Aerial yoga, a dynamic and evolving form of exercise, combines traditional yoga poses with the added benefit of using a suspended hammock or aerial silk. This innovative practice allows for greater flexibility, balance, and strength, while also offering therapeutic benefits like improved posture and spinal alignment. But, as with any fitness activity, the right attire plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort, safety, and the best possible experience.
While many yogis are familiar with the appropriate attire for standard yoga classes, aerial yoga requires some additional consideration. What might be suitable for a regular yoga class may not work in an aerial setting due to the different dynamics of the practice. Wearing the wrong clothing can not only hinder your performance but also lead to discomfort, distraction, or even injury. In this article, we will explore what not to wear to aerial yoga and provide helpful tips for choosing the right attire for your next aerial yoga session.
1. Loose or Baggy Clothes
Loose clothing may seem like a comfortable option when it comes to yoga, but when practicing aerial yoga, this is one of the worst choices you can make. Here’s why:
Risk of getting caught in the hammock: Aerial yoga uses a suspended hammock, which you will interact with frequently during the class. Baggy clothes, especially those with loose straps, long sleeves, or wide pants, can easily get tangled in the fabric. This can not only interfere with your practice but also cause potential safety issues.
Lack of support: Loose clothing doesn’t provide the support your body needs for many aerial yoga poses. It may shift during inversions, making you uncomfortable and distracted.
Lack of visibility: Tight-fitting clothing helps instructors see your body alignment more clearly, ensuring they can offer adjustments if necessary. Loose clothes obstruct this view, which may limit your instructor’s ability to correct your form.
Instead, opt for form-fitting clothes that are stretchy and breathable. Leggings or yoga pants and a fitted top are perfect choices. These provide the flexibility you need while ensuring that you stay secure in your movements.
2. Clothing with Zippers, Buttons, or Other Hard Fasteners
Anything with metal or hard fasteners, such as zippers, buttons, clasps, and hooks, should be avoided when practicing aerial yoga. These hard materials can cause several problems:
Discomfort: Zippers, buttons, and other hard fasteners may dig into your skin when you’re hanging or performing poses. This discomfort can distract you from the flow of your practice.
Damage to the hammock: Aerial yoga hammocks are made from durable materials, but the metal parts of zippers or buttons can cause damage to the fabric of the hammock over time. This can weaken the material, shortening its lifespan.
Increased risk of injury: In some cases, hard fasteners may become caught in the hammock or on other equipment, potentially causing you to lose your balance or even experience a fall.
Choose clothing that is smooth and free from hard elements. Items like form-fitting leggings, tops, or one-piece bodysuits are excellent alternatives, as they don’t have any sharp components that can interfere with your practice.
3. Footwear
While it may seem like footwear is an essential part of any workout, aerial yoga is one activity where shoes are not only unnecessary but can also be a hindrance. Wearing shoes during aerial yoga is discouraged for several reasons:
Lack of grip: Most aerial yoga poses involve hanging or balancing on a hammock or silks. Shoes, especially those with thick soles, can prevent your feet from getting a good grip on the fabric, making it more difficult to maintain proper balance.
Restricted movement: Shoes, particularly those designed for running or hiking, can restrict the natural movement of your feet and ankles. In aerial yoga, your feet need to move freely and adapt to various poses, and shoes simply aren’t conducive to this.
Safety concerns: Shoes can get caught in the hammock, especially during inversions. This may cause you to lose your balance or even lead to a fall.
Instead of wearing shoes, practice barefoot to allow your feet to fully engage with the hammock. If you prefer some foot coverage, consider wearing grippy yoga socks that are designed for use in aerial or floor-based yoga practices.
4. Clothing with Drawstrings
Clothing with drawstrings or ties, such as sweatpants or hoodies, can be a potential hazard during aerial yoga practice. Drawstrings can become easily caught in the hammock, leading to distractions or even dangerous situations:
Tangled or caught drawstrings: If the drawstrings of your pants or top get caught in the hammock, it can result in an awkward position or loss of control during a pose.
Distraction: Having to constantly adjust your clothing or deal with tangled drawstrings can take your focus away from your practice, making it harder to concentrate on your breathing and form.
If you prefer pants or tops with an adjustable fit, choose options that feature elastic waistbands or flat seams instead of drawstrings. This way, you’ll avoid the risk of snagging the fabric and stay comfortable throughout your practice.
5. Jewelry
Many aerial yoga practitioners forget that jewelry, while a common part of everyday fashion, can be a safety hazard in an aerial yoga setting. The hammock fabric can snag on necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or rings, leading to potential accidents:
Tangled jewelry: If you wear long necklaces, dangling earrings, or stacked bracelets, they may get caught on the hammock or your own clothing. This could cause discomfort and potentially injury.
Distraction: Jewelry can become a distraction during your practice. The sensation of a bracelet sliding down your arm or a necklace digging into your skin can pull your focus away from the poses and breathing techniques.
To avoid this, remove any jewelry before your aerial yoga class. If you must wear something, opt for small, simple pieces like stud earrings or a minimalist ring, but always prioritize safety.
6. Heavy Fabrics or Unbreathable Materials
In aerial yoga, you will be moving through dynamic and sometimes strenuous poses. For this reason, it is essential to wear fabrics that are breathable and lightweight. Heavy or non-breathable fabrics can lead to discomfort, excessive sweating, and irritation. Materials like denim, polyester, or other thick fabrics don’t allow your skin to breathe, causing your body temperature to rise and possibly leading to overheating.
Instead, choose light, moisture-wicking materials like cotton blends, spandex, or performance fabrics. These materials will allow for better airflow, wick away sweat, and ensure that you remain comfortable as you move through your practice.
7. Anything Too Tight or Restrictive
While form-fitting clothing is recommended for aerial yoga, it is essential that the clothing is not too tight or restrictive. Tight clothing can cause:
Restricted movement: If your clothing is overly tight, it can impede your ability to stretch, twist, and move freely. Aerial yoga requires a range of motion, and tight clothes can prevent you from fully engaging in poses.
Discomfort or bruising: Clothes that are too tight can dig into your skin, leading to irritation or even bruising, especially in sensitive areas like your inner thighs or waist.
Opt for clothing that is snug but has enough stretch to allow for full mobility. Consider fabrics that are designed for high-performance activity, such as Lycra, Spandex, or nylon, as these materials offer both flexibility and breathability.
8. Makeup and Heavy Hair Products
While not technically clothing, makeup and heavy hair products can interfere with your aerial yoga practice. During an aerial yoga session, you will be upside down, sweating, and engaging in movements that require full concentration. Wearing heavy makeup or using excessive amounts of hair products can lead to:
Skin irritation: Sweating while wearing makeup can clog pores, leading to breakouts or skin irritation.
Messy hair: Excessive hair products may cause your hair to slip or become sticky during inversions, making it difficult to manage.
It’s advisable to keep makeup minimal and avoid heavy products. Consider tying your hair back into a secure bun, braid, or ponytail to prevent it from getting in your face during your practice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for aerial yoga is an essential part of ensuring a comfortable, safe, and effective practice. Avoiding loose, baggy clothes, clothing with hard fasteners, footwear, and jewelry will allow you to focus on your poses without distractions. Additionally, selecting breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and avoiding tight or restrictive clothing will help you move with ease through each posture.
Remember, the right attire is not only about aesthetics but also about safety and functionality. The best clothes for aerial yoga are those that offer flexibility, support, and comfort, so you can enjoy the full benefits of this exciting practice.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your aerial yoga experience to the fullest and leave the distractions and discomforts behind. Happy flying!
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