Today we want to tell you about aerostretching, which is relatively new, but already gaining popularity among classes for improving the body and strengthening the soul.
Perhaps you have already noticed photos and videos on social networks of people you know (or don’t know) doing some kind of exercise in the air on “sheets”. And we wondered: how is this a new phenomenon? Most likely, this is either aerial yoga or its variation – aerostretching.
Translated into Russian, Stretch means “to stretch, stretch”, and aero means “air”. These are. Aerostretching is a set of stretching exercises in the air. Training is carried out on canvases hung in the form of a hammock. Thanks to zero-weight exercises, the load on the spine is removed, such exercises also relieve tension and develop coordination.
The technique was invented in 2007 by gymnast Christopher Harrison. It combined elements of yoga, Pilates, gymnastics and aerial acrobatics. First it was aerial yoga. Then it developed, and other directions appeared on its basis, including aerostretching.
The editors of Yakutia spoke with trainer Anastasia Vinokurova about when they started practicing “aerial stretching” in Yakutia, what are the differences, who will benefit from such exercises and who has contraindications.
It is gaining momentum
– I have been doing aerostretching for almost five years. A new and unusual direction attracted me. And after a month of classes, I realized that I am in love with this sport, I wanted to connect my life with it, introduce people to this direction.
Aerostretching appeared in Yakutsk more than five years ago. There are already many studios in the city.
Unlike air yoga, stretching in the air is a more dynamic direction without much emphasis on breathing. Focuses mainly on stretching. The coach says that both disciplines differ from aerial gymnastics (pole sports) in that they take place on elastic bands or hammocks.
Let me explain. Air fabrics are used in gymnastics classes, and silk hammocks are used in air yoga and aerostretching classes. Linens and hammocks differ from each other in terms of the type and density of the fabric they are made of, the way they are fastened, and their length.
Yes, we agree, it does not sound very convincing, and it seems that they are almost the same thing. Then this is the main difference for you – you have to ask: who are the exercises for? In aerial yoga and aerial stretching, the focus is on who is doing it: how he stretches the spine, relaxes the muscles, breathes, etc. He does it for himself to improve his health.
In aerial art, the main person is the audience. A gymnast does tricks for an observer. This is a sport. And it will be very difficult for an unprepared person to cope with the burden.
Who benefits and who does not?
But can a person who is 35+ or even 40+ years old and has nothing to do with sports perform aerostretching movements – we asked.
“Of course, a competent trainer will choose the load for you and it will gradually increase as the lessons progress,” said Anastasia. – Exercises are contraindicated for people with spine, head and joint injuries, acute inflammatory processes and certain diseases of the organs of vision, cardiovascular system and heart.
– What about hypertensive people with high blood pressure? Would it be harmful to hang them upside down? What about expectant mothers?
“If you feel uncomfortable, you can always choose other poses, hanging upside down is optional and the classes don’t focus on it,” our interlocutor explains. – There are special, very pleasant and useful exercises in hammocks for pregnant women.
We would like to add from the editors. There are different levels of software complexity – from easy to professional. And aerostretching is suitable for most people, and pregnancy is not a direct contraindication. But you still need to see a doctor. If you have not done it before, it is better to postpone the first exercise after childbirth until you have fully recovered. Then the exercises will benefit your figure and tone.
There are also separate programs for children. The elements in them are light and accessible. As a rule, young students show a great, genuine interest in air training. There are no special contraindications for children other than adults. But still, a consultation with a pediatrician will not be superfluous. By the way, the exercises will be very useful for teenagers (and not only them) who want to correct their posture.
Muscles and joints work
– Depending on the subject of the lesson, all muscle groups are involved. Training is aimed at strengthening muscles and tendons, increasing their flexibility, developing endurance and physical strength. Exercises have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the joints without overloading them.
Anastasia says that with a systematic approach and proper implementation, you can not only improve flexibility and get rid of excess weight, but also form beautiful body contours, prevent the development of diseases of the musculoskeletal system and improve health. – Doing exercises incorrectly can be harmful. The main thing is to listen to the coach and ask questions when it is not clear.
A pleasant effect will appear after the first lesson. Of course, it doesn’t last long. The main thing is regularity in training. The results will be visible after a month.
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Finally, we asked our interlocutor one more question: how many Yakutians are interested in aerostretching now?
“This trend is gaining popularity at a surprising rate,” replied the trainer.
We hope you learned something new and useful. And we will continue to monitor new products in various areas of health and inform you about them.