#FitBrideAlert: Aerial Yoga, What's The Fuss About It?

With your big day looming in like a NASA Rocket waiting to set off into space, we know you're facing the body jitters. Those last-minute dinners with the in-laws added up and those "bride-to-be" parties thrown by BFFs had everything cheese and alcohol. So now, you gotta make this right. Well, there is your trusty cardio and your no-stress yoga routes to take, but this time, try something new. Who knows you might just love it. Enter, Aerial Yoga - nopes, not just yoga - it's yoga in the air, feet up and head upside down. Before you get intimidated, let us tell you about this newest trend to hit fitness centres and why it is perfect for your big day.

Pic courtesy: Kiss The Bride Photography

What exactly is Aerial Yoga? It's normal yoga but with a twist. It's more intense and more difficult but also, extremely effective and makes you feel invincible. Here's how you go about it. You sit on a soft fabric hammock made out of high-density nylon material which can actually effectively support around a 100 kgs, so don't be afraid, you're in safe hands. The hammocks are supported by carabineers, support chains and webbing straps - so it's good and strong. Better yet, you can also adjust the height according to your comfort level, so you can balance well. As far as yoga is concerned, you'll do just traditional yoga poses or asanas that are improvised for air. Whatever it is, you'll have both your hands on the hammock for balance so nothing to worry! Hanging upside down is mandatory while simple stretching is easy. Just basic stuff, really! What makes Aerial Yoga powerful? It has the same benefits as normal yoga but comes with better flexibility since you have to move by yourself by balancing yourself on the hammock. That means a better stretch, good balance and more intense yoga. It also increase your focus and your concentration - it's not easy being anti-gravity so you are obviously challenged. It makes you more aware and focussed! Your body muscles are strengthened because gravity is working harder on your body. It offers less stress - so much needed for a bride-to-be. And the fact that it is yoga in air, it can make you feel invincible and more confident. Is there any risk here, really? Yes, like all fitness regimes, this one comes with it's own manual. First, be open to the way this fitness trend works. Don't be rigid and scared or you'll get hurt before you even begin. Get into a class that is certified with an experienced trainer - he'll know how to get you motivated. You are only to go suspended for around 3 feet so no risk of injury. Brides with cardiovascular problems, vertigo, high-low blood pressure and flu/cold cannot go through with this. Tips that can help me get into that class and come out better? Well, simple stuff. Remember to wear fitness clothes not loose yoga clothes. You'll end up being tangled in that hammock and trip. Don't eat heavy breakfasts and drink too much chai/coffee and other soda-type stuff because you are upside down and nausea will hit you like a big block of bricks. Take your yoga mat with you for feet support when you land. Add a friend to the workout and you'll feel less uncomfortable about doing it alone. Drink lots of water and eat light meals to stay energetic. Don't use lotions on hand and body, you'll slip. Apart from these, be open to it and enjoy this work. When done right, it can be very very fulfilling. Where do I get these classes?

• Fitnesolution is one avenue in Delhi
• Aditi Deshpande in Mumbai takes Aerial Yoga in Mumbai

Have a fitness trend you think we should try? Let us know!

READ: Tried & Tested: Fitness Apps For The Bride On-The-Go READ: 5 Real Brides Tell us Their Fitness Secrets