Alanna Glennon's Comeback; a Testament to the Healing Potential of Movement

Alanna has been training in aerial acrobatics with me for over a decade, though her journey took a pause when she sustained serious injuries—first from cheerleading, and later at her job at a car dealership. Her path has been anything but linear, but it is a powerful testament to the deep healing potential of movement, community, and creative expression. I know her story will inspire someone out there, and I’m honored to share it—not just as a fellow aerialist, but as a witness to the incredible strength of the human spirit.

Alanna began her aerial journey at just 11 years old. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Alanna was captivated by the world of circus from a young age. Her father, a chef at the Mirage, often took her to Cirque du Soleil shows, and she was instantly hooked. So, when she discovered there were aerial silks classes here in Kalispell, she leapt at the chance to get involved.

11-year-old Alanna in my silks class at the Flathead Gymnastics Academy

Even as a young child, Alanna was a remarkably dedicated student, gifted with incredible flexibility and a strong work ethic. She immersed herself in ballet, gymnastics, and competitive cheer, further building her foundation in movement. In my classes, she quickly excelled on every aerial apparatus she tried and even added stilt walking to her repertoire.

I remember when a renowned contortion coach Gunnar Fields visited from Seattle; he told me the highlight of his entire Montana trip was working with Alanna in my studio. As coaches, it’s always a joy to share our love for movement, but it’s something truly special to get to work with a student who shows Cirque du Soleil-level potential, which was Alanna’s dream. And she seemed well on her way.

She was a showstopper at every event I invited her to:

At just 16, Alanna was accepted into the prestigious summer intensive at École Nationale de Cirque in Montreal, a renowned training ground for world-class circus artists. Though there is a rigorous application and audition process to be accepted to train at École, I was not the last bit surprised she was accepted, and I was excited for this major milestone for Alanna. At the camp, she trained for eight hours a day on all different apparatuses, experienced professional circus shows in the evening and participated in a parade celebrating the 375th anniversary of Montreal.

Alanna heading off to École Nationale de Cirque

In 2018, shortly after returning from camp, Alanna broke her scapula during a cheerleading practice. Sadly, this was not her first cheerleading injury—she had already endured two concussions and a bruised sternum. However, this particular accident would take years to fully recover from. At the time, I was navigating the recovery process from multiple knee surgeries myself, and I did my best to support her, knowing firsthand how challenging and disheartening injuries can be.

Unfortunately, while she was still in the process of rehabilitating her shoulder, Alanna then also sustained a concussion at work when a vehicle’s door frame struck her on the head. This new injury, now her third concussion, left her debilitated for three years, as she battled migraines, memory issues, and chronic balance problems—a real problem for a stilt walker. Her vision was also affected, making it impossible for her to drive for several months. Even now, long-distance driving remains challenging.

Alanna's last performance in Kalispell, MT before her shoulder injury.

She found herself entangled in the medical system, searching for healing and instead enduring a disheartening experience of medical gaslighting when a neurologist dismissed her migraines, attributing them to "female problems." Throughout my time with injury and the medical system, I experienced deeps waves of depression, and I know she felt much the same.

As if facing compounding physical challenges wasn’t enough, she also confronted emotional upheaval during this time, including challenging relationship issues, the devastating losses of a beloved uncle and also a dear friend, as well as complicated family matters.

But not one to be kept down, Alanna searched for ways to heal. Her goal was to get back not only to a normal life, but back to the vibrant circus life she enjoyed in her earlier years. She credits acupuncture as a key part of her recovery but says that stepping back into the studio brought the healing full circle—movement became her medicine.

At Elevated Aerial, Alanna found more than just training. She found a place where she was seen, supported, and believed in. A space where she could reconnect with the person she was before the injuries—and become someone even stronger because of what she’s overcome.

"I am so grateful to be back doing aerial again and regaining my confidence in myself and my body. The Elevated Aerial community has been a saving grace." ~Alanna Glennon

Today, I’m proud to say that Alanna continues to train as both an aerialist and stilt walker here at Elevated Aerial. Her progress has been incredible. She’s stilt-walked with us at several community events including the Mardi Gras fundraiser for the Food Bank, the Missoula Pride Parade, and the Area 406 Music & Arts Festival. She was invited on a very special "bridge" photoshoot with Elevated Aerial instructor Bailey P; and she returned to the air for the first time in nearly a decade with an incredible performance at the Flathead Faery Festival—and she’s set to perform again at the second day of the Flathead Faery Festival tomorrow, Sunday July 27th, and once more at Picnic in the Park on August 13 (catch our aerial acts from 12:45–1:30 pm!).

Here’s Alanna making magic with Elevated Aerial — highlights from the past four months of events!

Recently, Alanna shared with me that the healing hasn’t stopped since she stepped back into the studio. She was surprised to discover she could spin again without feeling nauseous — something she hadn’t been able to do since before her concussions. Small moments like that are powerful reminders of just how far she’s come.

Alanna’s story is one of grit, grace, and the incredible healing power of movement. I’m deeply grateful Elevated Aerial could be a part of her transformation. It’s an honor to cultivate a studio space where healing like this can thrive.

At Elevated Aerial Studio, we are big believers that movement is more than just a workout — it’s a pathway to connection, strength, and healing. At Elevated Aerial, you’ll find a supportive community of:

✨ Individuals committed to growth and resilience

✨ Those navigating challenges like depression, body image struggles, self-doubt, or fear

✨ Others embracing movement as a tool for self-discovery and empowerment

Remember, you, too, are invited to be part of our uplifting culture of movement, wellness, and self-improvement. Let us help you discover your strongest, most empowered self.🧘‍♀️ Find out more about our studio and offerings at: www.elevatedfitnessmt.comArticle by Mindy Cochran.

Me, with Alanna on aerial silks. Circa 2018 at the Flathead Gymnastics Academy

Article by Mindy Cochran. Mindy is the founder of both aerial studios in Kalispell, MT. She is a dedicated practitioner, teacher, and performer of aerial silks, aerial hammock, and aerial hoop. With certifications as a personal trainer, nutrition coach, and life coach, she combines her passion for aerial arts with holistic health expertise to help others elevate their wellness. Mindy is also a former health columnist for Montana Woman Magazine, where she shared insights on healthy living and balanced lifestyles. To connect with Mindy on Instagram, please visit: www.instagram.com/aerial.mindy; or visit her Linktree here.

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