The 6th Anniversary Clapham Common Summer Acro Jam
Join us on Saturday 15th July to celebrate 6 years of acro fun in the sun on Clapham Common with a full day of play! It'll be the height of summer so we can expect good weather, good people and good vibes. Acro yoga, slackline and more.
Key Info
We'll be easy to find, just look for the folks getting upside down, lifted high in the air and generally looking like lovers of circus tricks, yoga and dance. If you see slacklines between trees or people climbing/standing on each other that's where we'll be.
When
Saturday 15th July 2023
2pm until Late
Where
Clapham Common near the Bandstand/Pear Tree Cafe
What to bring?
Yourself and a desire to have fun in the sun! If you're planning to do acro it's helpful to bring a mat/blanket and anything else that'll help (chalk, icarian pillows etc). Other kit and props are welcome such as juggling balls/clubs, slacklines, aerial silks/hammocks, gymnastic rings, handstand blocks and canes etc.
We generally share food and picnic on the common so you're welcome to bring snacks and drinks. We suggest going veggie/vegan and non-alcoholic so that it's easier to share. And if you're keen, why not bring a friend or two too, to share the fun!
What to expect
Picture an open picnic for folks who love to get active, get upside down and move! Think acro yoga, slacklining, handstanding, juggling and all sorts of partner and group acrobatic fun. Bring your friends to play or picnic, bring snacks and games and let's have a weekend of fun just like we used to pre-pandemic. We'll also have some pair/trio based acro games if anyone feels like a challenge as well as some acro yoga tasters for newbies.
Some good to know info
Your safety is your own responsibility. Acro is a managed risk activity so please take responsibility for your own safety and that of your partners. This is NOT a class. While many of us are happy and willing to share skills and give a little intro to beginners/newbies, it is really best if you aim to attend some classes beforehand to teach you the fundamentals/basics. You can always contact kwame if you'd like help locating a class.
If you're bringing u18s, please make sure you're happy to supervise them and that you're happy to keep them safe. Likewise if you're bringing dogs (or other pets), ensure that they are kept clear of anyone doing acro/slackline and will not cause problems for others - or just leave them home. Sometimes the excitement can be a bit much for your fur babies - especially if they're not acro animals!
Want to know more about Acro Yoga?
New to acro, or curious about what the fuss is? Here's some of the more commonly asked questions, answered.
What is acro yoga?
Acro Yoga is a mix of yoga, acrobatics, and Thai massage. It's all about trust, connection, and playfulness. There are generally have three roles: the 'base' who's generally at the bottom doing the lifting, the 'flyer' who is the one being lifted by the base, and the 'spotter' who ensures the flyer and base are safe. There are often a few other configurations (especially when we go beyond one base and one flyer), but that's the general gist of things.The practice involves carefully coordinated movements between the base and the flyer, with poses that can range from simple to complex. It's a fantastic way to build strength, flexibility, and balance, while also fostering a strong sense of community and trust.Whether you come for the social side, to learn impressive skills (and/or take a few photos for the 'gram), to foster connection with a partner (or partners), or are just interested in a new hobby, acro's got you covered.
What should I wear to an acro yoga class/jam?
For acro classess it's best to wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows for a wide range of movement. Avoid loose or baggy clothes as they can get in the way or become a safety issue during certain poses - equally, if you're planning to fly, consider avoiding slippery shorts as that can make thing harder. It's also a good idea to avoid clothing with zippers or other hard elements that could potentially hurt you or your partner during the class. We practice acro yoga barefoot, so if you've got a foot injury, infection or another reason to cover up, please do so and look into a pair of grippy socks as we want to keep our partners safe. Otherwise, no special footwear is needed. You might also want to bring along a water bottle to stay hydrated, and a towel if you anticipate working up a sweat. If you're feeling stiff, also consider bringing an extra yoga mat that we can use to create a basing pillow too!
Am I too old for acro?
