🪂5 Essential Tips for Your First Aerial Yoga Class

Trying aerial yoga for the first time can feel equal parts exciting and intimidating. Between the floating poses, silky hammocks, and upside-down stretches, it’s definitely not your typical yoga class. But don’t worry — whether your goal is to build strength, improve flexibility, or simply have fun, aerial yoga is surprisingly beginner-friendly when you know what to expect.

Here are five essential things to know before your first aerial yoga class to help you feel confident, safe, and ready to fly.

1.🪂 It’s Not Just for the Super Flexible or Athletic

A common misconception is that aerial yoga is only for gymnasts or acrobats — absolutely not! Most studios welcome total beginners, and instructors regularly offer modifications for every body type and fitness level.

The beauty of aerial yoga is that the hammock supports your body weight, often making poses easier than they are on the mat. Over time, you’ll naturally develop core strength, balance, and flexibility.

✅ Pro tip: Let your instructor know it’s your first class. They’ll guide you through the basics and make sure you’re comfortable in each pose.

2. 👚 What You Wear to Aerial Yoga Matters

When it comes to aerial yoga clothing, comfort and safety go hand in hand. The wrong outfit can make inversions tricky or even damage the hammock, so it’s worth getting it right.

✅ Wear:

• Fitted leggings and a snug top to prevent snagging
• Short or long sleeves to avoid fabric friction burns
• No zippers or jewelry (they can tear the hammock)

🚫 Avoid:

• Loose tops that slide when you’re inverted
• Lotions or body oils before class (they make the hammock slippery)

3. 💪 Expect a Little Discomfort — Especially at First

During your first aerial yoga session, the hammock may press against your hips, thighs, or underarms. That’s normal! These pressure points help you learn how to distribute your weight and engage your core properly.

With regular practice, your body adapts — and soon, those positions will feel completely natural.

✅ Pro tip: Always communicate with your instructor. They can adjust the fabric height or offer a more comfortable alternative.

4. 🙃 Inversions Are Optional (But Incredible!)

Yes, aerial yoga includes inversions, but you’ll never be forced into anything you’re not ready for. Hanging upside down helps decompress the spine, relieve back tension, and improve circulation — but it’s also perfectly fine to stay grounded until you feel confident.

✅ First-timer advice:

• Take it slow
• Stay close to the ground
• Breathe deeply
• Trust the hammock (most hold 1,000+ kgs safely!)

5. 🌸 You’ll Feel Both Relaxed and Empowered

Your first aerial yoga class might leave you feeling a mix of calm, strength, and pure joy. The floating movements challenge your body while freeing your mind.

At the end of class, you’ll rest in savasana — gently cocooned in the hammock — where you’ll experience deep relaxation and lightness like never before.

✅ Bonus: Expect to discover new muscles you didn’t know you had!

✨ Final Thoughts

Walking into your first aerial yoga class can feel like stepping into the unknown — but soon you’ll see it’s a supportive, uplifting, and empowering space (literally and figuratively!).

Show up with curiosity, embrace the wobble, and let yourself enjoy the playfulness of being in the air. You’ll leave feeling stronger, taller, and maybe even a little more fearless.