Unleash Your Inner Acrobat: What to Wear for Aerial Yoga

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Are you looking to add a unique and invigorating exercise to your routine? Look no further than aerial yoga! With its combination of traditional yoga poses and acrobatic movements, aerial yoga offers a challenging and exhilarating workout experience. But before you hit the silk hammocks, the question remains: what should you wear for aerial yoga? Fear not, as we break down the best attire for this exciting practice. From supportive yet comfortable clothing to protective gear, read on to discover what to wear for aerial yoga!

Introduction

Aerial yoga is a unique and innovative form of yoga that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It involves performing traditional yoga poses while suspended in a hammock or silk fabric, allowing for deeper stretches and more creative movements. For those interested in trying aerial yoga, one of the most common questions is: what should I wear? In this guide, we’ll dive into all the essential information you need to know about what to wear for aerial yoga.

What is Aerial Yoga?

Before discussing what to wear for aerial yoga, it’s important to understand what exactly this practice is. Aerial yoga combines aspects of traditional yoga, Pilates, and acrobatics, using a hammock or silk fabric as a prop to support the body and facilitate movement. The suspended nature of the practice allows for weightless movements and unique sequences that can’t be achieved on the ground.

Aerial yoga not only offers physical benefits such as improved flexibility and strength but also carries mental benefits like stress relief and increased focus. It’s a fun and challenging way to add variety to your exercise routine while also reaping the benefits of traditional yoga.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The first step in figuring out what to wear for aerial yoga is selecting the right fabric. There are two main options when it comes to aerial fabrics: silk and nylon (also known as parachute) fabrics. Silk fabric is softer with more stretch, allowing for deeper stretches and more fluid movements. On the other hand, nylon fabric has less stretch but offers more grip, making it easier to hold poses.

When choosing between silk or nylon fabric, consider your own comfort level and experience with aerial yoga. If you’re just starting out, opting for silk may be more forgiving on the body; however, if you’re looking for a greater challenge or have prior experience with aerial yoga, nylon might be the better option.

Clothing Options

Now that you’ve decided on the fabric, it’s time to consider what to wear for aerial yoga. Here are some recommended clothing options to ensure a comfortable and safe aerial yoga practice:

Leggings

Leggings are a staple in any yoga practice, and aerial yoga is no exception. The fabric of your leggings should be lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking to prevent overheating during the practice. Avoid wearing leggings with zippers, buttons, or pockets as they may snag on the fabric or hammock.

Fitted Tops

For tops, opt for a fitted shirt or tank top made of a breathable material that allows for unrestricted movement. Loose or baggy tops may get in the way and cause discomfort while performing inverted poses.

Bare Feet

Wearing shoes during an aerial yoga class is not recommended as they can damage the fabric and make it more challenging to grip onto the hammock. Going barefoot also allows you to feel more connected to the movements and poses.

Safety Considerations

Aside from comfort and practicality, safety is also an essential factor when it comes to figuring out what to wear for aerial yoga. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

No Jewelry

It’s important to remove all jewelry before starting an aerial yoga class. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, and even earrings can get caught on the hammock or fabric and cause accidents or discomforts.

No Oils or Lotions

Avoid applying oils or lotions on your skin before an aerial yoga class as they can make your skin slippery and increase the risk of slipping off the fabric.

Full Coverage Undergarments

Since you’ll be suspended in the air, it’s important to wear full coverage undergarments for comfort and modesty. Ladies should avoid wearing sports bras with front closures as they can dig into the body during inverted poses.

Conclusion

When it comes to deciding what to wear for aerial yoga, comfort, safety, and practicality should be your top concerns. Choose lightweight and breathable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement and avoid any zippers, buttons, or jewelry that may snag or cause discomfort. Ultimately, finding the right clothing will enhance your aerial yoga experience and allow you to focus on the practice itself. So, dress comfortably, let go of any expectations, and enjoy the freedom of movement that aerial yoga offers.

Benefits of Aerial Yoga Clothes

Choosing the right clothing for any type of physical activity is important, and aerial yoga is no exception. The clothes you wear can greatly affect your performance, comfort, and safety during an aerial yoga class. In this section, we will discuss the benefits of wearing the right clothes for aerial yoga.

1. Comfort: Aerial yoga involves a lot of stretching, flipping and hanging upside down. This means that the clothes you wear need to be comfortable and allow for free movement. Tight or restrictive clothing can hinder your movements and make it challenging to perform certain poses. Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics are ideal for aerial yoga as they allow your body to move freely without any restrictions.

2. Safety: Safety should always be a top priority when practicing any form of physical activity. With aerial yoga, you are suspended in the air using a silk hammock so it’s crucial that your clothing does not get entangled in the fabric. Loose accessories like jewelry or baggy clothing can pose a danger as they can get caught in the silk causing accidents or injuries.

3. Grip: Wearing the right clothing can also help with your grip while performing different poses on the silk hammock. Fabrics like cotton or polyester can cause slipping or sliding which can make it challenging to hold onto the silks. Opting for fabrics like spandex or lycra can provide better grip and prevent slipping.

4. Support: Aerial yoga requires a lot of core strength and stability to perform different poses smoothly. Choosing clothing with built-in support such as sports bras or compression leggings can provide additional support for your muscles which is essential when hanging upside down.

