AcroYoga Looks Intimidating! Would You Give It A Go?

While most yogis practice solo on their own mats, quietly taking downward dog or child's pose, those who try AcroYoga do backbends in mid-air while balancing on a partner’s legs. Sound a bit different? Well, it is. While at first glance it looks like a circus act, AcroYoga is now becoming recognized in the larger yoga scene as a legitimate practice.

AcroYoga blends traditional forms of yoga with acrobatics, dance, and healing arts. It's a “movement fusion practice“ dependent on using a partner to perform the poses and transition from one move to the next. Koya Webb (pictured), a holistic wellness and AcroYoga expert, believes that this form of exercise requires an incredible amount of focus and technique beyond traditional yoga, plus communication, trust, and belief in yourself and your partner. AcroYoga really focuses on using the body and discipline to teach yogic consciousness (finding balance, staying in the present moment). For that reason, it's made yogis, including Webb, true devotees.

Webb fell in love with AcroYoga after learning about it on Instagram. “I started doing it everyday because it’s fun. I love the unique backbends; they give me a sense of freedom,” says Webb. “The shoulder stands require the ultimate amount of trust, balance, and support, and I like that element.”

Lucky for me, I had the chance to watch Webb and her partner Chris Filkins perform some moves at the beach in Santa Monica. It was mesmerizing to watch. While other patrons stopped to take photos, Webb’s focus remained on her partner. She was calm, dignified, and elegant.

While the moves may look practically impossible for the average exerciser, those who practice it, swear that it’s doable for everyone. I’ll be honest, I’m still a little skeptical to try it myself. But I’ll say this: if doing AcroYoga could give me a body like Koya Webb’s? Well then, sign me up! What do you think? Up for the adventure?

Kit Rich is Los Angeles-based fitness trainer with endless exercise and nutritional know-how. Hollywood's hottest stars are addicted to Kit's unique, multi-disciplined approach that combines cardio, yoga, Pilates, and weight training. Kit's clients are immediately taken by her funny and honest approach to health and fitness. She treats her clients as she treats herself, "with a hard challenge, sensibility, sensitively, and a good laugh." Follow Kit on Twitter @kitrichfitness.