Today we are talking about one of the coolest exercises, that doesn't feel like exercise. It's called aerial yoga! It looks like so much fun, I know you'll be eager to get started too!
Are you looking for a fun and exciting workout that also feels amazing?
Two words. Aerial Yoga!
It's one of the coolest workouts ever.
Plus the benefits are insane. Strengthen, tone and stretch muscles all at the same time.
Perfect for creating leaner, sculpted muscles. But the best part, is the fun aspect.
Sadly, there is one big downside, the set up is intimidating.
And you do need enough room to move comfortably.
But seriously does this not look super cool!
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Contents
What Is Aerial Yoga & How Does It Work
One of the most interesting things about aerial yoga is the fact that it’s a blend of disciplines.
It's a newer type of yoga that mixes traditional yoga poses with pilates and dance, along with the use of a hammock and some of the healing arts.
Aerial yoga can vary from very easy working out to more moderate (and sometimes very vigorous) workouts.
Your body is supported by a hammock and helps suspend you from the ceiling.
It allows you to move your body into positions that would be impossible from the ground.
It can allow your muscles to stretch and lengthen, and decompress your spine.
You're basically defying the laws of gravity!
Benefits of This Antigravity Yoga
So now that you know what aerial yoga is, here are a few of the reasons you should be doing it!
It's a Great Beginner Exercise
As intimidating as the video above looks, there are lots of great beginner moves you can do.
You can start with easy stretches and get used to the feeling of moving your body, and then work your way up to more intricate and intense moves.
Here is an example of a great routine that even an absolute beginner antigravateer can do:
2. It's Low Impact
These exercises are great for those with joint injuries.
Anything with running and jumping can cause a lot of stress and issues for those with knee and ankle problems.
Aerial yoga is totally different. It's one of the better exercises for preventing joint injuries or worsening them.
3. Great for Relaxation
Another great thing about anti-gravity yoga, is that it's great form of relaxation.
Simply resting in the yoga hammock in the savasana position feels amazing!
The slow tranquil movement is relaxing and gives you a sense of peace and wellness.
The gentle stretching can help loosed any store or stiff muscles and you'll great afterward.
Just be careful not to get too addicted!
4. Great for Intensive Cardio
Don't be fooled by the relaxing poses the hammock allows though.
There are definitely more rigorous routines that will push your workout further.
It's a mix of strength training, stretching, and cardio. Just look at all the acrobatics involved!
5. It's a Fantastic Core Workout
It's all about the core, right?
Nearly all the movements involved in aerial yoga require you to activate your core muscles.
This means you are constantly using your abdominal muscles to move from pose to pose.
This is great for strengthening your core and giving you amazing abs without endless sit-ups.
6. It's Just Plain Fun
And finally, whats more fun than a workout that feels great, is far from routine and lets you fly through the air on a near-constant basis.
If you are having trouble staying motivated in your current workout, then aerial yoga may be just the thing to push you to your fitness goals!
How to Get Started
Depending on your preferences, there are two main ways you can get started with aerial yoga.
1. Sign up for a Group Class
More and more, larger cities are offering specialized aerial yoga classes.
You can check your area to see if there are any places that offer options locally.
2. Do it at Home
The set up looks intimidating, but it's really not hard to install the yoga hammock at all.
Most set-ups are just two brackets installed into the ceiling.
And then the hammock hooks into them. The only thing to worry about is making sure to install them into studs.
The biggest limiter for most people is the space.
Some install the brackets in their living room and just move the central furniture when its time to workout (or just relax, whos to say you can't veg out in your yoga hammock?)
To get started you'll need an actual yoga hammock set up, and a bracket kit.
Simply follow the install directions and your good to go!
