The Wellness Behind the Spectacle: How Circus Arts Foster Physical and Mental Strength

As a sixth-generation circus performer, I’ve spent my entire life immersed in the magic of the circus. But what many people don’t realize is that behind the dazzling performances and breathtaking stunts, circus arts are deeply rooted in wellness—both physical and mental. The strength, agility and focus required to master acts like aerial stunts, contortion, juggling and hand balancing don’t just happen overnight. They come from years of training, discipline, and dedication to total body and mind wellness.

With the upcoming International Circus Festival of Las Vegas, I’m thrilled to not only bring the best circus performers from around the globe to our city but also to shine a light on the incredible amount of wellness that goes into each performance. This festival is more than just entertainment—it’s a celebration of how physical strength, mental resilience, and emotional balance come together to create awe-inspiring performances.

The Connection Between Circus and Wellness

Many people may not realize it, but circus performance is a full-body workout, combining elements of strength training, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Aerialists, for example, must develop incredible upper-body and core strength to support their weight in mid-air while performing graceful movements. Similarly, contortionists need both flexibility and control over their muscles, honing their bodies through daily stretching and strengthening routines.

But physical strength is just one part of the equation. Mental wellness plays an equally important role. When you're performing a high-flying trapeze act or balancing on a tightrope, there’s no room for doubt or hesitation. Circus performers train their minds to stay focused, present, and calm under pressure. This intense mental discipline is a skill that anyone can learn and apply in their own lives—whether it's staying calm in a stressful situation or pushing through challenges with a positive mindset.

As performers, we also rely on mindfulness techniques to stay grounded and centered. Before every performance, we practice deep breathing and visualization exercises to prepare our minds and bodies. These techniques help us stay in the moment and perform at our best, even when the pressure is on. It's a practice of mental fortitude that has tremendous benefits for overall well-being.

The Importance of Community in Wellness

Circus isn’t just about individual performance—it’s about community. In the circus world, we rely on each other for support, encouragement, and safety. Whether you're a flyer or a base in an acrobatic act, trust and communication are key. This sense of teamwork fosters emotional wellness, as performers build strong relationships and a deep sense of belonging.

At the International Circus Festival of Las Vegas, we’re bringing together circus artists from 11 different countries—France, Argentina, Tanzania, Mexico, and more. These performers come from all walks of life but share a common passion for circus arts and a dedication to their craft. Throughout the festival, you'll see incredible acts like aerial stunts, Chinese pole, hand balancing, unicycling, and juggling—all of which demonstrate the perfect balance of physical and mental strength.

One of the most exciting parts of the festival is the opportunity for the audience to get involved. Each attendee will have the chance to vote for their favorite act, with the performer receiving the most votes honored with the Public’s Choice Award during our Gala Show on Nov. 5. This interactivity not only makes the festival more engaging but also helps to build a sense of connection between the performers and the audience, fostering community and shared experience.

Wellness for All

Circus arts are a unique intersection of physical fitness, mental wellness, and emotional balance, but you don’t need to be a circus performer to experience the benefits. Anyone can start incorporating elements of circus training into their own wellness routine—whether it’s taking an aerial yoga class, practicing mindfulness techniques, or simply finding a supportive community to help you reach your goals.

The beauty of the circus is that it shows us what’s possible when we combine strength, focus, and determination. And it reminds us that wellness is a lifelong journey, not just a destination. By cultivating both physical and mental health, we can achieve incredible things—both on and off the stage.

I invite you to experience the magic and wellness of circus firsthand by joining us for the International Circus Festival of Las Vegas. It’s an event unlike any other, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of performers from around the world. Whether you’re a long-time circus fan or experiencing it for the first time, you’ll walk away feeling inspired—not just by the performances but by the dedication and wellness behind them.

Join Us at the International Circus Festival of Las Vegas

Our festival will take place over two weekends: Friday, Nov. 1 through Sunday, Nov. 3, and Thursday, Nov. 7 through Sunday, Nov. 10. Held under a grand circus tent at the Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet (1717 S. Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102), the event will kick off each night at 7 p.m., with the exception of Sunday, Nov. 3, when we begin at 4 p.m. You’ll have the chance to witness everything from flying trapeze to unicycling, and be part of an unforgettable experience where wellness meets wonder. Tickets start at just $39 per person and are available now at lasvegascircusfestival.com. Don’t miss your chance to see world-class talent, support the wellness of our community, and maybe even discover a new path to your own well-being.

See you at the show!