With these aerial yoga safety tips, you’ll be able to embrace this unique and wonderful form of yoga. Aerial Yoga can seem daunting and scary if you’re a beginner. Hanging off the ground and often upside down isn’t something we do on a daily basis. It can be freeing and a whole lot of fun, but there is an aspect of fear that needs to be conquered with aerial yoga.
Over time, you build trust with the hammock (and yourself) and get over your fear of falling. But until then, here are some aerial yoga safety tips to help you avoid injury and have fun.
There are loads of benefits of inversions, but they are one of the scarier things about aerial yoga that you’ll need to master.
What to Wear to Aerial Yoga
The appropriate attire can make all the difference when it comes to your aerial practice. We recommend wearing comfortable, form-fitting clothing that doesn’t slip and slide too much. Rather, avoid zips and charms, as these can tear or get stuck in the hammock. It’s also best to avoid jewellery.
For a full guide, check out our aerial yoga clothes post.
Use Your Yoga Mat
We highly recommend placing your yoga mat underneath your hammock. Not only does this help with floor poses, but it adds a level of comfort and stability during your practice. Additionally, placing a soft mat underneath your hammock can offer extra cushioning in case you slip.
If you’re not sure what type of yoga mat is best for you, read through our yoga mat buyers guide.
Practice Mindful Movements
One of the most important elements of yoga is to listen to your body. This remains true in aerial yoga. Pay attention to your body and avoid forcing yourself into poses that are uncomfortable or painful. If you feel a sharp pain, immediately back out of a pose.
To help build your strength and tolerance, start with beginner poses and slowly work your way up to the more intermediate or advanced poses.
Drink Lots of Water
Hydration is key when it comes to hammock yoga. Bring a bottle of water from home (or check in if your studio has drinking water available). We recommend drinking water before, during and after your practice. It is completely normal to be thirsty after a yoga class.
Medical Considerations
Aerial yoga has quite a few contraindications you should be aware of. You can see the full list on our aerial yoga page. You should consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions and see if an aerial yoga practice is right for you.
It’s also a good idea to let your teacher know if you have any injuries, as well as anything they need to be aware of. Pay attention to your body, and don’t push yourself too far.
For example, I struggle with low blood pressure and sometimes can get a little dizzy, so I know I need to take a little extra time after inversions for my body to equalize.
Hold On to The Hammock
If you’re unsure about anything, keep a grip on the aerial hammock. There are some poses where your teacher will encourage you to let go (if it’s safe). But if you’re not feeling secure, there’s nothing wrong with keeping your hands gripped around the arms of the fabric.
Should you find yourself slipping or sliding out of the hammock, hold on tightly to the fabric. The floor and your mat are there to catch you.
Don’t be afraid to call out to your aerial teacher if you feel unsafe, we’re always around to help out.
Be Mindful of the Floor
Sometimes, you might feel like you’re really far away from the floor, but most of the time, it isn’t that far away. While there’s always a risk you could fall out of the hammock, it is highly unlikely.
Pay Attention to Your Mind
Aerial yoga is great for depression and anxiety, but in some cases, your anxiety may feel overwhelming. Pay close attention to your mind. What is it telling you? Question your can’t’s and be mindful of your fear.
Listen to Instructions
Pay careful attention to what your yoga teacher tells you to do. They put safety first and give specific instructions that will keep you safe.
Pay close attention to what they tell you regarding where to place the hammock in each of the aerial yoga poses. If at any point you are unsure or feel uncomfortable, ask questions. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed as a beginner, but we’re always here to help.
Trust the Process
Aerial yoga is a process that becomes more accessible the more you do it. Some poses come easier to some than to others. Our aerial classes are tailored to beginners, and in all classes, we will have options for you to advance if you feel more comfortable. We advise you to progress gradually and only do what’s right for you.
The more advanced poses require a lot of upper arm and core strength, but the more you practice, the stronger you will become.
Consistency is key with aerial yoga. So remember to let go of your expectations, open your mind and invite this playful process into your life.
Let’s Fly
We can’t wait to welcome you into the hammock. If you’ve got any more questions, explore our aerial yoga guide.
Ready to try aerial yoga? Check out our weekly yoga classes and book your spot. Or send us a message, and we’ll get back to you!
