The Value of Repetition

I wanted to share some thoughts with you all about the value of repetition.

This early spring, I was watching a student perform an act that has been very similar for her for quite some time. She has added small things and nuances each time, but to the untrained eye, it might look like it’s the same act. It may be frustrating for parents to see that—I’m not sure—but I wanted to share some thoughts I have about it.

First, aerial is so hard. It takes so many years to develop fluid skill. So if a student is repeating, repeating, repeating, it is probably because they really want it to feel good—to be fluid and smooth like they have seen in the most advanced practitioners.

As parents or coaches, we might want to see new things, but there is so much value in repetition. 

I notice the little nuances and changes, and I love so much when kids can start to add their own personality and flair to what they’re doing. There is a new fluidity that comes when things are done many, many times, and it’s really amazing to see.

It literally takes years and years to gain that comfort and fluidity.

Of course, we are working at pretty significant heights oftentimes, so students have to be very sure of themselves to be able to even carry out the act. Some students really struggle with remembering tricks and remembering choreography. I’m honestly amazed that these kids can do what they can do while practicing only one time a week.

When I have prepared acts to perform, I’m running them several times a week.

So anyway—cheers to your kids, regardless of their style. But for those who would like to repeat, please take note in their meticulousness and attention to detail. There is real artistry in that process.