Introducing Aerial Therapeutics

As a movement educator, I have pioneered the innovative aerial hammock genre in Australia and New Zealand since 2010, with the privilege of training hundreds of facilitators in this unique modality. In my private practice, I guide both adults and children toward well-being through therapeutic movement and expressive creative therapies, placing a special focus on the sensory experience of aerial exercise. The suspended hammock serves as a powerful therapeutic tool, offering the sensation of being held, rocked, and supported in three-dimensional space—allowing clients to feel weightless and secure while exploring their movement potential.

Aerial exercise enhances joint range of motion through gentle decompression, providing relief for the spine and joints. It also offers clients the opportunity to experience supported inversions, which can improve respiratory function and help alleviate mental tension. As clients advance, gravity-resisted movements and dynamic spatial exercises build strength, coordination, and conditioning, supporting everything from rehabilitation to complex exercise.

In the tranquil rainforest setting of Tamborine Mountain, we offer small group sessions to the community and provide individual therapeutic sessions for both adults and children, inviting diverse populations to explore this sensory-rich practice in a calming, nature-immersed environment.
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What is an Aerial Hammock?

The aerial hammock is a silk apparatus suspended from two secure points on the ceiling at hip height, made from durable nylon fabric that can hold up to 500kg. It’s designed to mould to the body’s shape, creating a sensation of weightlessness and support, allowing for free and fluid movement. Aerial hammock exercise improves joint range of motion through gentle traction and decompression techniques. It also enables supported inversions, which aid visceral decompression, improve digestive and reproductive function, and enhance respiratory conditioning. Many people experience a sense of mental relief and decompression from this practice, making it beneficial for mental health and trauma recovery.

What to Expect in an Adult Course?

A 4-week aerial hammock course offers a structured progression, helping participants develop mastery in aerial techniques. The hammock can be used to blend different movement styles, incorporating elements of Pilates, strength conditioning, and flexibility work, depending on the course goals. Instructors guide participants through movements with visual and verbal demonstrations, creating a harmonious group experience. Each session concludes with relaxation on the floor or ‘cocooning’ in the hammock, where participants can enjoy gentle rocking, promoting deep rest and relaxation.

What is a Small Group Session?

Small group therapeutic sessions, limited to a maximum of 4 participants, provide personalised attention and may integrate various therapeutic movement modalities, including Pilates, aerial approaches, and more. These sessions are tailored for children, sibling groups, or families and are available by appointment. They are also suitable for Self-managed NDIS support, offering a highly adaptable form of care.

What is a One-on-One Session?

For those who require individualised care, one-on-one aerial hammock sessions are ideal for physical rehabilitation or mental health recovery. These personalised sessions may incorporate therapeutic movement approaches such as Pilates, aerial therapy, and creative arts therapy. As with small group sessions, these are available by appointment for children, sibling groups, and families, and are appropriate for Self-managed NDIS support.

What Happens in an Aerial Kids Class?

Children engage in healthy movement through aerial play and interactive games that promote self-esteem, trust, and empowerment. These sessions integrate Creative Arts Therapy, combining sound and art-making to enhance self-expression and creativity. Each class finishes with sensory meditations to help children develop emotional regulation and relaxation. Classes are grouped according to age to ensure developmental appropriateness.

How Does Aerial Hammock Exercise Compare to Traditional Movement Practices?

Aerial hammock exercise complements traditional movement practices by offering both gravity-assisted and gravity-defying experiences. Unlike floor-based exercises, aerial work is gentler on the joints, making it more accessible for those who find floor movements challenging. Many students experience improved alignment, balance, and control, with benefits that extend to other activities and sports.

Why Do I Have to Book Ahead?

Due to the use of the aerial apparatus and small group sizes, bookings are essential to secure your place. Cancellations require at least 6 hours’ notice.

What to Wear?

We recommend full-length leggings made from cotton or a cotton-blend fabric (to prevent slipping) and fitted, sleeved tops (loose tops may move during inversions). Grip socks are encouraged for added safety. Please avoid clothing with zippers or sequins, and remove jewellery, makeup, and fake tan before class, as these can damage the hammocks.

What to Bring?

Bring a towel and water bottle. Yoga mats are optional but recommended for added comfort during floor-based movements.

What are the Benefits?

  • Utilises gravity to assist with lengthening tight muscles
  • Relieves joint pressure and spinal compression
  • Reduces mental tension and stress
  • Supports parasympathetic function, improving healing and immune function
  • Enhances balance and bodily awareness (proprioception)
  • Strengthens the core and improves stability
  • Improves breathing function
  • Releases endorphins, boosting mood and well-being
  • Makes exercise more enjoyable, improving motivation
  • Adaptable for all ages and fitness levels

Aerial hammock exercise offers a wide range of benefits, making it an excellent option for those looking for an alternative way to achieve optimal health, particularly when traditional fitness methods exacerbate joint or chronic pain issues. It’s also ideal for elite athletic training, gymnastic cross-training, and developmental movement for children.

Please download and review our Health Care Fact Sheet, and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerns or contraindications for exercise.

Download Health Care Fact Sheet
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