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Aerial Yoga: Yoga with a Twist (and a Hammock!)

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 16:29 GMT by CBS News

What is Aerial Yoga?

At its core, aerial yoga builds upon the foundations of traditional yoga. The key differentiator lies in the equipment: instead of the familiar yoga mat, practitioners utilize a specially designed fabric hammock suspended from the ceiling. This seemingly simple alteration dramatically alters the workout experience. The hammock acts as a supportive tool, allowing individuals to perform yoga postures with a degree of ease and accessibility not always possible on a mat.

"It's really just yoga but with the added support of the hammock," explains instructor Ashley Colavito, reflecting a common sentiment among practitioners and instructors. This support isn't about eliminating the challenge, but rather, adapting it to a wider range of skill levels and body types. The hammock provides a degree of weight relief, making challenging poses more manageable and accessible. This allows students to explore poses they might otherwise perceive as unattainable due to limitations in strength or flexibility.

Beyond the Physical: The Feeling of Flight

For many participants, the appeal extends far beyond the physical benefits. There's an undeniable element of joy and wonder associated with the practice. Student Sarah Williams eloquently captures this sentiment: "You feel like you're flying." This sensation of lightness and freedom contributes significantly to the growing enthusiasm surrounding aerial yoga.

The Benefits: A Holistic Approach to Fitness

The advantages of aerial yoga are multi-faceted. While the assisted postures provide a gentle introduction to yoga principles, the practice offers substantial physical benefits. Increased flexibility is a hallmark of aerial yoga, as the hammock allows for deeper stretches and a wider range of motion. Strength building is another key advantage, engaging core muscles and upper body strength to maintain stability and control within the hammock. Perhaps less obvious, but equally valuable, is the potential for spinal decompression. The suspension and gentle movements can help alleviate pressure and tension in the spine, contributing to overall well-being. As instructor Ashley Colavito notes, "You're stretching your body in different ways than you normally would."

Accessibility and Cost

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of aerial yoga is its accessibility. While it might initially appear daunting or intimidating, studios across Maryland consistently emphasize that no prior yoga experience is necessary to begin. The supportive nature of the hammock allows newcomers to familiarize themselves with foundational poses in a comfortable and safe environment. "It's something that anybody can do," affirms Sarah Williams, reinforcing the welcoming atmosphere fostered by many studios.

In terms of cost, aerial yoga classes generally range between $20 and $35 per session, placing it within a reasonable price point for many potential participants. This, combined with its accessible nature, contributes to its continued growth in popularity.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Aerial Yoga in Maryland

With its unique combination of physical benefits, mental rejuvenation, and accessible entry point, aerial yoga appears poised to remain a significant player in Maryland's fitness landscape. As studios continue to expand and instructors innovate, we can expect to see further refinement of techniques and potentially even specialized classes catering to specific needs and interests. The trend's continued growth highlights a broader societal desire for unique, engaging, and holistic approaches to fitness and well-being.