AERIAL YOGA TEACHER TRAINING
A GUIDE TO Everything You Need to Know
Are you thinking about becoming an aerial yoga instructor? Whether you're a yoga teacher looking to expand your skills, a fitness professional adding aerial yoga to your offerings or a passionate student ready to take the next step, aerial yoga teacher training is a transformational journey.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about aerial yoga teacher training, including:
✔ How to choose the right training program
✔ What to expect during training sessions
✔ The benefits of certification and career opportunities
✔ Common questions and concerns about becoming an aerial yoga teacher
By the end of this page, you’ll have a clear roadmap to help you decide if aerial yoga teacher training is right for you and how to get started.
What’s Inside This Guide?
This guide is your one-stop resource for understanding aerial yoga teacher training. Click below to jump to a specific section:
🔗 How to Choose and Aerial Yoga Teacher Training Program
🔗 What to Expect in an Aerial Yoga Teacher Training
🔗 Tips to Prepare for your Aerial Yoga Teacher Training
🔗 The Business of Teaching Aerial Yoga
🔗 FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
Whether you're looking for a certified program, wondering about the cost of training or concerned about your skill level, we’ve got you covered (and if you still have questions, please write us). Let’s dive in!
WHY TRAIN TO BECOME AN AERIAL YOGA TEACHER?
Aerial yoga isn’t just about fitness - it’s an art, a practice, and for many, a career. Training to become a teacher helps you:
✔ Deepen your practice by understanding alignment, safety and sequencing.
✔ Gain confidence in leading classes and guiding students safely.
✔ Open new career opportunities in studios, retreats and more.
✔ Join a growing global community of aerial yoga instructors.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT AERIAL YOGA TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM
Choosing the right aerial yoga teacher training can feel overwhelming, but focusing on key factors - accreditation, format, instructor experience and curriculum - will help you find the best fit.
Accreditation & Certification: Does It Matter?
While no universal certification exists for aerial yoga instructors, most studios require 30–50 hours of specialized training, often alongside a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT). Some programs, like YOGABLOOM’s, qualify for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education credits, adding credibility to your certification. Choosing a program that follows established safety and teaching guidelines ensures a solid foundation.
Online vs. In-Person Training
Aerial yoga is highly hands-on, making in-person training the best choice for learning rigging, safety and spotting techniques. While online options exist, look for (at least) hybrid programs that include in-person workshops or mentorship for practical experience.
Do You Need a 200-Hour YTT First?
Though not always required, having prior teaching experience or a movement background (yoga, Pilates, dance) can make learning aerial instruction easier. Many programs prefer students with a foundation in anatomy, sequencing and body awareness. YOGABLOOM, for example, requires a prior teaching certification for enrollment to the Aerial Yoga Teacher Training.
Choosing the Right Instructor
The quality of your training depends largely on the instructor. Whenever possible, take a class with them or schedule a call to understand their teaching style and expertise. Look for a trainer with experience in both aerial yoga and traditional movement disciplines, as well as strong communication and feedback skills.
Finding the Right Fit
Your ideal program should align with your goals, whether deepening your practice or becoming a professional instructor. Consider accreditation, curriculum, hands-on training and instructor experience, along with practical factors like location, schedule and cost. A strong training program will prepare you to lead safe, confident and inspiring aerial yoga classes. Explore YOGABLOOM’s Aerial Yoga Teacher Training to take the next step in your journey!
WHAT TO EXPECT IN AN AERIAL YOGA TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM
Enrolling in an aerial yoga teacher training is an exciting step toward deepening your practice and learning to teach safely and effectively. While each program is unique, a well-rounded training should cover essential topics beyond just learning aerial postures. Here is an overview of the additional topics a comprehensive training will cover:
✔ Hammock rigging & safety: Proper setup, equipment inspection and safety protocols.
✔ Anatomy & biomechanics: Understanding how aerial movement affects the body.
✔ Sequencing & class planning: Designing balanced, engaging and safe classes.
✔ Modifications & adjustments: Adapting poses for different skill levels and body types.
✔ Teaching methodology & cueing: Effective verbal, visual and hands-on instruction.
