Lee Guilbeau, a teacher of acrobatic yoga-inspired classes, said the practice is an accessible way for students to partner up and explore flexibility, balance and strength. He said the movements are similar to traditional yoga, but this style is more of a mental game.
“These are not movements you can do without thinking,” he added.
The practice is a mutual experience between partners, he said. The focal point of the exercise is communication between the base, the person who supports the movement on the ground, and the flyer, the person who is elevated above it.
“It goes beyond verbal communication,” Guilbeau said. “Almost intuitive. It’s a lot more about cultivating a language of what you and your partner need.”
The poses range in difficulty, and an example of a basic acrobatic yoga pose would consist of the base supporting the flyer on his or her feet while the flyer balances in a plank position, like Superman.
Guilbeau said most people are drawn to acrobatic yoga for its fun, creative movement and the social element.
For Joyner, who said acrobatic yoga is like playtime for her, this is true.
“I’ve always been serious about self practice, but acrobatic yoga can be more energetic and fun,” she said. “Regular yoga can be more of a workout, just depends, but acro always adds a positive energy.”
Guilbeau said everyone joins at different levels, and there is room for people to progress from beginner to advanced. Each person is unique, and the main determinant is body awareness, he added.
Joyner said she understands the hesitance to try something new, because it’s something she felt in the beginning. After practicing for six months, she said she couldn’t see her life without acrobatic yoga.
“Everyone is vulnerable, but it’s important to open up yourself to different things,” she said. “I started off being terrified of being upside down, but I’ve turned into a monkey and love it. It’s brought me back to my child- like instincts.”
“All you need is a partner,” Guilbeau said.
For those who wish to get involved, class information stays up to date on the Facebook group Inside Out and Upside Down. Information about acrobatic yoga and where you can find others who practice this style can be found there as well.
