How to Rig Yoga Hammocks

How to Rig Yoga Hammocks

Written by: Firetoys Staff

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Published on

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Time to read 3 min

Yoga Hammock Rigging Guide 

Welcome to our series on aerial rigging, featuring instructional videos from Circus Rigging & Safety and sponsored by Firetoys. In this article, we’ll look at the different ways you can rig a yoga hammock and help you choose the method that’s right for you.

Our standard yoga hammocks are 2.8m wide and 6m long.


Before you start: The information in this guide assumes you already have a suitable and safely installed anchor point. If you’re unsure whether your rigging point is safe to use, please read our guide Installing Aerial Equipment at Home before continuing.


First, let’s answer one of the most common questions we get:

Are aerial hammocks and yoga hammocks the same thing?

The terms aerial hammock and yoga hammock are sometimes used interchangeably, which can be confusing if you’re just getting started. While the equipment and materials can be very similar, the main difference is how the hammock is used.

Aerial hammock is a performance-based discipline, similar to aerial silks or hoop. It typically involves more dynamic movement, including spins, drops, wraps, and transitions.

Aerial yoga, or yoga hammock practice, is generally more focused on traditional yoga movements, stretching, balance, and relaxation. It tends to be more controlled and static, with the hammock often positioned closer to the ground.

Our hammocks are suitable for both aerial and yoga-based practices, so you can follow this guide whichever style you prefer.

Single point vs Double point

Single point
Double point

Single Point: Both sides of the hammock connect to one point at the top, giving the hammock a teardrop shape, ideal for cocoons and spinning. 

Double Point: Both sides connect to separate points, giving more space inside the hammock and a more stable feel, ideal for beginners.

Attachment methods

O-Rings

O-rings are the standard option with our hammocks. This option is great if you are not going to be adjusting the height too often and just want something simple to put up and practice on. This is also the best option for dynamic sling/loop/performance hammock.


Working Load Limit on O Rings - 172kg/377lb


O-rings are included with our hammocks. 


To adjust the height with o-rings, retie them further away from the tail, following the instructions below.

Prodigy Aerial Sewn Loop Slings

If you need to make adjustments to the height of your hammock but are looking for a more affordable method than using the Prodigy Loop Adjusters then this method is for you.


Please note this method is best for static/yoga hammock rather than dynamic movement.


Working Load Limit on Prodigy 60cm/18mm slings + stopper knot - 172kg/377lbs


To tie on the loop slings, use a prusik knot, as demonstrated in the video below. 

Equipment checklist

How to attach your hammock.

Double Point: Clip a carabiner to your o-rings or loop slings.


Single point: Add a swivel and quick link or small rigging plate to your set up.


FAQ

Can I hang a hammock from my ceiling?

We will always recommend you speak to a professional rigger or structural engineer prior to attempting any installation. They will be able to assess if the ceiling is strong enough to rig from and guide you on how best to do this.

If you would like to know more about home installation, see our blog on Installing Aerial Equipment at Home

How far apart should the two hammock points be?

The two points should be roughly shoulder width. Typically around 50cm.

How high should my hammock be?

We recommend beginners start with the bottom of the hammock around chest to waist height. This will also depend on how stretchy your hammock is and how much space you have available. 


More experienced aerialists may want to rig between chest and chin height. 

Whats the difference between an aerial hammock and yoga hammock?

Our hammocks are suitable for both aerial use, which is typically more dynamic and can include drops, as well as more more static, low to ground work, typically found in aerial yoga.