Alternative Forms of Exercise

Aerial workouts — performing poses, inversions and other movements suspended off the ground with the help of a hammock — are quickly gaining a following in the fitness world. Gwyneth Paltrow is a known fan and now Lena Dunham has posted pictures of herself balancing mid-air on Instagram. These workouts combine yoga poses, choreography, flexibility and strength. And while they may look like something out of Cirque du Soleil, they can be surprisingly easy to do! For those with back and neck pain, many yoga poses and inversions just aren’t an option. But when you’re suspended in the air, performing these positions and holds puts less pressure on the spine or neck. Talk to your doctor before beginning any new workout routine.