5. Temperature control: During an aerial yoga class, you may feel hot from exertion but also cool down quickly when resting in between poses. Wearing layers like tank tops with long-sleeved shirts or leggings with shorts can help you regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable throughout the class.

Recommended Clothing for Aerial Yoga

Now that we have discussed the benefits of wearing the right clothes for aerial yoga, let’s take a closer look at what types of clothing are recommended for this unique form of yoga.

1. Leggings: Leggings are a popular choice for many aerial yoga enthusiasts as they provide both comfort and flexibility. Look for leggings made with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry during a rigorous class. You can also opt for leggings with a high waistband to prevent any skin exposure when doing inverted poses.

2. Tank tops: When it comes to tops, tank tops are a great option as they allow your arms to move freely without any restrictions. Loose-fitting tank tops made with breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo can help regulate your body temperature and keep you cool during intense aerial yoga sessions.

3. Sports bras: As mentioned earlier, aerial yoga requires a lot of core strength which means you need proper support for your chest. Sports bras designed specifically for high-intensity activities are an ideal choice as they provide optimal support and comfort while still allowing for full range of motion.

4. Compression wear: Compression wear is another great option for aerial yoga as it not only provides support but also promotes circulation and reduces muscle fatigue during long classes. Compression leggings or shorts are perfect for those who want extra stability and support in their practice.

5. Fitted tops: If you prefer wearing more fitted clothing, opt for tops that are made with stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric like spandex or lycra. They can provide comfort and flexibility while still hugging your body in all the right places.

Tips for Choosing Aerial Yoga Clothes

Not sure where to start when it comes to choosing the right clothes for aerial yoga? Here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you make the best decisions for your practice.

1. Stick to fitted clothing: As mentioned earlier, loose clothing can get caught in the silk hammock and cause accidents or injuries. It is best to stick to fitted clothing that won’t get in your way during complex poses.

2. Beware of zippers and buttons: Zippers and buttons can also pose a danger when practicing aerial yoga as they can scratch or damage the silk hammock. Make sure your clothing doesn’t have any exposed hardware that could potentially cause harm.

3. Look for high-quality fabrics: Aerial yoga involves a lot of stretching, twisting, and sweating which means you need clothing that can withstand all of this without falling apart. Choose high-quality fabrics that are durable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking to ensure comfort and longevity.

4. Prioritize comfort over fashion: While it may be tempting to choose fashionable clothes for your aerial yoga class, comfort should always come first. You want to focus on your practice without worrying about adjusting or fixing your clothes every few minutes.

5. Consider the weather: Try to choose clothes that are appropriate for the weather outside as well as the temperature inside the studio. For warmer months, opt for light-weight, breathable fabrics while thicker fabrics like fleece

1. What should I wear for an aerial yoga class?
Aerial yoga requires clothing that provides comfortable coverage and flexibility. You can wear leggings or fitted shorts with a comfortable tank top or sports bra. Avoid loose or baggy clothes as they can get caught in the fabric hammock.

2. Can I wear any type of shoes for aerial yoga?
No, it is recommended to practice barefoot to avoid slipping on the fabric hammock. Some studios may allow you to wear non-slip socks, but most prefer bare feet for better grip and to fully engage your muscles.

3. Should I bring any specific accessories for an aerial yoga class?
You don’t need to bring any special equipment as the studio will provide the fabric hammocks. However, some studios may require you to bring a small towel to wipe down the hammocks after use. It is also recommended to bring a bottle of water for hydration during and after class.

4. What type of fabric is used in aerial yoga hammocks?
Most aerial yoga studios use high-quality, low-stretch fabrics such as nylon tricot or parachute silk material for their hammocks. These materials are strong enough to hold your body weight while providing comfort and support during your practice.

5. Can I wear jewelry while doing aerial yoga?
It is best not to wear any jewelry that can get tangled in the fabric hammock, such as long necklaces, bracelets, or dangling earrings. This can be dangerous and distracting during your practice. It is recommended to remove all jewelry before class.

6. Are there any specific clothing guidelines based on body size for aerial yoga?
Aerial yoga is accessible for people of all shapes and sizes, so you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. However, it is important to avoid clothing that restricts movement or causes discomfort, as the fabric hammocks require a lot of flexibility and mobility. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended for plus-size individuals.

In conclusion, aerial yoga is a unique and challenging form of exercise that requires careful consideration when it comes to choosing appropriate attire. The most important factors in selecting what to wear for aerial yoga include comfort, flexibility, and safety. It is crucial to opt for stretchy and breathable fabrics that allow for a full range of motion while providing support and coverage. Additionally, considering the specific needs of your body type and the type of exercises you will be performing can greatly enhance your overall experience with aerial yoga.

Furthermore, accessories such as grip gloves or socks can enhance your stability and grip on the aerial hammock, making it easier to perform poses safely. It is also essential to avoid wearing any jewelry or clothing with zippers, buttons, or other sharp edges that could potentially snag or tear the hammock. Practicing proper hygiene by wearing clean clothes and avoiding perfumes or lotions before class is crucial in maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for all participants.

Ultimately, the key takeaway when it comes to what to wear for aerial yoga is prioritizing comfort and safety while also expressing personal style through your clothing choices. Experimenting with different outfits and finding what works best for your body and practice can add an enjoyable element to your sessions. Keeping these considerations in mind will not only elevate your physical

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.