Santa Monica Trapeze School — Local services in Santa Monica

FRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIGING ayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyye.

Yup - those were the exact words that came out of my mouth as I took my first swing and tried to do the simple trick. But I lost my grip and landed, actually skidded, on my face. Rope burn is not to be taken lightly and not to be made fun of. That -ish HURTS. Like a mother. And of course, since I was first I had to set the example of what not to do.

Then you take a deep breath and go on.

Anyways, let's back up a bit. I was holding onto a Groupon for almost 2 years and they were really gonna let it expire instead of extending the expiration dates. SO I had to make an appointment. You make an appointment + sign your waivers online (save the planet, yo!). There is confirmation, plus tips and everything that comes via email.

I came for the 2 hour flying trapeze class. I didn't really have lunch for my 2 o'clock class, and had just a coffee in my stomach - which is perfect, because I might yack up something if I actually ate. :) I parked at the 3rd St promenade because the first 90 mins are free and $2 every hour after wards, and warmed up by walking over to the pier.

I got there - and confirmed my spot. They instructed us to follow the yellow ( I think) arrows, but arrows I can confirm) to a padded area. You get introduced to your handlers - there are three. One that hold the rope that is on to you, one on the top of ladders, and one instructor/flyer/catcher person. There are technical terms, but obviously I didn't listen. :) You get placed on the board and that's the order you get to fly - Return flyers go first, then the newbies. You're instructed to start stretching and warming up (and please do! you'll need it and won't feel as bad the next day).

They instruct you with the calls, positions to take, and etc. And of course all the safety procedures and protocols before you make that stomach clenching, hurling, walk up the ladders (which is two ladders tied together) to get up the platform. AND THEN YOU FLY!!!!

And FLY you do. I really really highly recommend that you try this and have all of your friends to come and try this. I can't say enough about the customer service, the photographer, the instructors, the people around you - it's just awesomeness in an afternoon. I can't, can't wait to come back. Did you want to go with me? PM me!!! :)

I hurt so badly afterwards, but OMG I had so much fun. Especially meeting some awesome people - both instructors, long time students, and first time students. The best was seeing these tiny little 5, 6, 7 year old chicas doing this and being a professional and making you look bad. :)

FYI, bring sunscreen if you're part of the day classes - it can get hot and sweaty, even with a cold ocean breeze (which feels awesome)

$35 for all the pictures they take of you and loaded onto a flash drive. If you come back, it's only $10 to load any pictures they take during the next session. You can't bring your own drive, though :( sad panda. The ones they provide are 512 mb thumb drives with their logo imprinted on them.

There's a decent margarita and Mexican place at the end of the pier. Strongly suggest having one after the class to celebrate (21+ of course!)

This place is actually located on the pier right next to the games area.

Awesome views of the beach and ocean.

Can't wait to come back. And YES, this time I won't forget to take off my glasses when I'm about to climb up the ladder. Nerve wrecking, heart pounding, adrenaline rushing, endorphin outload, amazeballs feelings that you incur...

When they say "Ready", it's not a question it's a command. I managed to jump off before I thought twice about what I was doing lol Standing up there waiting for my turn gave me butterflies. Swinging on a trapeze with a view of the pier felt exhilarating. A big thanks to Blaine, Caroline (she also teaches aerial silk) and Kevin for being such great instructors! Big hug for Amy C. for inviting me to this and for JR C. for recording me ;)

Beginners class: I got to hook my knees over the bar, let go of my hands upside down and back flip off the trapeze. Bummer I wasn't fast enough to qualify to do "the catch" with the instructor.

Traffic/Parking: SUCKS BIG TIME!!!! Was late because of it. The class started right on time. Blaine updated me on what I missed in class.

Attire: Nothing baggy. Wear work out clothes, yoga pants/ workout pants and socks.

Price: A bit pricey, we got a groupon.

Tip: TSNY knows what they're doing so you can trust them, don't be afraid to reach for the bar. You can bring a friend inside to cheer you on or take photos of you.

2hr class, I had 4 tries...

Absolutely fantastic! My sister and I did this for her 50th and my 53rd with our kids (12-14) and everyone had a blast! I even did a catch which is the greatest feeling in the world and I never expected to be able to do with only one lesson!! Safety is the number one priority and the teachers are so patient and skilled at helping you figure out what works for you. I had trouble getting my legs up to the bar in between my hands so they showed me how to bring my legs around outside the bar to get them up. And it worked like magic every time!

Best to wear workout attire and pull long hair back. Also best to wear something that covers the back of your knees if you can. And definitely leave extra time for parking before your scheduled class. The area near the pier is very busy. There is a flat-rate garage ($10) right across from the entrance to the pier if you're running late, but you still have to walk halfway down the pier to get to TSNY.

I cannot recommend TSNY enough!! It...