Fancy trying some aerial yoga? Here's EYNTK as a beginner
These days, there are thousands of ways to get fit - all of which offer different benefits and results depending on your fitness goals. From viral TikTok trends to classic weights and cardio in the gym, there are also nicher exercises like aerial yoga which can improve flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination.
The latter, which we're here to talk about, is a type of yoga that has grown in popularity in recent years. It takes inspiration from the traditional 5,000-year-old practice but with a twist: it defies gravity. (Elphaba fans, assemble. This might be the exercise for you.)
So, as aerial yoga continues to become a staple exercise in the wellness world (and, perhaps, in Oz), what exactly is it? What are the benefits, and how can newbies keen to jump on the trend get on board? Cosmopolitan UK spoke to a number of aerial yoga instructors to get the lowdown on an exercise that promises to get us high (not like that, guys).
What is aerial yoga?
It's exactly what it says on the tin – yoga, but in the air. Don't worry though; you don't need to have actual powers of levitation to be able to do it. The height comes from the silks or hammocks suspended from the ceiling that you'd traditionally see in aerial acrobatics.
Jo-Leigh Morris, yoga, Pilates, barre instructor and coach at WithU and Mvmnt explains: "The silks are used to provide support through your yoga physical postures, also known as asanas. They're there to aid with balance and alignment, and allow you to deepen into the postures."
Is aerial yoga easier than normal yoga?
It is indeed. In fact, Morris argues that beginners may find it preferable to regular yoga, due to that extra support.
"During a class, the hammock will support half of your bodyweight, making the asanas easier as you get to grips with the movements," she explains. "Because they're supportive, the silks are especially great for single leg work, as you'll feel safe and comfortable to relax into the movement and progress your practice."
Granted, trusting your body weight on suspended fabric can feel a little daunting as a newbie. But if that's the case, yoga and Pilates instructor Daisy Robins suggests you learn a few basics of grounded yoga before you take to the skies (sort of).
"It's not necessary, but it will ensure you get the most out of an aerial yoga class," she says.
And a decent teacher will ensure that progression takes place at a pace that suits you, explains Flight and Flow aerial yoga teacher, Laura Hazeldine.
Aerial Yoga Hammock
Period proof gym leggings
Yoga Fitness Stretching Strap
"The hammocks allow support to deepen stretches in a safe, unique and exciting way," she says, adding that you don't have to be very strong or flexible to participate in a beginners' class. Rather, you will build strength, confidence and flexibility as you progress. However, it is "advisable to check that the intensity level of a class is suitable for you before you attend. This is because some classes might require you to be able to hold your own body weight."
Hazeldine adds: "People with mobility restrictions may be more suited to a restorative aerial yoga class where the hammocks are suspended close to the ground, at knee height."
Is aerial yoga a good workout? Tell me the benefits!
Look, these women aren't super toned for no reason – aerial yoga has numerous benefits that make it a decent class to look into.
Low impact
Low impact exercises mean anything that doesn't involve putting a lot of strain and weight through your muscles and joints while exercising.
Hazeldine explains: "The soft silky slings wrap around and support and stabilise you. This will enable you to safely experience some of the more challenging yoga postures and inversions in comfort, without the added pressure of gravity on your shoulders, spine, neck and joints."
Easing back pain
When you finally get to the stage where you can hang upside down, these inversions will help ease any knots in your back and spine.
"Inverting relieves back pain, disc and joint pain and sciatica by creating space and circulation between the vertebrae," Hazeldine notes. "This decreases inflammation and allows greater mobility in the spine."
Improved core strength
Even at just your bodyweight, lifting yourself up can be hard going. Hazeldine explains that your "core is your foundation." And, that a "strong foundation will improve the technique, stamina, strength and stability in everything that you do."
She adds: "One of the benefits of taking your routine off the ground is that when you lose your point of stability, you'll engage your core immediately without even noticing!"
Better wellbeing
As with all exercise, aerial yoga triggers dopamine and serotonin, which can improve mood.
"You will also build your confidence. You'll be amazed at your progress. There's a real sense of pride and achievement as you start to develop more skills and strength in the silks," the expert says.
Insulated Water Bottle
Diffuse Sweat Headband
Wave Beam 2
Is there anyone who shouldn’t do aerial yoga?
Of course, not every exercise is a glove-like fit for everyone – and there are some caveats people should consider before trying aerial yoga.
For example, Hazeldine notes that if you have glaucoma, cataracts, high blood pressure or any neurological conditions, it's advisable to check with a medical professional to make sure that it's suitable for you.
"In addition, if you have recently had surgery, or if you suffer from any major bone or musculoskeletal injuries, disorders or diseases, then you should consult with your medical practitioner before attending class," she warns.
And if you're pregnant, it's best to give aerial yoga a miss and stick to lower intensity classes. Always check with a GP if you're uncertain.
Is aerial yoga a better workout than Pilates?
Well, this entirely depends on personal preference, and what type of workout you're specifically looking for.
Morris describes Pilates as a physical practice, where you work the whole body to improve core strength, postural alignment and bring muscular harmony between strength and flexibility. Whereas aerial yoga focuses more on relaxing and releasing into the postures, allowing your body to open up and let go of tension.
She concludes: "In a nutshell, if you want a more dynamic full body workout, I'd choose Pilates, and if you want to relax and let go of tension whilst increasing flexibility, I'd suggest aerial yoga."
But that's not to say you have to pick a favourite…why not incorporate both into your routine?
Does aerial yoga burn belly fat?
If you want to tone yourself up (not that you should feel pressured to do so, by the way) or are looking to lose weight for the health benefits (e.g. to reduce your risk of certain diseases) aerial yoga could be a piece in that wider jigsaw puzzle.
Hazeldine explains: "Aerial yoga classes vary in levels of intensity and difficulty so the amount of physical energy spent will vary. There is no quick fix to losing belly fat, but regular moderately intense aerial yoga practices will require a considerable amount of core work." But with perseverance and practice, it "definitely shows a change in body shape for many, providing the participant lives a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle."
The expert adds: "Even just sitting in the hammock requires the core to be engaged for stability, so your abs are working hard even when you don't realise it!"
So, now you know the basics, why not sign up for your local aerial yoga class? We know we will be!
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