Want to do what Amherstburg's James Heugh can do? Try his Christmas "acro" party on Saturday night in exchange for a toy or food donation.
Amherstburg 'acro' athlete teaches balance for Christmas charity
The feats of strength and balance that Amherstburg-born “acro” athlete James Heugh executes may seem daunting — but he says many members of the public can enjoy performing his art.
“If you come to a class, it will be about what you bring to the table,” promises Heugh, 27.
“I’ve had people come who have been older, or out of shape, or a little bit overweight … It’s just about communicating effectively and seeing what you can do with the body that you have.”
Heugh — who is taking a break from his Los Angeles lifestyle to visit his hometown for the holidays — will be holding a charitable Christmas party on Saturday for anyone interested in learning acro moves.
Although it’s related to acrobatics and gymnastics, the art of acro is different from both.
“(Acro) usually involves two people or more,” Heugh says. “You use each other to accomplish different moves. You could be standing on each other’s thighs, or lifting someone over your head, or doing something dance-y and flow-y.”
“Communication is probably the most important thing. It’s how you keep each other safe.”

‘Acro’ athlete James Heugh demonstrates his talents while visiting The Star on Dec. 22, 2017.

James Heugh (centre) and some of his AcroArmy friends in Los Angeles.
Attendance to Saturday’s event is free, but interested folks are asked to bring either a new toy (no wrapping paper) or a non-perishable food item — meant for donation to local shelters and food banks.
Last year’s party yielded more than 100 donation items.
In 2016, Heugh performed on the television show America’s Got Talent as part of the AcroArmy. He’s been keeping up the performing throughout 2017, travelling to locations such as Paris and Las Vegas for shows.
Between gigs, Heugh teaches acro in Los Angeles under his brand name AcroJames. “I run the biggest standing acro class in the city,” he says.
While it’s true that advanced acro pushes the limits of balance, flexibility, and core strength, Heugh still believes it’s an accessible activity.
“You never need any equipment. You just need your partner.”
The AcroJames Christmas party happens Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Maximum Training Centre (3090 Dougall Ave.). Wear comfortable workout clothing if you’d like to participate. Attendees are asked to bring a donation of a new, unwrapped toy or a non-perishable food item.

‘Acro’ athlete James Heugh, shown on Dec. 22, 2017, is hosting a Christmas charity party offering to teach his art in exchange for donations of toys and food.
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