Things you might like to know about Suspension/Inversion Yoga
Suspension/Inversion Yoga is a fun way to practice any form of yoga, suspended in a beautiful hammock made of parachute fabric!
Classes range from Beginner to Intermediate with a wide variety of styles to choose from.
Is Suspension Yoga safe?
It’s absolutely safe! When you come to the Introduction to Suspension classes, which are prerequisite for the other classes, I’ll show you all the installation and safety precautions to ensure that you are safe. The only people this practice would not be recommend for are people who’ve had recent head trauma or surgery that may not have healed, people with glaucoma, people with shoulder or joint dislocations, etc. Otherwise, yes! It’s perfectly safe!
What is the difference between “Aerial Yoga” and “Suspension Yoga”?
Both “Aerial Yoga” and “Suspension Yoga™” have combinations of aerial and grounded asana, although the equipment is very different and therefore the movements associated are different. In aerial yoga, there is a hammock-like sheet of fabric used (usually tricot), providing the support for the asana practice. In Suspension Yoga™, there is an adjustable sling of supportive fabric used, and there are added handles that further expand practitioner’s experience. In a Suspension Yoga™ class, these handles are used separately or in conjunction with the sling to help to modify and further enhance each posture. The YogiGym® Suspension System has added cushioning and adjustment features that create exceptional comfort and versatility.
Is there a weight rating?
Yes, for up to 300lbs! The hammocks themselves are made from recycled parachute fabric, which is extremely durable. Once a parachute’s been deployed, it cannot be used again. YogiGym® hammocks are made in Bali and are the most ethically produced and eco-friendly aerial yoga swing available.
What do I wear?
You don’t want to wear anything that’s nylon or too slippery. No shorts or bulky accessories like belts or jewelry. Regular yoga clothing is OK. Women will likely want a secure sports bra to secure themselves up top; men might feel more comfortable in briefs to secure themselves too. You’ll definitely want to have bare feet.
Do I have to be flexible?
Absolutely not! There is such a wide range of ways to practice with the equipment, from extremely gentle to very athletic. We usually cover a bit of each style in the Introduction to Suspension Yoga classes. From there you just choose the class that’s tailored to your needs. Everything from restorative to hatha to strength training.
Why do I have to sign up in advance?
Spaces are limited. I like people to register in advance to secure their spot. This ensures people don’t show up and get disappointed if there isn’t an open spot for them.
I am really fit and active. Can't I just come to an Intermediate class?
The short answer is no. Without experiencing the equipment and being shown the functions of the equipment, it’s not recommended. Largely because in the beginner workshops and courses, you’re given the opportunity to build muscle memory surrounding some of the intricacies of getting in and out of the poses. This is important because, even if you’ve practiced yoga or dance for a long time and your body is physically capable, once you add the intricacies of the new poses, it’s like having to learn the processes over again. When people get into the equipment, I see it all the time, especially when we’re upside down; left-right-up-down don’t make sense! Also, when we have an intermediate class with people who’ve been doing it for a while, it kind of interrupts the flow of the class if we have to stop to keep helping a beginner.