Aerial yoga and aerial silks (or aerial fabrics) are two related forms of exercise that use suspended fabrics to perform techniques and movements in the air. While similar, they have significant differences in their philosophy, technique, and objectives.
Aerial Yoga
Aerial yoga combines traditional yoga poses with modern aerial dance and acrobatic techniques. It uses a special fabric hammock suspended from the ceiling that supports the body’s weight. It was developed in recent decades as an evolution of classical yoga, focusing on well-being and the sense of freedom that comes from swaying.
Aerial Silks
Aerial silks are an acrobatic art form that uses long pieces of fabric suspended from the ceiling. The practitioner climbs, wraps themselves up, and performs impressive poses without a safety net. It originates from the circus world and requires significant strength, flexibility, and technical skill.
Key differences between them
- Equipment structure:
- Aerial yoga uses a U-shaped hammock that supports the body at various points.
- Aerial silks consist of two long pieces of fabric that hang parallel to each other.
- Vertical clearance (height from the floor):
- Aerial yoga is typically practiced at a lower height, with the hammock positioned approximately 1 meter off the ground.
- Aerial silks require a greater height—often 4 to 6 meters—to perform drops and spins.
- Access:
- Aerial yoga focuses on well-being, meditation, and improving posture.
- Aerial silks emphasize skill, artistic expression, and aerial choreography.
- Difficulty level:
- Aerial yoga is more accessible to beginners and people of various ages and fitness levels.
- Aerial silks require a good level of physical fitness from the start and involve a higher degree of risk.
The benefits of aerial yoga
Why are so many people enthusiastic about aerial yoga?
- Physical benefits:
- Decompresses the spine and relieves back pain
- Improves posture and alignment
- Strengthens the core without putting strain on the joints
- Increases flexibility, as gravity helps deepen stretches
- Psychological benefits:
- Reduces stress through a sensation of floating
- Offers a new perspective on classic yoga poses
- Boosts self-confidence by helping to overcome fears
- Promotes concentration and body awareness
- Accessibility:
- Suitable for beginners with limited flexibility
- Allows for the execution of challenging poses with the support of a hammock
- Offers modifications for different skill levels
The magic of aerial yoga and aerial silks
What makes aerial silks so impressive and exciting?
- Artistic expression:
- Combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and theater
- Enables the creation of stunning visual imagery
- Offers limitless possibilities for choreographic expression
- Physical development:
- Develops exceptional upper-body strength
- Builds muscular endurance and explosive power
- Improves body and spatial awareness
- Strengthens grip and hand strength
- Psychological empowerment:
- Cultivates courage and self-discipline
- Teaches the value of perseverance and sustained effort
- Provides a sense of achievement with every new technique mastered
Which one should you choose?
The choice between Aerial Yoga and Aerial Silks depends on your personal preferences and goals:
- Aerial yoga is a good fit for you if:
- You are interested in therapeutic benefits and well-being.
- You are looking for a more accessible introduction to aerial arts.
- You want to combine meditation with physical exercise.
- You have joint or back limitations.
- Aerial silks are a good fit for you if:
- You are drawn to the challenge and the spectacle.
- You possess good physical fitness and endurance.
- You want to develop your skills in an acrobatic art form.
- You are fascinated by the idea of performing.
It is worth noting that many people begin with Aerial Yoga (using swings or hammocks) as a more accessible introduction to aerial arts. Once they have built the necessary strength, become comfortable with being at heights, and grasped the fundamental techniques, they often transition to Aerial Silks. This natural progression allows students to gradually develop the required skills, making the transition to the more demanding art of aerial silks easier.
How to Get Started
Want to try your hand at aerial arts? Follow these steps:
- Find the right studio:
- Look for specialized studios with certified instructors.
- Check the safety measures in place and the quality of the equipment.
- Read reviews and ask about the instructors’ experience.
- Start at a beginner level:
- Even if you have experience with other forms of exercise, aerial techniques require specialized training.
- Learn the core safety principles properly.
- Get familiar with the equipment before attempting advanced movements.
- Invest in the right clothing:
- For Aerial Yoga: wear pants that cover your knees and shirts with sleeves.
- For Aerial Silks: wear leggings and shirts that cover your underarms and protect your skin.
- Avoid wearing jewelry, watches, or any items that could snag on the fabric.
- Respect your limits:
- Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard.
- Progress takes time, especially when it comes to aerial silks.
- Practice regularly, but give your body time to recover.
Aerial arts teach you to trust yourself, push past your limits, and view the world from a new perspective—both literally and figuratively.
Are you ready to try something new and discover the joy of aerial movement? The art of gliding through the air can transform how you perceive your body and its capabilities, starting today.
Your first step in Spain
Look into schools, associations, and cultural centers in your local area. Ask if you can attend a trial session, and be sure to confirm the language, skill level, schedule, and any required equipment. If you are planning to attend a performance or gathering, check the current program and the associated terms. To sustain this hobby, it is generally more effective to find a recurring activity you can return to, rather than purchasing equipment or committing to a long-term course right from the start.
Original article: 2025-05-15. Edition adapted for Spain: 27 October 2026. Read the Greek original. Original author: Eleni Agiou.
