Natalie Tries: AntiGravity Yoga

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Anti-gravity. My initial thought was spacesuits and moon boots, so I was a tad disappointed to discover that the class wasn’t taking place in an actual anti-gravity chamber. By anti-gravity they mean that you’ll be doing yoga whilst suspended from the ceiling in a swinging hammock… sounds simple.

I entered the studio, which was filled with swing-like trapezes hanging from the ceiling, with some trepidation. I had never tried yoga on the ground, let alone hanging upside down. But when the bubbly instructor arrived she reassured me that this class was suitable for complete beginners and that she would walk through every stage. I grabbed the sturdiest looking trapeze and prepared to have my world flipped on its head.

What is it?

AntiGravity Yoga is derived from the American acrobatic performance troupe AntiGravity who have performed everywhere from the Olympics to Broadway with their range of stunning aerial arts. The technique claims to be beneficial to the everyday athlete by providing a complete workout whilst realigning your body from the compression of gravity.

But is it really possible to combine the vibrancy and dynamism of circus arts with the calm and peaceful values of yoga? I was about to find out.

What to expect

As there were quite a few beginners it took a bit of time to get everyone set up with their trapezes and to walk through the first few moves, but then we literally got into the swing of it.

The class combines high-intensity aerobic exercises with deep stretching and breathing in various positions, always partially or fully suspended from the floor. There are always different levels available so you can make your workout as difficult as you want it.

Then the circus element comes into play. The class were taught some basic moves that involved suspending yourself upside down, forward flips and backward flips. If you’re nervous about this, the instructor is available to spot you, but the trapezes are so sturdy that you actually feel pretty confident flipping around in the air. I loved the feeling of completely letting myself go and summoning the courage to fall straight back. Not only does it boost your confidence and give you an endorphin rush, but your core will be trembling after the effort of keeping your balance!

…And exhale

The nicest thing about this class was the calming warm-down. Panting from all the acrobatics we climbed into ‘The Womb’ position, where you are sat cross-legged in your trapeze with the material wrapped all around you. It’s your own little world.

As a yoga novice, I was sceptical when the instructors soothing voice came through my trapeze and told us to ‘turn down the little distractions and let your mind be free.’ But after a deep exhale I felt my body relax into the trapeze and to my utter shock I was able to really shut off from my mind. All those nagging thoughts we always have; bills, deadlines, emails, faded away into quietness and I was able to truly relax. Even the worst workaholic can’t fail to feel calm after a session in the ‘womb’.

The benefits

It’s low impact – Being suspended means you aren’t putting any pressure on your knees or ankles, so it does wonders for your joints. It’s much better for bad knees than pounding the treadmill.

Full-body – Unlike regular yoga there is a huge focus on your upper-body strength as well as your legs, as you need to support your own weight. You’ll come away feeling worked from top to toe.

Balancing act – The class will help to improve your awareness of your own body and help you to balance. This in turn works your core and will help to enhance your agility on the ground.

It’s fun – What can be more fun and original than flipping from the ceiling in a trapeze? And with hilarious movement names like ‘The Skirted Monkey’ and ‘The Cupid’ there’s nothing not to enjoy.

Don’t forget

- Wear leggings and a long-sleeved top for comfort.
- Don’t wear jewellery that could catch on the trapezes.
- Bring water, you will get sweaty!
The classes are £25 per session. Or you can get three sessions for just £35! Book yours by going to londondanceacademy.co.uk

Natalie Morris, Sportsister
The Women’s Sport Magazine

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