Gain height safely
Whether you are discovering aerial silks, rope or the aerial hoop, the magic begins here. Through a series of questions, this guide helps you build a basket tailored to your situation, your needs and your goals. You can then adjust the quantities in your basket.
Our goal? To turn complex technical concepts into a simple, safe and durable installation, even if this is your first time.
Loads & Physics
Understand the essential mechanical principles needed to assess static and dynamic loads without the headache.
Fixed or Pulley System?
A simple way to choose the right anchoring system for your use and make installation easier.
Certified Equipment
The essential checklist: carabiners, swivels, slings and more. Learn how to identify reliable equipment.
Load-Bearing Structure
Learn how to work effectively with a building professional to assess and validate your anchor point.
🎓 NetJuggler Expertise
We translate engineering language into plain, practical terms. Each step explains the why, turning concepts such as the safety factor or multi-directional loading into clear and logical decisions.
At the end of this guide, you will have access to a comparison chart to help equip your studio, garage or circus school.
Important Safety Warning
This guide is an educational resource and does not replace an on-site assessment by a qualified professional. Failing to consult an expert can lead to serious risks, including structural failure or equipment breakage. NetJuggler can advise you on equipment, but cannot certify the strength of your walls or beams. Always consult a structural engineer, qualified building professional or carpenter when assessing the supporting structure.
Do you prefer a simple anchor or one with a pulley system for more flexibility?
Where do you want to install your anchor point?
Tips for Securely Anchoring a Tree Branch
Tree Rigging: Warning! Danger! 🌳
The Invisible Trap
Deceptive solidity: A majestic tree can hide internal rot or cracks. Unlike a steel beam, living wood is unpredictable.
The tree is suffering
Irreversible damage: The straps and friction tear off the bark and compress the living tissues (cambium), which can slowly kill the tree.
Unrelenting physics
Dynamic forces: A fall or a swing multiplies your weight by 3, 5 or 10. A branch that supports your static weight can snap cleanly in motion.
👷 The only safe method
If you absolutely must hang it outdoors, forget about improvisation. It is essential to seek professional help.
- ✅ A certified arborist: The only one capable of assessing the internal health of the tree by probing.
- ✅ A professional rigger: Specializing in live entertainment, he will install the equipment according to the standards (no DIY).
🚫 If you persist (at your own risk)
Our official recommendation remains: do not attempt this without a dedicated structure (gantry). If you disregard this, minimize the damage:
- Protect the bark: It is essential to use thick sleeves or protectors under the straps.
- Standard equipment: No ropes from DIY stores. Use certified lifting straps.
- Supervision: Never practice alone in the forest.
Reminder: A wounded tree will take years to heal, if it ever does.
How to fix an anchor to a concrete ceiling or support
Installation on Concrete Ceiling 🧱
Concrete is an ideal substrate for aerial work, provided it is sound. Here are the steps to follow for a compliant and durable installation.
1. The Inspection
Before drilling, check the surface:
- Integrity: The concrete must be sound (no cracks, no hollow sounds, no crumbling).
- Expertise: Consultation with a structural engineer is required to confirm that the slab can support the load (load-bearing).
2. Anchoring
Don't try to make things yourself with standard hooks:
- Use our specific anchor plates .
- They are certified for dynamic human loads and offer redundancy (multiple attachment points).
3. Fixation
The method is as important as the equipment:
- Hire a qualified professional .
- Demand a chemical anchor (resin) rather than a mechanical expansion anchor, to avoid cracking the concrete under vibrations.
Beware of the upstairs neighbors
The strength of your ceiling also depends on what's happening above it. If you're having a party upstairs (jumping, dancing, crowds), these loads will be added to those of your climbing equipment.
Tip: Incorporate these simultaneous "operating loads" into your safety calculations.
The difference is purely aesthetic (choice of color) to match your ceiling.
Ceiling anchoring plate - Concrete: Silver
Ceiling anchoring plate - Concrete: White
How to install an anchor on a wooden beam
Installation on a wooden beam 🪵
🚨 Danger: Real or Fake Beam?
Beware of decorative beams! Many modern houses have hollow beams (wooden or polystyrene formwork) that are not load-bearing.
Hanging any equipment on a decorative beam will cause it to collapse immediately. Always check the solid wood structure.
