How I did it: A friend asked if I'd be willing to perform in a circus for charity so I agreed.  I trained with retired circus performers for about two months and practiced on a low wire set up in my backyard.

Lessons & tips: First, it was a lot tougher than I expected.  I thought it would be some delicate little ballet walk, but really, it's focusing all of your energy and muscle to balance your entire body weight on one tiny spot on your foot.

I was learning on a deadline for a charity event -- if I had it all to do over again, I'd do a lot of core work (yoga. pilates. etc) before I started practicing.

Overall, it was sooooo worth it.  I had a great time, I accomplished a life goal, and it was a really empowering experience.

Next stop, flying trapeze...

Resources: I owe everything to the coaches and staff at Sailor Circus in Sarasota -- they run the longest running children's circus in the world, and were really patient with me.

Nov 27, 2011, 02:34PM PST | 0 comments | 14 cheers