If you are reading this, we know you are concerned about the aerial yoga weight limit. You are not alone. This is one of the most frequently asked questions from beginners. Firstly, let’s remind you that aerial yoga promotes body positivity. It’s not just about feeling flexible and strong physically. Once you get on that swing, it’s only you connecting with your self-awareness.
There is a misconception of aerial yoga being suitable only for advanced practitioners, so let’s tackle this first. Aerial Yoga is yoga performed in a swing or silk to enhance flexibility and correct body postures for your poses, but for the most part, creates self-awareness.
Now hanging on a swing or hammock will have you concerned about your weight. “How much weight can aerial silk hold? And most importantly, will it hold me?”
Well, most aerial silks hold upto a maximum of 3000 pounds before breaking apart. Please, continue to read before you get any wrong indications, as each component of the swing is rated for different weights. You need to calculate the compound weight limit of the hammocks.
What is Aerial Yoga Weight Limit?
Usually, you will see the average aerial yoga weight limit for most yoga classes is 250 lbs (113 kg). But be open to digging deeper for your satisfaction. Ask your instructor about the components of your swing, and how much weight can aerial silks hold.
When you are on a swing, and you release your body weight, the force applied is usually multiplied by 5 times of your body weight on the actual hammock. This is due to the free falling through space.
Let us explain it further. If your body weight is 200lbs, multiply it by at least 10, (although we said 5, but 10 is known to be the standard safety multiplier). This means that the total weight on the swing would add up to 2000 pounds. Hopefully, now you know your numbers.
Your aerial swing must be appropriately set up with ceiling anchors that are much stronger than the weight it bears over and over again. It is a huge red flag if this is not clearly explained to you by your instructor.
Can Heavy People Use Yoga Swings?
So why is the figure of 250 lbs (133 kg) so significant for aerial yoga swings? Honestly, there is no particular reason. It is probably because a person exceeding this weight may face injuries if they are new to this.
Another logical explanation is how much weight each of the loops can hold. They usually hold up to 1000 (453 kg) to 2000 lbs (907 kg) on the ceiling. Therefore, choosing a capacity of 250 lbs (133 kg) allows the silk to hold the multiplied weight of your body.
Just to keep you informed, there are exceptions! Some swings can hold the weight of 2 people, supporting a total of 600lbs, like a YOGABODY Yoga Trapeze Swing. We highly advise you to do your research for your concerns.
Arthritis? Yoga to the rescue!
Yoga can do wonders for your people suffering from arthritis. A hammock is an excellent choice for decompressed joints and enabling stretched out movements. Having said that, any extra weight will create more pressure on the hammock, as well as your muscles and tissues. I guess, you won’t know unless you try it.
Please talk to experts to support medical concerns about joints and muscles, as you may feel increased pressure on tissue or bones.
Aerial Yoga Boosts Body Positivity
Yes, it does. But you have to be open to letting go, and worry less about the aerial yoga weight limit. Trust your instructor, and believe in the power of that swing. If they give you a thumbs up, focus only on yourself.
Your friend next to you might look more comfortable than you on the swing, doing all sorts of inversions. But remember to work on your own rhythms and movements. Make it your moment to release and break-through. Aerial yoga will introduce you to the new you. You will feel empowered physically and mentally, so it’s much more than boosting your body positivity.
Conclusion
Being comfortable on the swing as a newcomer has a lot to do with your self-awareness and less with your weight. These are just words that you are reading right now until you try them. So grab your confidence and sign up for that class.
If you are a DIY person, please make a call to your local structural engineer for a thumbs up. Ensuring your safety is mandatory if you are doing it privately at home.
Extra weight might indeed feel tough on muscles and tissue, but with the right kind of help and support, you will overcome it in no time. Don’t forget to breathe through your discomfort and fight your confusion.