✔ Injury prevention & spotting: Keeping students safe in the hammock.
✔ Business & marketing: Strategies to build a successful aerial yoga teaching career.
At YOGABLOOM, our teacher training program is designed to provide a strong foundation while allowing room for creative growth. We divide our training into two modules, making it accessible to both new and experienced instructors. It can be completed as a 30 hour basics training or a more complete 50 hour training. Want to read more about our curriculum?
TIPS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR AERIAL YOGA TEACHER TRAINING
Embarking on an Aerial Yoga Teacher Training is an exciting and transformative experience. To make the most of it, preparation is key! Here are some essential tips to help you feel confident and ready:
Tip #1
Familiarize Yourself with Aerial Yoga Basics: Take aerial Yoga classes or explore online resources to get comfortable in the hammock.
Tip #2
Strengthen & Stretch your Body: Focus on core and upper-body strength while incorporating full body flexibility training for more fluid movement.
Tip #3
Develop your Yoga Practice: A strong mat-based practice enhances you ability to teach aerial yoga effectively.
Tip #4
Learn about Anatomy and Physiology: Learning about body mechanics, especially in the spine, shoulders and core is crucial for safe instruction.
Tip #5
Get comfortable being Inverted: Practice inversions on the mat and in the hammock to build confidence and ease upside down.
Tip #6
Invest in Proper Gear: Fitted clothing and a personal aerial hammock * can improve your training (and future teaching) experience.
Tip #7
Cultivate a Teaching Mindset: Observe experienced instructors and start defining you unique teaching style.
Tip #8
Prioritize Self-Care: Stay hydrated, eat well and rest to support your body through training.
Tip #9
Approach the Training with an Open Mind: Embrace challenges, stay curious and trust the learning process.
* A word of caution: Social media is full of impressive aerial yoga tricks and challenges, but your home hammock is not the place to experiment with risky moves. Always practice within your skill level and in a safe environment to prevent injury.
From physical preparation to mindset shifts, these tips will help you enter your Aerial Yoga Teacher Training with confidence. No matter where you are in your journey, you are ready for this next step. Explore our upcoming Aerial Yoga Teacher Training dates and apply today!
THE BUSINESS OF TEACHING AERIAL YOGA: HOW TO BUILD A THRIVING CAREER
Aerial yoga is more than just a workout - it’s an art, a practice, and for many, a profession. If you’re passionate about teaching aerial yoga, you might be wondering how to turn that passion into a sustainable and thriving career. Beyond mastering technique, a successful aerial yoga teacher must balance class preparation, business strategy and community engagement.
Daily Life of an Aerial Yoga Teacher
Class Preparation & Setup: Planning sequences becomes easier with experience. Keeping a journal or video library helps streamline the process. Setting up the studio involves adjusting hammocks, checking for fabric wear and preparing the space.
Teaching & Student Engagement: Classes require adaptability, clear cueing and an encouraging presence. After class, connecting with students and maintaining the studio strengthens community and retention.
What Makes a Great Aerial Yoga Teacher?
Effective instructors combine technical expertise with leadership and creativity. Key skills include:
✔ Body Awareness: Strong embodied knowledge of anatomy and alignment for safe instruction.
✔ Adaptability: Ability to modify poses and sequences to accommodate different skill levels.
✔ Clear Communication: Precise and confident cueing, especially for inversions and transitions.
✔ Patience & Empathy: A supportive and encouraging approach fosters confidence and trust.
✔ Creativity: Dynamic class design keeps students engaged and excited to return.
Aerial yoga teachers must take a front-and-center role, leading with confidence while fostering a supportive environment.
Building a Sustainable Career
Finding Your Niche: Define what makes your classes unique. Specializing in beginners, strength training or therapeutic aerial yoga helps define your brand and attract a loyal student base.
Studio Teaching vs. Entrepreneurship: Teaching at established studios builds experience and offers more stability, but running your own workshops, retreats and independent classes can provide more income and creative freedom.
Marketing & Growth: A strong social media presence, email newsletters and collaborations help attract students. Free content, like short tutorials, can establish credibility.
