Aerial yoga for all ages

By Md. Nuruzzaman

Windsorites have been introduced to an alternative fitness program that combines rock climbing, pilates and yoga.

This is the first time the Windsor Rock Gym and Breath Pilates and Fitness is offering hammock aerial classes for all ages from beginner to advanced levels. There are 25 participants in two classes. They include one male, one child and 23 adult females.

Aerial yoga is a new type of yoga that originates from New York and has become popular in several countries. It is a combination of traditional yoga, pilates and dance with the use of a vertical hammock.

“Aerial yoga itself a great exercise. It is a great form of yoga,” said Isabelle Kolodziej, an instructor from Breath. “It is a great way to build the strength.”

Kolodziej also said there are health benefits – it stretches the body and muscles and gives strength to all the joints. It is also beneficial for spinal decompression, body movement, facial tissue and upper and lower body stability.

Although it is an aerial activity, the gym ensures total safety for the participants.

“Aerial can be used for yoga, relaxing and stretching all the way up to a sporty conditioning,” said Kolodziej.

The aim of the classes is to make aerial yoga accessible to Windsorites.

“Anyone can do it and try it, start playing like a child,” said Lauren Fleming, another instructor from Breath.

Bounmy Inthavong, 28, has been taking classes at Breath for about a year.

“More people like it because it is something different than average yoga,” said Inthavong, a midwife in Windsor.

Carly Del, 25, has also been involved with the program since last year.

“It is really good to engage different muscles that we do not get work on daily basis… an alternative way to work out,” said Del.

Del also said the activities tone up most parts of the body.

The next class session will be held on Feb. 27. Classes cost $20 per session, $15 for members.