Exploring the Benefits of Aerial Pilates: A Unique Pilates Workout
Have you heard of aerial Pilates? Levitate Wellness Studio in Greece is at the forefront of this innovative workout style, blending the core-strengthening benefits of Pilates with the grace and freedom of aerial arts. We spoke with Katerina Chatzaki, the founder of Levitate Wellness Studio, about what sets aerial Pilates apart and how it’s making waves in the fitness community.
The Inspiration Behind Aerial Pilates
Katerina was inspired to create Aerial Pilates after combining her expertise in Pilates with her passion for aerial arts. “I wanted to create a class that combines my knowledge of Pilates with my background in aerial arts,” says Katerina. “This fusion allows us to harness the core-strengthening and flexibility-building aspects of traditional Pilates while adding the grace and freedom of aerial movement.”
How Aerial Pilates Differs from Traditional Pilates
Aerial Pilates offers a variety of benefits that traditional Pilates may not. Unlike the typical mat or reformer Pilates workout, Aerial Pilates incorporates a suspended hammock, allowing for greater freedom of movement and a broader range of motion. According to Katerina,
“Aerial Pilates challenges you in ways that traditional Pilates cannot. The suspension provides deeper stretches and helps improve circulation, while inversions stimulate lymphatic drainage and create length in compressed areas of the body.”
While Aerial Pilates shares the mindfulness, breath work, and controlled movements of traditional Pilates, it adds an element of fun and creativity, making the experience feel fresh and unique. “It’s not just a workout but also an enjoyable experience that leaves practitioners feeling both relaxed and invigorated,” Katerina adds.
Common Misconceptions About Aerial Pilates
As with any new fitness trend, there are some misconceptions surrounding aerial Pilates. “Some clients think that aerial Pilates isn’t suitable for beginners or requires a high level of fitness or flexibility,” Katerina explains. “Others may fear falling or getting injured due to the suspension, or confuse aerial Pilates with acrobatic disciplines like aerial yoga or circus arts.”
To address these concerns, Katerina reassures clients that Aerial Pilates is adaptable to all fitness levels. “Aerial Pilates is rooted in Pilates principles, with a structure based on the BASI Pilates block system,” she says. “It focuses on controlled, mindful movements and alignment, and I ensure that safety is a priority in every class.”
The Ideal Client for Aerial Pilates
Clients drawn to Aerial Pilates typically have a diverse range of goals and backgrounds. “Fitness enthusiasts often come looking for something more diverse and fun, while Pilates practitioners are drawn to explore new equipment and deepen their practice,” Katerina notes. “Aerial movement fans who aren’t interested in acrobatics but still want to experience the aerial aspect of Pilates also enjoy this unique workout.”
Safety Measures and Training in Aerial Pilates
Safety is a primary concern when it comes to aerial Pilates, and Katerina ensures that every aspect of the class adheres to high standards of care. “I have completed certified courses in both Aerial Arts and Pilates, covering anatomy, equipment installation, and class structure,” she explains. “I also regularly update my skills by attending workshops and specialized courses.”
To further ensure safety, all hammocks are professionally installed and regularly inspected. “Clients always use safety mats, and I set the hammocks at appropriate heights based on the participants’ comfort level,” says Katerina. “I also perform a screening for medical conditions that may require adjustments.”
The Unique Experience at Levitate Wellness Studio
At Levitate Wellness Studio, Katerina offers personalised attention and small group classes to ensure every participant gets the most out of their practice. “Positivity, respect, and kindness are important to me,” she shares. “I focus on helping my clients connect better to themselves and their bodies.” “Aerial Pilates is taught in small groups or privately to ensure participants get personalised attention, individual corrections, and feedback to reach their full potential,” she explains.
The Growing Popularity of Aerial Pilates
Aerial Pilates is gaining momentum in Katerina’s studio. “I’ve noticed a rising popularity in Pilates in general, with a shift from more circus-based aerial classes to those focusing on core stability, controlled movement, and alignment,” she says. “This trend aligns with the growing interest in Aerial Pilates, which offers therapeutic benefits alongside its creative, fun aspects.”
Advice for Pilates Instructors and Studio Owners
For other instructors and studio owners considering adding aerial Pilates to their offerings, Katerina offers some advice: “I would encourage colleagues to add Aerial Pilates to their offerings, as it’s a fantastic way to diversify your services, attract new clients, and expand your business. Thoughtfully planning and implementing Aerial Pilates can create a unique, safe, fun, and enriching experience for your clients and help enhance your studio’s reputation.”
Katerina Chatzaki a former professional dancer trained with the Royal Academy of Dance (ARAD), is a certified Aerial Yoga and BASI Pilates instructor with 15 years of teaching experience. As the founder of Levitate Wellness Studio in Heraklion, Crete, she specializes in BASI Pilates, Barre, and Aerial Yoga, focusing on injury rehabilitation, senior fitness, and pre/postnatal recovery, while continuously learning and inspiring others through movement.