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Acroyoga, a fusion of acrobatics, yoga, and Thai massage, is often surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions. These clichés can discourage some from trying it or lead to misunderstandings about this fascinating practice. In this article, we will separate fact from fiction and clarify these preconceptions.
1. Acroyoga is reserved for athletes and people who are flexible, light, and muscular | FALSE
Acroyoga is accessible to EVERYONE, regardless of flexibility or strength. The key to success lies in mastering the technique and adapting to your partner’s body. While physical characteristics may seem significant, they are less important than the ability to adjust your balance and control your body. With patience and regular practice, anyone can progress and find their rhythm in acroyoga. Although there may be classic poses that are difficult for certain pairs or body types, such cases are rare, and adjustments are often possible.
2. You need to be in a couple to practice acroyoga | FALSE
Acroyoga is practiced in pairs, trios, or larger groups, regardless of the nature of the relationship between the partners. Although it is a close-contact sport, it is not a romantic practice but rather one of acrobatics and personal challenge. As such, it can be practiced with friends, sports colleagues, family members, or in a couple. The poses can be adjusted to suit the needs of the partners, and very few are specifically practiced in a romantic context.
Prior yoga experience is not required to start acroyoga. Balancing on the ground is quite different from balancing with a partner, requiring specific learning to master the techniques of this discipline. Beginners can therefore learn the basics directly in class. However, those who have a good understanding of their body in space generally progress more quickly.
4. With the right techniques and precautions, acroyoga is a safe practice | TRUE
Acroyoga can be practiced safely by following the appropriate techniques and precautions. One essential aspect is the use of Spotters: individuals who help, advise, and support the duo during practice. These Spotters can be other couples or friends with whom you train, providing valuable mutual support. It is also crucial to learn how to be a good Spotter, which will not only allow you to assist other duos but also to join more advanced groups that will benefit from your support, helping you progress more quickly with them.
Additionally, it is crucial to know how to safely exit or fall from a position before attempting figures alone, without a Spotter, which reduces the risk of injury. By combining these safety practices with proper training and reliable partners, you can approach acroyoga with confidence.
5. Acroyoga is only for people who want to perform acrobatic figures | FALSE
Acroyoga is not limited to dynamic acrobatic figures. It also includes gentle and relaxing postures and Flows. In fact, the roots of acroyoga are deeply connected to ancient yoga traditions, with Krishnamacharya, a pioneer of Hatha yoga, incorporating elements of acroyoga, such as backbends, into his practice as early as 1938. Today, acroyoga can be broadly divided into two approaches: solar and lunar.
Solar acroyoga : Solar acroyoga is the type most commonly found in classes, workshops, or on social media. It focuses on dynamic and acrobatic postures.
Lunar acroyoga : Lunar acroyoga is focused on relaxation, offering soothing support postures that emphasize breathing.
Acroyogis can choose to focus on one style or combine both. It is common to start with the Solar style and transition to the Lunar style at the end of the practice, promoting relaxation and gratitude towards one’s partner.
6. Being a woman means I can’t be a Base, or being a man means I can’t be a Flyer | FALSE
In acroyoga, the roles of Base and Flyer are not determined by gender but are primarily based on technique, balance, and consistency. It is actually recommended to learn both roles to better understand each other’s challenges. However, at a certain level of practice or for specific workshops, it may be necessary to choose one role to progress more quickly in that particular area.
Of course, a woman can certainly be a solid Base, just as a man can be an agile Flyer. The roles are interchangeable and depend more on the dynamics of the duo and personal preferences than on physical criteria or gender.
Have a look at the following inspiring Instagram accounts: @dasha_kalinikina, an exceptionally skilled Base, @airsupacroyoga, two women teaching and practicing together and @betsinlao, a very talented Flyer. There are many good examples out there.
7. I cannot progress in acroyoga if there are no classes near me or if I don't have the resources | FALSE
If you’re looking for a community or someone as motivated as you to start, visit www.acropedia.org/communities , find the nearest community, and contact them on Facebook to join a class, a jam (free practice), and meet other acroyogis.
If there is no nearby community, find a partner and become a local reference in your area. Today, it is entirely possible to progress in acroyoga thanks to the numerous online resources available. Our beginner's guide to acroyoga offers a comprehensive approach to mastering the basics and advancing your practice economically, step by step. This will allow you to develop your skills and prepare effectively before participating in jams, classes, or workshops.
Now that you know the truth behind these myths, you can approach this discipline with a clearer and more open perspective. So, are you ready to try it ?
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