Today we’d like to introduce you to McKenna Wilkins.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was a lifelong equestrian until I stumbled into circus arts. I was working on horse farms after graduating with my bachelors in Agribusiness Management when I was invited to the Acro yoga meetup at Lake Eola. My whole world changed after that.
My fun Acro yoga hobby evolved into performing Partner Acrobatics professionally. The world of circus arts opened up to me. I learned aerial, chair stacking, rolla bolla, juggling, and anything I could get my hands on. Where I really found my passion was in the aerial arts.
I found my home at Soar Athletics where I grew into the aerialist and coach I am today. I enjoy doing a little bit of everything, but I specialize in the Lyra (aerial hoop) and dance trapeze.
Coaching has become one of the most rewarding parts of my life. Everyday I get to do what I love with people who share that passion.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was a leap of faith to walk away from the horse industry, and my education, to venture into a completely different world. As a performer and gig worker life is full of uncertainties and sacrifices. I wake up every morning grateful to be where I am, surrounded by people who support me and want to see me succeed.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an aerialist I train and perform on a variety of apparatuses. Lyra(aerial hoop), dance trapeze, corde lisse(aerial rope), silks, hammock, straps, loops, fly pole, cube, and lollipop lyra. The list is constantly growing.
I feel most at home on the steel apparatuses. I’m known for my love of dynamic movements and creative transitions.
I love one on one coaching and helping students reach their goals, and usually exceed what they thought was possible.
Although aerial is my true love, you might also catch me chair stacking or on the sway pole. I’m always ready, and just brave enough, to try something new.
I’ve recently brought back my Circus Fitness class where you don’t have to be a circus artist to train like one. The class focuses on functional fitness and flexibility. Circus Fitness has always held a special place in my heart since it has brought together so many people from different parts of my life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @house_of_aero
