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Aerial Yoga Takes Flight in Maryland

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/13/aerial-yoga-takes-flight-in-maryland.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, January 13th 2026 at 17:35 GMT by CBS News
      Locales: Maryland, UNITED STATES

Baltimore, MD - January 13th, 2026 - A novel fitness practice is gaining significant traction across Maryland, captivating enthusiasts with its unique blend of traditional yoga and the exhilarating challenge of aerial silks. Aerial yoga, far from being a niche activity, is rapidly evolving into a mainstream fitness option for individuals seeking a fresh and engaging workout.

At its core, aerial yoga retains the fundamental principles of traditional yoga - mindful movement, breathwork, and body awareness - but elevates the experience through the incorporation of suspended silk fabrics. This innovative approach, as explained by Bethany Johnson, owner of Baltimore's Fly Athletic, fundamentally alters how individuals interact with their bodies and their environment.

"It's really just like yoga, but you have the added element of the silks to assist you," Johnson clarifies. "You're able to deepen stretches, work on your strength, and really just play." The silks aren't merely props; they become integral tools, supporting and guiding participants through a range of poses, allowing for deeper stretches and increased strength-building opportunities than traditional floor-based yoga often provides.

Beyond the Physical: Therapeutic Benefits & Mental Wellbeing

The appeal of aerial yoga extends far beyond just the physical benefits. Participants frequently describe a deeply therapeutic and empowering experience. The unconventional nature of the practice, suspending oneself from silks, encourages a heightened sense of body awareness and spatial orientation. This, in turn, fosters a connection between the mind and body that many find profoundly beneficial.

"It's a very therapeutic form of movement," Johnson emphasizes. "You're using your body in a completely different way, and it's really opening up the mind and body." The challenge of navigating and controlling one's body while suspended can be incredibly liberating, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-confidence. The playful aspect of the practice, often incorporating inversions and dynamic movements, contributes to a reduced stress environment and increased enjoyment of physical activity.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: A Class for Everyone

Perhaps one of the most significant factors contributing to aerial yoga's burgeoning popularity is its inclusivity. Studios across Maryland, including Fly Athletic, consistently prioritize creating a welcoming and accessible environment for individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds. Classes are structured to cater to a wide range of abilities, from complete beginners to those with prior yoga or aerial experience.

"We have people of all shapes and sizes, all different skill levels," Johnson confirms. "You don't have to be a gymnast. You don't have to have any aerial experience. You just have to be willing to try something new." This commitment to inclusivity democratizes the practice, ensuring that anyone who desires to experience the benefits of aerial yoga can do so.

What to Expect & Where to Find It

The unique blend of physical and mental benefits - increased flexibility, core strength, improved balance, stress reduction, and a renewed sense of playfulness - make aerial yoga a compelling alternative to traditional fitness routines. It's a journey of self-discovery and physical challenge, all while suspended from beautifully draped silks.

If you're intrigued to explore this emerging fitness trend, Fly Athletic in Baltimore offers a diverse schedule of classes. Numerous other studios throughout Maryland are also incorporating aerial yoga into their offerings. A quick online search using keywords such as "aerial yoga Maryland" or "aerial fitness Baltimore" will reveal a variety of options catering to different schedules and price points.

As Maryland's fitness landscape continues to evolve, aerial yoga's innovative approach and proven benefits suggest its presence will only continue to grow, providing a unique and rewarding experience for years to come.