American Turners

Who knew that there was a huge gym that trains folks for the circus located right down the road from the Water Tower?!? Not me and I grew up across the street from this place. A quick disclaimer — my review is more an overview as I was there for an event not a paid class.
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend an event with the Louisville independent Business Association (LIBA) at Turners. LIBA had several of the instructors available to show folks how to do beginner moves on the equipment which included silks, trapeze bars, and hanging hoops. I’m getting over a cold, so didn’t try it out for myself, but everyone who did had a great time!
The instructors were so helpful (and flexible) with participants ranging in age from grade school to senior citizens. They demonstrated how to use the apparatus and then talked people through the basics. During a talk later in the evening, one volunteer said that the club has been producing a circus for over 60 years and that people of all ages participate. She had taken up aerial training in her 30s after having two kids!
The friend that went with me was interested in a private session so we checked out their brochure. They offer memberships, classes, birthday parties, and private sessions all at very low cost (way below most gym or club memberships). We had such a great time watching other people try it out, I think we’ll be organizing a ladies’ night soon so we can see if we’re up for the challenge!

This place and organization does a great job with training kids in gymnastics and aerial circus. Social activities, sports, and a full size pool with a diving board are it’s strengths. Weakness is that it is a little beat up but people who join can make a difference here!