If you're wanting to become a better acro base then pay attention to this one...
This is probably the best thing you can learn as a base in acro that will improve your overall skill.
It applies to L-base and standing acro, and also to the non physical parts of the practice too.
It is receptivity.
Receptivity by dictionary definition means:
"willingness or readiness to receive (especially impressions or ideas)"
As a base in acro you can probably see why this is incredibly important.
Willingness and readiness to receive someone is super important in keeping our flyers safe.
During a dynamic pop, move or washing machine, if you are ready to receive your flyers weight when they fall or lose balance, the fall is going to be much softer for the flyer.
A very experienced flyer I once played with said that she felt comfortable training more advanced dynamic skills with me, because I had great receptivity.
I only recently have begun to recognise in myself what she was saying.
I now see how this one word - receptivity is a key fundamental to becoming a safe and stable base.
In my mind receptivity is very much about absorbing your flyers movements/weight.
Even if a flyer falls wildly to the side I will still do whatever I can with my legs or arms to slow and absorb their weight before they hit the ground.
This is instinctual in the moment of course, but they are instincts that I have trained and developed.
It's also not just about in falls.
In washing machines and flows, being receptive and receiving your flyers weight when they move through a transition will make things smoother and more seamless.
That's why the "bend the knee" cue you've probably heard in a tik-tok movement works.
Lastly receptivity extends beyond the physical.
Being receptive in your communication and listening is infinitely valuable.
Just listening to feedback, and being receptive to what others have to say will massively transform your practice (as a flyer and a base).
Everything I'm saying sounds logical and sensible right?
But the reality is, I see a lot of bases (experienced and inexperienced) who don't show/use receptivity.
Some of you reading this probably don't.
I can't stress enough how much this will improve your acro practice, how flyers will feel infinitely more safe and comfortable with you.
SO start practicing receptivity.
Be mindful in your acro sessions to listen, absorb, cushion your flyers falls. Receive their weight and their words.
I really think this is a big one that everyone should be cultivating in their practices, and I would be super happy if you take something useful away from this blog and into your practice.
Cheers,
Cas
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