Yoga Swings – Some Common Questions Answered

If you are new to aerial yoga, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this yoga swings FAQ, we will take a closer look at some of the questions that you may have regarding yoga swings, aerial yoga hammocks, yoga trapeze, yoga swing installation and aerial yoga equipment in general.

All types of aerial yoga hammocks are designed as yoga slings, fitness and suspension training, for relaxation, meditation and stress reduction, stretching as well as back pain relief through inversion therapy.

Let’s answer some of these questions…

 

1. Which are the different types of yoga hammocks?

When it’s time to purchase yoga hammocks, you will come across 2 main types of hammocks and a few different ways to set them up.

The two types are aerial hammocks and yoga swings, which normally anchor at two points, however you can also purchase a suspension system, allowing you to secure the equipment to a single point, and you can install it using a swivel.

 

Aerial hammocks are mainly used in yoga studios. Also known as inversion slings, these yoga hammocks measure approximately 2 to 3 meters. They are anchored on two points, thus providing an easy on and off.

While they are normally set at waist height, you can lower them especially when you are stretching or doing restorative yoga.

 

The yoga swings, popularly known as yoga trapeze comes with handles, with padded grips. These handles allow you to maneuver about an enhances your yoga practice by assisting you in going deeper into your poses, in a safe and effective manner.

It features multiple links, which makes it easy for the user to adjust its height, depending on the needs.

The Gravotonics Yoga Swings are the original and best, with parachute material, triple stitching and high tensile fittings.

 

Whenever you are bouncing, swinging up and down or performing all sorts of tricks and poses on your yoga hammocks, you will be placing a substantial amount of load both on the fabric and the anchor point as well.

Therefore, the anchor point needs to be fully capable of handling that dynamic load, so make sure your ceiling bracket can support at least 1,000 kg.

 

Most aerial equipment comes already pre-assembled, featuring hooks or carabiners to allow easy hanging from the daisy chains.

You can often adjust the yoga swings’ height by simply moving the runners along the fabric or shifting to another loop on the daisy chains.

The daisy chains are highly recommended for individuals who intend to adjust the height frequently. If you intend to use these yoga hammock swing for your home studio, then you can use the daisy chains length that corresponds with your ceiling height.

 

2. Is a mat needed under the yoga hammock?

Yes. Placing a mat under your yoga swing is highly recommended, especially for yoga moves that involve swings, drops, tumbles, flips, leaps and other high-risk poses. Mats are available in various types, thicknesses and sizes.

If you will be doing simple ground-based aerial yoga moves, then a thin mat should be more than enough. On the other hand, if you will be doing drops, swings and tumbles, then you should choose a crash pad or a thicker mat.

It’s important to note that mats will not provide save you from all injuries that you may incur when doing aerial yoga poses. While it can help to soften the fall, you can’t rely on it to prevent all injuries.

Therefore, if you are a beginner, you should first focus on mastering the basics before you attempt the complex moves.

 

3. How long should my aerial hammocks be?

The length will depend on how high or low you want to hang. But generally, it’s highly recommended to purchase at least 2 meters long for your inversion yoga hammocks.

From there, you can then adjust the rig point lower or higher using daisy chains, based on your needs.

If you will be simply using a fabric hammock, it is common to use 7 yards of hammock fabric so that you will have enough left for tying the knots.

If in doubt, find your anchor point, multiply it by two and then add at least 4 feet of extra fabric. And that’s the fabric that you will need.

 

4. How high should I hang the aerial swings?

The height that you choose will depend on your level as well as personal preferences. For instance, if you are a yoga swing beginner, then the hammock should fall just around hip height.

It should be high enough that your head will not touch the ground when you are inverted yet low enough that you bend over comfortably when doing the forward fold pose.

Most anti-gravity yoga swings come with daisy chains, which you can use to adjust the height to suit your preferences.

It’s advisable to hire a yoga swing installation expert if you are in doubt, who will help you to choose the best height based on your level of experience.

 

5. Can I hang yoga swings outside?

Yes. While most yoga swings are normally installed indoors, nothing should stop you from hanging your yoga swings outside.

Most yoga hammocks are weather-resistant, which means you can comfortably hang them outside.

However, it’s important to note that the colored fabrics will fade quite fast when exposed to direct sunlight for long.

So, if you intend to hang your yoga swings outside, then you should choose a place where they are sheltered against the elements.

In case you can’t find somewhere sheltered, then you should take them down once you’ve finished doing your yoga trapeze workouts and store them indoors.

A yoga swing stand is also a great option for someone who wants to be doing aerial yoga outside.

 

6. Can I hang yoga swings on trees?

Yes, as long as you can accurately determine the strength of the tree limb.

It is as easy as finding a strong, thick branch that is relatively horizontal.

Please be careful to make sure it is sturdy, as the branch may have internal damage caused by rot or pests.

 

7. Should I go for medium-stretch or low-stretch fabric?

Whether you should choose low-stretch fabric or medium-stretch fabric for your yoga hammocks will depend on two main things – your level of expertise and the moves that you are doing.

Low-stretch fabric is probably the most common type of fabric for aerial yoga hammock swings.

It’s easier to climb and easier to predict ground height, making it ideal for beginners and static poses.

Medium-stretch and high-stretch fabrics, on the other hand, have much more give and is better suited to dance style aerial exercise.

As you may expect, high-stretch fabrics provide an extra bounce for big drops. However, some experienced aerialists still opt for low-stretch fabric instead of high-stretch fabric, since it’s quite hard to grip and challenging to climb.

 

8. What is the ideal spacing for ceiling bolts?

How far you space your ceiling bolts during yoga swing installation comes down to your body size and personal preference.

The recommended spacing is 60 to 80 centimeters wide, which translates to approximately 24 to 32 inches.

Some aerialists will opt for a narrower seat while others will go for a wider seat.

If you are using a swivel, then you will just need one anchor point.

 

9. Can children use aerial swings?

Yes. Children can use aerial swings. However, it’s important to note that aerial yoga comes with injury risks.

For instance, the fabrics and swings pose a choking hazard. Also, children can fall off the swings and end up with broken limbs, bruises and other injuries.

So, aerial yoga is a fun activity for all age groups, children should only use the swings under close supervision. Also, make sure you purchase fabrics and swings that are specifically designed for children.

Furthermore, the equipped should always be securely locked away when it’s not in use.

 

10. Which is the best rigging carabiner?

There are two main types of rigging carabiners – screwgate and auto-lock. Each carabiner comes with its pros and cons.

For instance, screwgate carabiners tend to be safer to rig. Also, they are secure and sturdy, with fewer moving points, compared to auto-lock carabiners. Auto-locking carabiners, on the other hand, provide an easy means of assembling and disassembling.

So, if you plan to install your yoga swings permanently in one place, then the screwgate carabiners will be ideal. On the other hand, if you will be moving your swings frequently, then you should go for auto-locking carabiners.

 

We hope that we’ve answered some of the questions and concerns you may be having related to yoga swings and aerial yoga in general.

From here, you just need to buy the aerial yoga equipment and then find a professional installer to install them for you.

You can either choose to install them indoors or outdoors, based on space availability and personal preference.