The installation depends on the accessibility of your beam. Here are the two possible scenarios, with their specific rules.
Case A: The Bracing
The gentlest methodConfiguration: The beam is "free" (space available between it and the ceiling).
The technique:
- Pass a round strap (sling) around the beam.
- Use a lark's head knot or a quick link to close the loop.
- Advantage: No drilling, the structural integrity of the beam is 100% preserved.
Case B: Fixation
When you can't go aroundConfiguration: The beam is glued to the ceiling or embedded.
The technique:
- Use a screw-in anchor plate (2 or 4 points).
- Important: Make pilot holes (pre-drilling) to avoid splitting the wood when screwing.
- Aim for the heart of the beam (the center) and not the edges.
- Use large diameter lag screws (min 10-12mm) suitable for the load.
The secret to longevity: Protection
The wood has sharp edges that cut the straps, and the straps can "saw" the wood by friction.
The golden rule: Always place a piece of carpet, thick felt, or tree protector between the wood and your hanging hardware. This protects your life... and your beam.
How to fix an anchor on a beam without space above
The difference between the two models we offer is purely aesthetic. Only the color changes.
Ceiling anchoring plate - Wood: silver
Ceiling anchoring plate - Wood: White
Measure the perimeter of your beam for anchoring
1. Wood Health Check-up
Before removing the equipment, ensure that your substrate is alive and healthy.
- ❌ Hunt down the enemies: Check for the absence of rot (soft wood), deep cracks or fine sawdust (sign of wood-boring insects such as termites or longhorn beetles).
- 👷 Professional Validation: Only a structural engineer can officially guarantee that an old beam will withstand dynamic loads (shocks).
2. The Made-to-Measure Rule
Your choice of sewn ring depends directly on the circumference of the beam.
- ✏️ Measure the perimeter: Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the entire circumference of your beam. This measurement will determine the size of the ring to order below.
Choose the shortest possible ring (while still allowing it to go around the beam). This avoids unnecessarily losing ceiling height under your apparatus.
60cm Truck Loop - PETZL
80cm Truck Loop- PETZL
120cm truck loop - PETZL
150cm truck loop - PETZL
Select the carabiner suitable for your installation
Carabiner Comparison 🔗
We only offer certified and globally recognized brands such as Petzl or CAMP .
(Even if you don't buy from us, stay true to these standards for your life).
What is your priority? Identify your profile below to make the right choice.
Maximum Security
Target audience: Beginners, Schools & Pros.
The Ovale Pro 3 Lock model is a must-have. Its "Triple Action" system makes accidental opening by friction impossible.
Grand Opening
Target: Trapezoid & Thick Knots.
Need space? The HMS carabiner (pear shape) offers a wide opening ideal for clove hitches or trapeze bars.
Lightweight (Aluminum)
Target: Frequent travel.
Aluminum is your friend. Opt for the Oval Compact or the standard HMS . Be aware that aluminum wears out faster than steel.
Indestructible (Steel)
Target: Heavy-duty & Fixed use.
For a rock-solid anchor point, choose Steel (Ovale Pro). It's heavier, but much more durable against friction.
Small Budget
Target: General use.
The Standard Oval Carabiner offers excellent value for money without sacrificing safety. Simple and effective.
Make your selection from the list below
👇Compact Oval Carabiner
Aluminum carabiner from the manufacturer CAMP, reference 1115. Extremely strong and lightweight, it is equipped with a Keylock closure.
Compact lock oval carabiner
Standard Oval Carabiner
Zinc-plated steel carabiner from the manufacturer CAMP, reference 981. Extremely resistant, it is equipped with a Keylock closure to prevent it from snagging.
Standard oval carabiner
Oval Pro Carabiner
Zinc-plated carbon steel carabiner from the manufacturer CAMP, reference 1455. Very resistant, it has a Keylock closure and a ferrule to keep it closed during use.
Oval Pro Lock Carabiner
Pro 3 Lock Oval Carabiner
Zinc-plated carbon steel carabiner from the manufacturer CAMP, reference 1456. Extremely resistant, it is equipped with a Keylock closure and a triple-action automatic locking system (slide, turn, press).
Oval pro 3lock carabiner
What type of ceiling do you have for anchoring?
Select the length of rope required for your installation
🧭 Calculate your rope length
You don't need to be good at math. To install a pulley system, you only need to know two key measurements.
