What to Wear to Aerial Yoga: A Comprehensive Guide
Aerial yoga, a captivating blend of yoga and aerial acrobatics, offers a unique and invigorating workout. But before you soar through the air, choosing the right attire is crucial for comfort, safety, and performance. This guide will help you determine what to wear to aerial yoga, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience.
What to Wear:
-
Form-fitting Clothing: Loose clothing can get caught in the silks, posing a safety hazard. Opt for form-fitting athletic wear that allows for a full range of motion without hindering your movements. Think leggings or yoga pants, and a fitted top.
-
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Aerial yoga can be a strenuous workout, leaving you sweaty. Materials like nylon, polyester, or blends that wick away moisture will keep you comfortable and prevent the silks from becoming slippery. Avoid cotton, as it tends to retain sweat and can become heavy.
-
Long Sleeves (Optional): While not always necessary, long sleeves can offer extra protection from friction against the silks, particularly for beginners. They also provide extra warmth if the studio is cool.
-
Bare Feet or Grippy Socks: You'll be barefoot most of the time, but if your feet are particularly sensitive or the studio floor is cold, grippy socks designed for yoga are a good choice. Avoid regular socks as they can bunch up and be uncomfortable.
What NOT to Wear:
-
Loose Clothing: As mentioned earlier, loose clothing poses a serious safety risk. Avoid baggy shirts, wide-legged pants, or anything that could get caught in the silks.
-
Jewelry: Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can all be dangerous during aerial yoga. They can snag on the silks or cause injury to yourself or others. Remove all jewelry before class.
-
Zippers, Buttons, or Hooks: These can also snag on the silks or be uncomfortable against your skin. Opt for seamless clothing whenever possible.
-
Cotton Clothing: Cotton clothing tends to become heavy and uncomfortable when wet with sweat, making it less ideal for aerial yoga.
H2: What if I'm a beginner?
Beginners often feel more comfortable wearing long sleeves and longer leggings to provide more coverage and reduce friction. As you become more confident, you may find you prefer shorter sleeves or tighter leggings. The key is to prioritize safety and comfort.
H2: Does the material of the silks matter?
While you won't be choosing the silks themselves, it's worth noting that different materials may affect the grip and feel. Some studios may use silks that are more prone to slipping if worn with certain fabrics. If you have concerns, it's best to ask your instructor.
H2: What about shoes?
As mentioned before, aerial yoga is typically done barefoot or with grippy yoga socks. Shoes are not recommended and could pose a safety risk.
H2: Are there any specific brands recommended for aerial yoga clothing?
There aren't any specific brands exclusively designed for aerial yoga. Many popular athletic wear brands offer clothing suitable for aerial yoga, providing you choose form-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose appropriate attire that prioritizes safety and allows you to fully enjoy the transformative experience of aerial yoga. Remember to always prioritize comfort and safety above all else. Listen to your body and adjust your clothing as needed.
