We took our workout to new heights at LA's Cirque School.

Through an alley off Hollywood Blvd., if you know where to turn (insider hint: it's in view of David Fincher's building), you'll find yourself in a vaulting space that looks a lot like a big top. Purple, blue and white fabric cascades from the ceiling, trapezes hang, and mats are everywhere. This is the new home of Cirque School LA. We learned some tricks:

Balancing on a ball. Using inflatable exercise balls, we warmed up with founder Aloysia Gavre--a former member of Cirque du Soleil--by lying atop the ball, turning over and back, and throwing and catching it with our ankles.

Hanging from a trapeze. We hoisted ourselves onto a low trapeze and did mid-air curl-ups, then held on with our feet and bent ourselves into shapes. Check out some amazing moves here. 

Climbing a ribbon. We wrapped one leg around the bright fabric that hangs from the ceiling, and inched to the top and down (surprisingly, it's not all about upper body strength).

Aerial arts take so much effort that it's essential to rest by stretching between exercises. By the end, every muscle ached, but we couldn't stop smiling.

Cirque School is expanding: We met Jennifer Berry, a stilt walker who'll teach Pilates.

We look forward to hanging with her.

Cirque School LA, 5460 1/2 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, MAP