Distance between the anchor point on the ceiling and the floor (or carpet).
Ground distance between the underside of the apparatus and the point where you attach the rope to the wall.
Because the rope has to go up to the pulley, then back down to you.
💡 The Rigger's Advice: The Safety Margin
The calculation above gives you the exact theoretical length.
Always add 2 to 3 extra meters to your order.
- To tie the knots (which use up rope).
- To have some "slack" and prevent the end of the rope from slipping out and into the pulley (very annoying!).
Mobile anchor point with plates. - 15 meters
Mobile anchor point with plates. - 20 meters
Mobile anchor point with plates. - 30 meters
Mobile anchor point with plates. - 40 meters
Mobile anchor point with plates. - 50 meters
Choosing the length of the rope
Mobile anchor point (for a beam) - 15 meters
Mobile anchor point (for a beam) - 20 meters
Mobile anchor point (for a beam) - 30 meters
Mobile anchor point (for a beam) - 40 meters
Mobile anchor point (for a beam) - 50 meters
Would you like to add a pivot (swivel) for rotation?
The Swivel (Pivot): Essential or Superfluous? 🌀
The swivel (also called a swivel ) is always placed at the top. directly between your anchor point and your apparatus (silk, hoop, etc.).
✅ Why say YES
-
Absolute fluidity:
It allows for infinite rotation without resistance. Ideal for dynamic choreography. -
Equipment security:
It prevents your straps or fabrics from twisting (twisting) on themselves, which considerably extends their lifespan. -
Artistic freedom:
It unlocks a whole repertoire of figures based on rotation (spinning) that are impossible to achieve statically.
🚫 Why hesitate?
-
Loss of stability:
The apparatus rotates with the slightest movement. Holding a static pose becomes much more difficult for a beginner. -
Complexity & Height:
This adds a mechanical part (therefore a point of failure to monitor) and makes you lose about 10 to 15 cm of ceiling height. -
Budget & Maintenance:
This is an additional cost. Furthermore, ball bearings require maintenance to prevent seizing.
Swivel - CAMP
Swivel S - PETZL
Swivel open - PETZL
Swivel Play 30Kn
Additional carabiner required for use with this swivel: Make your choice
Compact lock oval carabiner
Standard oval carabiner
Oval Pro Lock Carabiner
Oval pro 3lock carabiner
Would you like to add aerial apparatus to your order?
What length of fabric do you need in relation to the height of your anchor point?
What color do you want for your aerial fabric?
Aerial fabric - 8 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 8 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 8 meters orange
Aerial fabric - 8m purple
Aerial fabric - 8 meters green
Aerial fabric - 8 meters black
Aerial fabric - 8 meters white
Aerial fabric - 8 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 8 meters red
Aerial fabric - 10 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 10 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 10m orange
Aerial fabric - 10m purple
Aerial fabric - 10 meters green
Aerial fabric - 10 meters black
Aerial fabric - 10 meters white
Aerial fabric - 10 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 10 meters red
Aerial fabric - 12 meters white
Aerial fabric - 12 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 12 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 12 meters black
Aerial fabric - 12 meters red
Aerial fabric - 12 meters green
Aerial fabric - 12 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 12m orange
Aerial fabric - 12m purple
Aerial fabric - 14m orange
Aerial fabric - 14 meters red
Aerial fabric - 14m purple
Aerial fabric - 14 meters white
Aerial fabric - 14 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 14 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 14 meters black
Aerial fabric - 14 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 14 meters green
Aerial fabric - 16 meters white
Aerial fabric - 16 meters red
Aerial fabric - 16 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 16 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 16 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 16m orange
Aerial fabric - 16m purple
Aerial fabric - 16 meters black
Aerial fabric - 16 meters green
Aerial fabric - 18 meters red
Aerial fabric - 18 meters white
Aerial fabric - 18 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 18 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - green 18 meters
Aerial fabric - 18 meters blue
Aerial fabric - 18m orange
Aerial fabric - 18m purple
Aerial fabric - 18 meters black
Aerial fabric - 20 meters white
Aerial fabric - 20 meters black
Aerial fabric - 20 meters turquoise
Aerial fabric - 20 meters green
Aerial fabric - 20 meters pink
Aerial fabric - 20m orange
Aerial fabric - 20 meters red
Aerial fabric - 20m purple
Aerial fabric - blue 20 meters
How to choose the diameter of your hoop
📏 Choose your hoop size
The ideal size depends on your body shape. An incorrect size can make the activity uncomfortable, or even painful.
