There was swinging, hanging, laughing and lots of sweating in this month's workout.
We, (Alicia and Angela), decided to try something totally different this time around and did a Take Flight Fitness class at Take Flight Yoga and Movement.
What's that, you ask? Well, it's part aerial work, part floor work, part yoga and all strength training.
Both of us had expressed interest in trying aerial silks (where you do acrobatics while hanging in the air from a fabric) at one time or another, so when we saw the photos on Take Flight Yoga and Movement's website, we were like "YAS!"
This is how we pictured ourselves on the silks, but, you know, over a padded floor:
The class is designed for people of all fitness levels who want to get in shape and have fun doing it. It uses special equipment — silks, hammocks, bands and balls — to build "functional fitness, core strength, balance and flexibility."
Emily Guindon, the class instructor, has been practicing aerial silks for seven years. She warned us that we'd be sore in weird places and now that we have finished the class, we're pretty sure she's right.
Some background
Angela is a fairly active 42-year-old mama. She hits the gym at least three times a week where she runs on the treadmill, lifts weights and takes classes. She has most recently fallen in love with yoga and Zumba and enjoys the post-workout zen she feels after a good sweat session.
Alicia is a somewhat active 22-year-old. She does her recommended 30-minute elliptical workouts three times a week. She loves workouts that will make her sweat a lot and butt workouts.
We started to feel it as soon as the class ended.
On the studio
Angela: The studio almost feels artsy. Maybe it's the silks hanging from the ceiling and the fact that it's right next to the Galactic Center and Solar Culture in those cool, old buildings. But it's awesome. I also felt liberated since there were no mirrors judging me.
It has a comfy atmosphere. The studio's blind dog, Coconut, and the laid back personality of Emily add to the homey feel. Just make sure you don't walk on the matted floors with your shoes on!
Alicia: It is so dang cozy. I could fall asleep on the matted floors. Oh, and the no-mirrors thing is so awesome. I didn't have to look at my uncoordinated self trying to hang from the silks. It's just a really pretty studio with colorful silks hanging from the ceiling. I loved everything about the studio.
We did the Take Flight Fitness class and it kicked our butt. And yes, we got to hang from these.
On the class
Angela: OMG! Let me just say that this class is SO much fun but also SUCH a challenge.
Emily is a great instructor who's been practicing aerial work for seven years. She's super laid-back and is good at making you feel comfortable but also challenged. Watching her pull herself up on the silks is amazing. She's so strong and graceful. I, however, wobbled, struggled and couldn't stop laughing at one point.
We got to hang upside down, stretch, hang and swing on the silk hammocks. The workout also included planks, push-ups, squats with bands, wall sits and ab work. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'm going to be sore in places I didn't know existed.
It's definitely a full-body workout. So don't plan on slacking at this one.
We look silly.
Alicia: Ugh. Angela said it best.
Although it was a more challenging workout, I loved how I felt after. I felt like I stretched and worked out parts of my body that I wouldn't normally in — let's say — yoga. 💪 💪 💪
I was definitely feeling myself when I was hanging from the silks.
Would you go again?
Angela: Absolutely! My glutes and quads are burning, which tells me I worked hard. But I also had fun, which is super important to me when finding workout classes. Also, I REALLY want to be able to climb up the silks without looking like I might die.
Alicia: Heck yes! I'm so glad we get the second class free because I get to go again soon. I'm already planning the next class.
It wasn't long after the class that I started to feel sore everywhere. My body hurts so bad, but that's a good thing, right? It's such an awesome class. I got to learn something new, get a good workout in and make a fool of myself.
10/10 would recommend.
Take Flight Yoga and Movement offers classes like aerial yoga, aerial silks basics, and other advanced classes. It's located at 35 E. Toole Ave., next to Galactic Center.
Class details
What: Take Flight Fitness
When: Monday at 5:15 p.m. and Wednesday at 10 a.m.
Where: Take Flight Yoga and Movement, 35 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $15 cash or $16 card per class. Your second class is free.