Unlikely! We have plenty of wonderful acro yogis in the London community of all ages. We have folks coming to our jams in their 60s, 70s and 80s still pulling off flows and skills in the parks! In our community, we pride ourselves on looking after our partners, respecting personal limitations/boundaries and playing safely. Of course, as with any physical activity, injury can happen. We will, of course, aim to take every precaution to help you prevent injury but ultimately, personal risk managment has to be handled by the individual. You are responsible for your own safety.
What is an acro jam?
An Acro Yoga Jam is a fun, community-driven gathering where people who love Acro Yoga come together to practice, play, and create. Generally, we meet in one of London's many parks (Clapham Common, Green Park, Regens Park, Hyde Park are the main ones) though we have a few indoor venues - particularly in winter! They are generally free or low priced as they are community events run for and by the community itself - so can be impromptu in nature.A jam is explicitly not a structured "class" and does not have a teacher leading the group (so please don't go to one looking for a free lesson!); instead, everyone is free to practice at their own pace, try out new poses, and help each other learn and grow. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded people, share experiences, and, most importantly, have a great time while improving your Acro Yoga skills!Often you'll find other activities including slacklining, juggling, contact improve, dancing, handstanding, capoeira and more.
Are there other jams in London?
Yes! There is a regular jam at the Haverstock School in Chalk Farm every Friday night. There is also a Sunday Jam that is in Green Park during the Summer and at the Haverstock School in the winter.
Visit LondonAcro.co.uk for a full list of classes, jams and more info.
Where can I find a teacher?
Visit the London Acro Website or London Acro Instagram Account as they will have the best info.
If you're based in the South West, you can reach out to me directly over on Acro With Kwame.
What should I bring to a Jam?
Bring a yoga mat (or blanket if we're outside), comfortable clothes to play in and anything else you'd like to share such as slacklines; handstand blocks, boards or canes; juggling balls ad clubs etc.In general, almost everything is shared and so please indicate clearly if things are not communal.
Can I take photos at an acro jam?
Consent is key in acro so we ask that you do confirm with other participants first. Although photo and video is generally permitted and many current members of the community know who does and doesn't consent, it is best practice to ask first - even when in a public location.
Please also bear in mind, as an attendee, that the outdoor jams are in a public place. We cannot take responsibility for preventing passers-by from recording/taking photos and so if you want to avoid this you may need to chat to them yourself!
Can I come to an acro jam if I've never been to an acro yoga class before?
Yes, of course. However, it is important to understand that an acro yoga jam is NOT a class - this isn't an opportunity to get a free acro yoga lesson!
Additionally, while there is often informal skill sharing, if you're looking to learn properly please take a class! Jams are the fun, social aspect of acro where you can polish and develop existing skills but they are not a substitute for an organised learning environment. Self-assessment and risk management is absolutely key - you are your own primary spotter.
We strongly suggest checking the London Acro Website for info on learning acro in London.
Can I turn up late to an acro jam?
Sure. Jams are informal and people come and go throughout the day - especially in the summer.
Can I come to an acro jam and not participate?
Absolutely. Outdoor jams are often like a picnic or social in the park. You're welcome to come and just watch! No pressure to join in!
Please note: As indoor space is limited and paid for, if you wish to join an indoor jam there may be a charge regardless of participation in the activities.
Can I bring my child to an acro jam?
Sure, if you're going to watch them. We often have parents and kids - some even participate. Just remember, this isn't free childcare and you need to ensure that they are safe and are respecting other participants. We love the little ones and have several acro parents and acro kids in our community.
Can I bring my dog (or other pet) to an outdoor acro jam?
If you're able to keep them under control and ensure that they aren't bothering other participants, then sure. Safety is an important part of acro and having a dog run up to (or into) someone balancing another person upside down, or crashing into a slackline is dangerous for all. Additionally, it's important to be aware that not everyone is comfortable around dogs and other animals, and they have equal right to enjoy the space too. Putting others at risk and disrespecting our partners is not within our community ethos.If in doubt, consider leaving your pets at home to avoid issues.