Practicing yoga has long been considered one of the best ways to stay fit and release stress. While traditional yoga is great for the mind and body, Aerial yoga has a few additional benefits. We’ve recently rolled out new Aerial yoga classes at our Albany studio, and we encourage both newbies and longtime yogis to try this exciting new offering. Read on to learn more about what to expect at an Aerial yoga class, and the benefits that Aerial yoga can provide.

What is Aerial Yoga?

Aerial yoga, also referred to as anti-gravity yoga, shares a lot similarities with traditional yoga. However, there’s a big difference. When participating in aerial yoga classes, the weight of your body will be supported by a hammock. This means you’ll be suspended in the air! It’s a great option for beginners and experienced yoga performers.

What Are the Benefits of Aerial Yoga?

1. Great for Back Sufferers

While everyone can benefit from aerial yoga classes, they’re especially great for people experiencing back pain. Because of the hammock’s support, far less pressure is placed upon your joints. Aerial yoga also doesn’t strain the spine, which is a huge advantage for back pain sufferers. You’ll be able to obtain a full body workout without any discomfort.

2. Helps with Breathing

Controlled breathing is an important aspect of yoga. Aerial yoga allows you to breathe deeply with any restriction. While hanging in the air, you’ll be able to totally relax. Aerial yoga enables you to comfortably maintain every pose. Over time, you can even expect to improve your lung capacity.

3. Enhances Flexibility

In order to maintain a great range of motion, you must consistently work on your flexibility. Aerial yoga class will definitely help you to safely stretch your muscles and tendons. Being suspended in the air gives you more space to move. This means you’ll be able to perform yoga poses that you can’t do on the floor.

4. Stress Relief

Don’t underestimate the stress relief that stems from participating in aerial yoga classes. If you happen to be going through a rough time or experiencing anxiety attacks, aerial yoga will help put your mind at ease. It gives you an opportunity to meditate and focus on positive thoughts (while hanging upside-down!). Beyond just stress relief, the pros of being inverted include increased balance, more energy, and better focus. When you’re inverted, blood flows to your brain and provides oxygen it needs for brain function.

5. Burns Calories

Aerial yoga offers more than just peace and relaxation. It also helps burn calories through the balance it takes to stay control in the silks. Being suspended in the air requires a stable core as you change positions in a way a mat yoga class can’t. In fact, a study performed by the American Council on Exercise shows aerial yoga rivals the effectiveness of aerobic exercise. During a 50-minute aerial yoga session, you have the potential melt away 320 calories. After six weeks, your risk of cardiovascular disease will be significantly lower.

Try Aerial Yoga at our Albany Location!

We're excited to now offer Aerial yoga at our Albany yoga studio. Sign up online today, or browse our other class options!