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Aerial or anti-gravity yoga is one of the most popular trends currently sweeping the yoga world. Invented by a former gymnast and Broadway choreographer in New York, it combines yoga poses, pilates and air suspension, and involves practising yoga in a hammock-like apparatus attached to the ceiling.
For those already well acquainted with the vivid images of svelte bodies suspended mid-air in phenomenal poses, it may appear to be somewhat intimidating. Julio Martinez, co-founder and yoga instructor at Badalona studio The Art of Living in BMS, where aerial yoga is taught, explained why so many people are drawn to it: “Aerial yoga is one of the most acrobatic styles, which attracts new customers because it is not only good for your health but also fun!”
Different levels are taught at The Art of Living in BMS, which means that students are able to ease into it or push past their comfort zones at whatever pace they are happy. “The amount of calories burned in a one-hour class is massive, sometimes reaching more than 300,” Martinez added. “You will improve muscle tone, balance and concentration, which is required to be truly present in the practice.”
When asked about those who are hesitant to give it a try, he replied with a smile: “I believe that the only way to know if something is good for you is to try it. We are often searching for a magic pill that helps us to overcome difficult moments, depression, stress, etc. But only through action can you start to move forward. So I recommend trying yoga in any style. Just jump onto the mat!”
Another local yoga school, YOGABODY, offers yoga trapeze—a hybrid of aerial yoga developed using its unique yoga slings. With three studios across Barcelona, the principles are similar to other inversion yoga training systems that involve traction, posterior chain strength and passive flexibility practices.
“This type of yoga is becoming more popular because it is fun, challenging and a different way to practise,” said Lucas Rockwood, founder of YOGABODY. “It improves strength, flexibility, spinal health, spinal traction and it is an excellent stress reliever!” And whilst there may be some who still find the prospects of being suspended by their legs daunting, Lucas insists that it is suitable for most people. “Anyone with back pain, lack of strength, or a love of yoga should give it a go. It is genuinely suited for most ages and backgrounds. I would not recommend it to people who are pregnant, those with acute injuries, high blood pressure, or glaucoma, but apart from that, it’s great for everyone else.”