Diversifying Income Streams: Expanding beyond group classes can increase stability. Consider options like private lessons, workshops, teacher trainings, online offerings, and retreats. Teaching special populations, such as kids, can also open new opportunities.
Aerial yoga teaching is a rewarding career that blends movement, creativity and community. However, success requires more than teaching skills - it’s about smart business strategies, consistent branding and building lasting relationships with students. By balancing class preparation with business development, you can create a thriving and sustainable career in aerial yoga.
FAQS: YOUR TOP QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABOUT AERIAL YOGA TEACHER TRAININGS
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Many Aerial Yoga Teacher Trainings are suited for those already having a background in teaching a movement modality (Yoga, Pilates, Dance, etc). New teachers and experienced teachers will both benefit as they expand their skill set and teaching opportunities.
Aerial yoga teachers need a blend of technical knowledge, creativity and interpersonal skills to guide students safely and effectively through their practice.
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While you don’t need to be an expert in aerial yoga, a strong foundation in movement is essential. Having a solid Yoga, Pilates, dance or fitness background will help you transition more easily into the training.
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Not always, but it depends on the program. Some trainings require prior teaching experience, while others welcome students with strong movement backgrounds. At YOGABLOOM, a prior teaching certification is required for our 30- to 50-hour Aerial Yoga Teacher Training.
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Aerial Yoga Teacher Trainings vary depending on the school, but most programs require a minimum of 30 hours to cover the basics in addition to a prior 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification (or related movement modality teaching certificate). However, to gain a more in-depth understanding of this practice from a teacher’s perspective we recommend a minimum of 50 hours. Trainings may be held over a weekend, spread out across several weeks or offered in more intensive retreat-style format.
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Yes - when taught correctly, aerial yoga is a safe and supportive practice. A well-structured training program will prioritize safety by covering proper rigging, spotting techniques, and injury prevention to ensure students feel secure at all levels.
However, there are certain contraindications to consider. Aerial yoga may not be suitable for individuals with the following conditions:
Pregnancy
Epilepsy
Severe motion sensitivity (easy onset vertigo)
Glaucoma or ocular hypertension
Acute injuries
Cardiovascular disease
Very high or low blood pressure
Recent surgery or fresh scars
Severe arthritis or other joint issues
Osteoporosis
While these conditions do not necessarily rule out aerial yoga altogether, they do require special consideration. Those affected should consult with a qualified instructor to determine if modifications or private instruction may be a better fit than attending open-level aerial yoga classes.
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Aerial Yoga is not yet specifically recognized by the Yoga Alliance as a separate discipline. However, completing an Aerial Yoga Teacher Training should result in a Certificate of Completion from your training school, documenting your hours and qualifications. Here are some key points to note about certification:
Most studios that hire Aerial Yoga instructors will require at least 30 hours of aerial-specific training in addition to a broader teacher training, such as a 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training or similar movement certification.
Some Aerial Yoga Teacher Training programs, such at the YOGABLOOM training, will count as Continuing Education (CE) credits for registered yoga teachers through the Yoga Alliance, making it a valuable option for expanding expertise and credentials.
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Your certification will allow you to teach at studios, fitness centers or even open your own classes. Some programs also provide guidance on marketing, class structuring and business strategies to help you get started.
READY TO TAKE FLIGHT?!
Explore the practical and theoretic basics of teaching Aerial Yoga. During this 34-hour training module you will learn to use the Aerial Hammock (silk) as a tool for exploration, growth and support. Through workshops and experiential practice you will receive an easy-to-implement structure that can be adapted into your own class setting and teaching voice.
Spice-up your teaching with new Aerial challenges and up-leveled creativity. During this 16-hour training module you will explore more complex Aerial Yoga postures, useful transitions, effective sequencing, hammock height variations and a bit of acrobatics. Keep your students engaged and coming back to class with content that is captivating.
Immerse yourself in the transformative art of Yin Aerial Yoga, blending the principles of Yin Yoga with the innovative practice of Aerial Yoga. Using high & low hammock settings this training equips teachers to guide students through deeply restorative postures that soothe the nervous system, promoting holistic rejuvenation of the body, mind and spirit.