Aerial yoga is a safe form of exercise for practically everyone. Whether you'll be joining classes or going it alone, you will be fine! As long as you concentrate and be sure to follow instruction carefully, especially if you're watching your fav yogi on Youtube.
Aerial yoga is an amazing addition to the practice of yoga as it helps to decompress the spine, increases core strength and balance and provide the action of pulling, a movement that is lacking in the traditional yoga practice
It’s totally normal to feel nervous about taking your very first Aerial Yoga for beginners class.
Will I be strong enough?
Do I have to be super flexible?
Is Aerial Yoga hard to do?
These are just some of the many questions that newbies to Aerial Yoga will ask.
Aerial Yoga classes are all different, each taught in a specific style, using a variety of hammocks and silks.
Also, there are different studio policies for the classes you go to, so know that when it comes to what to expect at your first aerial class, this will depend on where you are taking the class.
Though for any style, there are general points for you to remember to ensure that you have the safest and most enjoyable experience, which ultimately has you coming back for more.
Rarely do people ever just go to one aerial class… usually after the first, they’re hooked! You’ll find out why when you take the plunge.
Let’s break it down and look at the main things you need to know before your first Aerial Yoga class, so you can feel more confident to hang out (literally) and feel like a pro!
Research the Aerial Yoga Style & Studio
As mentioned above, there are different styles of Aerial Yoga, and these styles can vary greatly. Some hammocks are simple slings without any frills.
Some are more comprehensive called a Yoga Swing, which have additional elements such as handles with multiple padded grips and adjustment straps giving you a wider range of postures and support.
As well as the style of hammock/swing, there is also the actual class type as well. There are more dynamic and strong classes, as well as gentle and restorative.
You can start with either (as long as there is open-level or aerial yoga for beginners class option available).
Spend time researching the studio that you’re going to take the class, look online to see if there are pre-class tips or requirements, and make sure you are booked into a class (if there’s online booking).
Ultimately, it’s about what you want.
Do you want a strong and sweaty class?
Or a sweet, restorative one?
Do you want something more ‘grounded’, or a comprehensive practice with the handles and adjustment straps?
This will help you choose the studio and the class.
Aerial Yoga for Beginners – What & How to Prepare
Your first aerial yoga for beginners class is a big moment, and for many people, a little intimidating.
It’s okay if you feel nervous!
Actually, those that walk into the class more nervous at the start are generally the ones who are more celebratory at the end of class, having conquered their fears!
Clothes
Firstly, it’s advised to wear tights or long shorts below the knee – this allows there to be less friction and more comfort for the material touching your body.
Additionally, it is better to have more coverage in your shirt, rather than anything too revealing showing a lot of skin, as again it can be uncomfortable for first-timers to have the strap on their skin.
Jewelry
All of your jewelry must be taken off – this is not only for safety to not get stuck in the fabric, but also so that you don’t damage the material, which makes the yoga hammock and swings useless once they get a hole.
This includes hair clips, rings, body jewelry, and piercings.
Perfume
Furthermore, be respectful to others who will be using the Aerial Yoga swing after you in future classes by not coming in with strong perfume on your body.
This can get onto the fabric and possibly irritate others who have sensitive skin or allergies.
Don’t Overeat/Drink Going Into Aerial Classes
Come into class hydrated, though don’t drink too much before you walk into class, as you will regret it once you are moving, swinging and hanging upside down with a sloshy belly full of liquid.
The same goes for food. Leave at least 2 hours after you eat before you come to a class. Save the meal for afterward, when you’ll surely be hungry after an active practice.
Ask About the Policies of the Studio
When you are in the studio space, there will be certain rules to uphold for your safety, as well as respecting the class environment.
Although fun, this is Aerial Yoga, after all – not a circus class.
Most teachers are going to let you know that filming and photos during class are not allowed, though they may give you some space to take pictures after class.
Additionally, bringing a drink bottle in the class near your mat might also have some restrictions for some studios that prefer no additional objects or props near the hammocks.
So ask the studio about this when you arrive.
Enter With An Open Mind & Heart
No expectations. It is a practice. You’re not there to be ‘perfect’ at something you’ve never done.
This means you are simply there to move, flow, explore your body and breathe, open yourself up, and enjoy the experience of expanding your awareness and capabilities.
Be curious, remember to smile, and release any expectations you have so that you can be fully present to the experience.
Aerial Yoga is For Everyone
Aerial yoga for beginners is a fantastic new experience. You will feel incredible in your body and mind after your first class.
Savasana can often be some of the deepest experiences that people have after an aerial class.
If you are not so flexible, or you’re dealing with injuries, overweight, older, have never practiced yoga – guess what?! You can still try Aerial Yoga 🙂
To put it simply, the answer to the most commonly asked question ‘Is Aerial Yoga hard?’
Nope!
Final Words of Advice
Though it is very rare, some people may feel nauseous during or after class. If you experience motion sickness, this could happen.
That doesn’t mean you can’t ever do aerial yoga again, generally this only happens the first few times and then it settles.
Likewise, if you are pregnant, it is not recommended – unless it is a restorative class and/or the teacher has given you correct modifications.
There are more contraindications – If you’re dealing with illness or injuries, some of these may prevent you from practicing.
Again, you should check with the teacher, and also speak to your general healthcare professional for the right advice.
You should try AeroYoga at Puerto Rico Location!
In Yoga in Puerto Rico, Rafael Martinez, creator of AeroYoga, presents the so-known as Mini-Retreats (Yoga retreats Puerto Rico) which are half-day durations that embody complete immersion in the AeroYoga® methodology (Aerial Yoga and AeroPilates) similarly to the paintings of mindfulness meditation. These Mini-Retreats complete their health benefits with the usage of scorching stones (lithotherapy) and herbal essential oils (aromatherapy).
Good Luck at your first Aeroyoga for beginners class!!
