Aerial refers to any maneuver or acrobatic feat performed in the air, typically as part of a dance, gymnastics, or other athletic discipline. It involves controlled movement of the body, often with the aid of apparatus such as silks, hoops, or trapezes.
The practice of aerial arts dates back centuries, with evidence of acrobatic performances found in ancient Egypt, Greece, and China. Today, aerialists perform in a variety of settings, including circuses, theaters, and dedicated aerial studios. Aerial arts combine elements of dance, acrobatics, and gymnastics, requiring strength, flexibility, coordination, and artistry.