Swinging in L.A., the antigravity way

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The word ‘antigravity’ is usually followed by ‘machine’ or ‘death ray,’ not ‘yoga.’ But Crunch, the Los Angeles gym that showed us that exercising on a stripper pole is a good thing, has a new class titled ‘AntiGravity Yoga’ that Sir Isaac surely would have loved.

The class combines yoga, Pilates, some aerial work, stretching, strength training and core exercises, but the main attraction is that students move while hanging in white fabric hammocks suspended from the ceiling. That makes it not only fun but good for you, says fitness instructor Saharah Ali.

‘The class allows you to have fun and see that exercise isn’t a pain or a chore,’ says Ali. ‘In the beginning, some people say, ‘I don’t know,’ but as soon as they start to swing or do their first flip, they’re hooked.’

Traditional yoga moves, such as headstands and handstands, take on another dimension when done while suspended from the ceiling. ‘It’s more supportive to the spine,’ says Ali, and might be easier for those who find it difficult getting into and maintaining those positions.

A few caveats: Ali says the class isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with glaucoma. Or anyone who’s had recent Botox treatments. We’re not going to even touch that.

The workout was originally developed by Christopher Harrison of AntiGravity, a New York City-based aerial performance group that inspired the class. Harrison worked with Jess Gronholm, Crunch’s yoga director out of NYC, to create the class.

The best thing about AntiGravity Yoga is that it’s free at Crunch—for one day, at least. On July 12, three 45-minute sessions starting at 1 p.m. will be open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis (sign-up sheets will be available the day of the classes). Just make sure to book your Botox appointment afterward.

-- Jeannine Stein