased amount of acro movement being choreographed into dance genres from hip-hop to contemporary and even jazz and ballet.  IDA offers acro classes so that our dancers can learn these new skills and tricks in a safe, technique-focused environment.  Acro placement is based strictly on skill level rather than age. Once a student passes off all skills required in a level with the acro instructor they will be allowed to move up to the next level.

This is a non-performing class which means they will not perform a routine in the Spring Production

Acro Class Attire:

• Black Leotard (Leotard required for safety)
• Black Fitted Dance Shorts
• Bare Feet
• NO loose/baggy clothing; NO stomachs showing

Our Program

By offering a tumbling and acro program to our students, we will be able to increase our dancers range of skills and enhance their artistry. We aim to provide our students with a strong foundation in dance technique and seamlessly combine it with the precision and athleticism of acrobatic elements. Acro students will learn how to safely and confidently execute skills such as cartwheels, handsprings and aerials, along with improving their strength, balance and flexibility. 

Please note: Acro IS NOT traditional tumbling or gymnastics. Acro is taught with the intention that it will be performed safely on a dance floor or gym floor (not a spring floor). Our acro program is focused on enhancing dancers skills that can be used in all genres. If a student/parent is looking for a program for them to ‘tumble’ or do ‘gymnastics’ this is not the program for them. They should look into a gymnastics or cheer facility. Again, this program is for those whose main focus is dance (not cheerleading, tumbling, parkour, gymnastics, etc). 

Safety

Innovations Dance Academy holds the safety of our dancers and instructors as our utmost priority. All basic skills must be performed correctly before any more advanced skills are introduced. Instructors may only teach or spot skills in which they are qualified. At no time should any acro or tumbling skill be taught by a student.  All acro and tumbling classes are taught in studio with skills being performed on mats (where necessary) and with instructor supervision. No family members, friends or unenrolled students will be allowed in the room during class time so the instructor can give full attention to enrolled students. 

Advancement

Placement in our acro program is based strictly on skill level rather than age. Pass offs for required skills should be conducted by the instructor, at minimum, once per semester. Only when a student passes off all skills required in a level with the Innovations Dance Academy acro or tumbling instructor satisfactorily, they then be allowed to move up to the next level.  In addition to skills, the following will also be considered in moving a student to the next level

• Follows directions
• Respects the instructor(s) 
• Gets along with classmates 
• Complies with dress code 
• Has a good work ethic
• Has consistent attendance
• Physical Stamina/Endurance