BRATTLEBORO-Recent research is showing that circus arts instruction improves physical literacy and helps develop other cognitive and social-emotional abilities. What does this mean? If you are looking for fitness and friendships, fun and physical engagement, join the circus!
Physical literacy is the knowledge, confidence, and competence to be physically active throughout life. In a multiple-case study on circus arts instruction published in 2022 in the journal Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, it was reported that "circus arts can help students develop physical literacy because it's based on fundamental human body movements, and the activities can engage students regardless of their age, gender, race, interests, or ability level."
But it isn't just the body that can experience benefits.
Two recent reports on community circus programs in New Zealand noted that the teacher and parents found that the students demonstrated "improved motor skills, better teamwork, and increased confidence."
Another study of an Australian circus program for schoolchildren found, among other things, that circus "promotes positive risk-taking both physically and emotionally, in a safe and supported environment, promotes physical health and body awareness, increases self-confidence, and improves social connectedness and leadership skills within the group."
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You don't have to run away as far as Australia and New Zealand to try your hand at circus, as the New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA) in Brattleboro offers a range of classes, workshops, and private lessons for youth, adults, and seniors.
For adults, circus classes offer fitness as well as social connection.
A 2024 article published by FasterCapital titled "Circus Schools: The Amazing World of Circus Arts and How to Join It," reported that "whether you are a beginner or a professional, you will find a welcoming and supportive environment where you can learn new skills, share your passion, and make lasting friendships. Joining the circus community is not only about training and performing, but also about embracing […] creativity, collaboration, and fun."
There are many positive aspects for youth, beyond the physical.
A 2021 article published in the Journal of Refugee Studies reported that "experiencing success through visible progress and holding the positively valued position of a circus artist seemed to contribute to the children's self-esteem. In addition, the mental and physical support received during circus classes could increase interpersonal trust."
After this summer's Olympics, many children and adults have been inspired to try their hand at athletic endeavors. Though the Olympics feature competition, circus acts at their very core are noncompetitive while still fostering the benefits of physical challenges.
While youth learn to juggle, they discover shapes on a low trapeze, help one another cross a tightwire, and build group pyramids that finish in a "ta-da" flourish. They gain dexterity, they learn to communicate as they climb on one another, they get to name a trapeze skill after themselves, and they celebrate together when they succeed.
No one is trying to beat someone else, and the creative variability of circus allows adjustments for each individual who comes through our doors.
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So you're not bendy? We've got non-bendy skills for you. So you are bendy? We've got ways to show off your flexibility.
Not sure about heights? Stay close to the ground in tumbling, juggling, partner balancing. Love the thrill of a pushing yourself higher? Well, swing around over the flying trapeze net and enjoy the view!
At least three summer Olympians were children of artists who performed with me on Cirque du Soleil, so there is a possible correlation for future studies to consider between success in the circus and success in the Olympics.
For now, the opportunity to join the circus may just be down the street - bring yourself, bring your kids, bring your friends, and find friends there.
Options at NECCA start at age 1½ for tots, youth, and teens, plus adult classes through Silver Circus (for those over 60), so you can choose your own adventure.
Get in touch to find how you can join the circus without running away from home.
Serenity Smith Forchion (ssmithforchion@necenterforcircusarts.org) is the founder/producing director of the New England Center for Circus Arts in Brattleboro. For more information, visit circusschool.org or call 802-254-9780. The Commons' Deeper Dive column gives artists, arts organizations, and other nonprofits elbow room to write in first person and/or be unabashedly opinionated, passionate and analytical about their own creative work and events.
This Arts column was submitted to The Commons.