Is Aerial Yoga Easier Than Regular Yoga?

Written By Taylor O'Dore

If you’ve ever looked at aerial yoga and thought, “That looks hard” you’re not alone.

As someone who has been practicing aerial yoga since 2019, teaching since 2021, and has guided thousands of beginners in Huntington Beach (plus students across nine countries through international aerial yoga retreats), I’m going to give you a clear, honest answer:

Yes, aerial yoga is easier than regular (mat) yoga, especially for beginners.

And not just easier… safer, more supportive, and more accessible, too.

Let me explain why.

Why People Ask This Question in the First Place

When someone asks, “Is aerial yoga easier than regular yoga?”
What they’re really asking is:

  • Will I fall over?

  • Will I be bad at this?

  • Is my body too stiff, heavy, old, or injured for yoga?

In other words: they’re scared and that’s completely normal.

Ironically, the thing people fear most about aerial yoga (the hammock) is exactly what makes it easier.

The Biggest Misconception About Aerial Yoga

The biggest misconception about aerial yoga is that it’s hard.

It’s not hard.
It’s easy because it supports you.

The hammock acts as the ultimate yoga prop, allowing you to:

  • Hold on when you feel unstable

  • Take weight out of your joints

  • Feel supported instead of exposed

  • Build strength without strain

This is why aerial yoga is so powerful for beginners.

Why Aerial Yoga Is Easier Than Mat Yoga

1. The Hammock Supports You

In mat yoga, you’re balancing entirely on your own body.

In aerial yoga, you can:

  • Hold the hammock with your hands

  • Lean into it for balance

  • Use it to assist stretches and poses

That support makes a huge difference especially if you’re new.

2. Aerial Yoga Is Amazing for Tight Bodies

Aerial yoga is especially helpful if you have:

  • Tight hips

  • Tight hamstrings

  • Tight lower back

  • Chronic back pain or static pain

The hammock gently decompresses the spine and allows your body to stretch without forcing anything.

Many students tell us aerial yoga feels better on their back, neck, and joints than anything they’ve tried before.

3. It’s Better for Weak Core & Upper Body Strength

You do not need to be strong to start aerial yoga.

In fact:

  • Aerial yoga builds core strength

  • It builds upper body strength

  • Beginners struggle less than they do in mat yoga

Because the hammock supports you, you get stronger safely without feeling defeated.

4. Balance Issues? Aerial Yoga Wins

If you:

  • Have balance issues

  • Feel clumsy

  • Are afraid of falling

Aerial yoga is far easier than mat yoga.

You’re anchored to the hammock, which means:

  • You’re less likely to fall over

  • You feel more confident trying new things

  • You can focus on movement instead of fear

Poses That Are Easier in Aerial Yoga

Many classic yoga poses are actually easier in the air, including:

  • Downward Dog

  • Sun Salutations

  • Warrior I, II, and III

  • Backbends

  • Inversions

Yes everyone goes upside down in their first aerial yoga class.

And almost everyone is shocked by how easy and good it feels.

Is Aerial Yoga “Cheating”?

No.

Aerial yoga is not cheating it’s being smarter and safer.

Using support:

  • Improves alignment

  • Reduces injury risk

  • Helps you find balance correctly

If your goal is longevity, strength, and feeling good in your body aerial yoga is a powerful place to start.

Is Aerial Yoga a Real Workout?

Absolutely.

Aerial yoga is excellent for stretching, mobility, and nervous system regulation.

If you want more intensity, we also offer Aerial Pilates, which builds serious strength while still being low-impact and joint-friendly.

Is Aerial Yoga Good for Overweight or Older Beginners?

Yes and this is one of the reasons so many people call our studio home.

Aerial yoga is incredibly accessible for:

  • Overweight women

  • Older students

  • Anyone who has felt excluded from traditional fitness spaces

And if you do want to advance?
We also offer tricks and advanced classes where you can fly, flip, and create beautiful photos and videos.

Why Beginners Should Start with Aerial Yoga

If you’ve never done yoga before, aerial yoga is the best place to start because:

  • It’s safer

  • You can hold on at all times

  • You’re less likely to lose balance

  • Our floors are not slippery (we don’t offer hot classes)

  • You’re surrounded by other beginners

At Open Aerial Yoga in Huntington Beach, we specialize in new students.
You will rarely be the only beginner in the room, if ever.

Is Aerial Yoga a Gateway to Mat Yoga?

Yes.

Many students start with aerial yoga, gain confidence and strength, and then feel empowered to try mat yoga later.

That’s the beauty of it.

Final Answer: Is Aerial Yoga Easier Than Regular Yoga?

Yes.

Aerial yoga is easier than regular yoga because you use the hammock to support your body, hold your balance, and move safely.

And sometimes, easier is exactly what helps people finally show up.

Your Sign to Try Aerial Yoga ✨

If you’re nervous, curious, or have always thought yoga “wasn’t for you” this is your sign.

Book your first aerial yoga class at
Open Aerial Yoga in Huntington Beach, Orange County, California.

You might surprise yourself.
Most people do.

Taylor O'Dore
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