The Step-by-Step Method
-
Sit on the floor:
Keep your back straight and your buttocks against the floor (not on a cushion). -
Measure the height:
Take a tape measure and measure the distance between the ground (at buttock level) and the top of your head. -
Add the comfort margin:
Add 10 cm to this measurement to avoid hitting your head when performing seated maneuvers.
🧮 The Final Calculation (Important)
Our hoops are sold in OUTER diameter. Therefore, you must add the thickness of the tube (2 x 2.5cm). + 5 cm
(In this example: 70 + 10 + 5 = 85 cm outside diameter)
👥 For Schools & Groups
If the hoop will be used by several people of different sizes, allow for a larger margin. Add up to 15 cm (instead of 10) to the average height to ensure everyone is comfortable.
🎭 A matter of taste
This calculation is a standard. Some artists prefer smaller (more dynamic) or larger (more flexible) hoops depending on their style of practice.
Aerial hoop 85 cm
Aerial hoop 90 cm
Aerial hoop 95 cm
Aerial Hoop 100cm
Aerial hoop 105cm
Aerial Hoop 110cm
How high do you want to place your hoop?
Ceiling Height: The Space Challenge 🏠
Height of 6 to 7 meters.
There is room for long slings and complex systems. The range is total.
Often 3 meters, or even less.
Every centimeter counts. The mounting system must be ultra-compact so as not to "eat up" your workspace.
⚠️ Why is this critical?
An improperly sized (too long) system reduces your usable workspace.
The result: You risk touching the ground on low tricks, or hitting the anchor point on high tricks. It's a matter of comfort, but above all, safety.
Up to you !
Before choosing your equipment below, take out the tape measure.
Accurately measure the distance between your anchor point (ceiling) and the desired height for the top or bottom of the hoop.
Polysafe Aerial Rope - Prodigy
Adjustable anchor for aerial
10 Loop Aerial Chain - Prodigy
5 Loop Chain for Yoga Hammock - Prodigy
10.5mm iridium static cord
10mm static rope
Securely attaching your aerial hoop
There are several ways to attach your aerial hoop. Many practitioners choose to use slings or straps by tying a lark's head knot directly around the hoop.
⚠️ Caution: This method presents a higher risk .
✅ Our recommendation: Choose a fixing with a shackle . This solution offers better security and limits the risk of dropping out.
💡 In case of hoop breakage, being secured with a shackle helps keep the hoop at your anchor point, preventing a free fall of the equipment and the user.
🔧 In summary:
- Lark's head fixation is possible but more risky.
- Shackle attachment is strongly recommended for added security.
- Regularly check the condition of the attachment points and equipment.
Aerial hoop attachment
Choosing the diameter of your hoop
Choosing the diameter of your aerial hoop depends mainly on your height. To determine the ideal size, sit on the floor and measure the height from the floor to the top of your head.
➕ Add 10 cm to this measurement: this will correspond to the recommended internal diameter.
🔍 Example: if the measured height is 70 cm, you need a hoop with an inner diameter of 80 cm.
💡 This calculation allows you to maintain sufficient space above your head when sitting in the hoop, to avoid bumping into it. At NetJuggler, we indicate the outer diameter of our hoops. 👉 You will therefore need to add 5 cm to your measurement to know what size hoop to buy.
👥 If you are buying a hoop for collective use (circus school, workshop), you can allow for a wider margin, up to 15 cm .
🎭 The 10 cm space between the top of your head and the hoop is given as a guide: of course, you may have different preferences depending on your practice style.
Aerial hoop 85 cm
Aerial hoop 90 cm
Aerial hoop 95 cm
Aerial Hoop 100cm
Aerial hoop 105cm
Aerial Hoop 110cm
Grip and decoration of your aerial hoop
Snake Tape - Prodigy
Stretchy tape - aerial
Aerial adhesive 50m - 2.5cm - Firetoys
Aerial adhesive 50m - 3.8cm - Firetoys
Thank you for your responses. The choices you have made allow us to offer you a set of equipment for the configuration described. Clicking "Submit" will add the items to your cart.
