New Yoga: Fitness Suspended by Ropes
In recent years, yoga—a gentle, calming form of exercise—has become increasingly popular among urban white-collar workers, serving as an important way to shape the body and relieve stress. Yoga’s movements and forms have also become richer. Besides meditation, aerobic yoga, and hot yoga, recently journalists discovered a new type of yoga—“Rope Yoga”—in Tianhe District.
Coach Zhu, who promotes this yoga style, says rope yoga is a fresh term abroad but not actually new. Its English name is “Iyengar,” first developed in India in 1918. Dr. B.K.S. Iyengar, its founder, aimed for inner-outer balance of the body and mental clarity. Coach Zhu explains that “rope yoga” emphasizes the concept of “hanging”—hanging hands, feet, waist… Essentially, anyone confident in their strength can skillfully suspend different parts of their body. “Though it looks dramatic and difficult, rope yoga is actually ideal for those with poor fitness. Even those with no prior yoga experience can practice it. Beginners typically maintain traditional yoga poses for only 30 seconds to one minute, but with rope assistance, they can sustain poses for up to five minutes, greatly enhancing fitness benefits.”
As the name suggests, ropes are essential tools in rope yoga. Coach Zhu states that the ropes used are high-strength climbing ropes capable of bearing over 200 kilograms, ensuring safety. To prevent discomfort where the body contacts the rope, two thick, soft rubber sponge tubes are wrapped around the rope.
Besides ropes, bricks and chairs are also auxiliary tools in rope yoga. Bricks serve as supports for head, waist, or foot positions. “For example, during forward bends, you can hold bricks in your hands or rest your head on them, helping beginners achieve correct form more easily.” Chairs assist in foot and waist movements.
Rope yoga poses are similar to traditional ones. Each class lasts one hour. Coach Zhu notes that beginners usually master 5–6 poses adequately. Since some advanced poses involve suspending the entire body via ropes, professional instructors must guide and assist. “One instructor can supervise at most nine students simultaneously. Never attempt this alone—risk of injury is high.” Coach Zhu concludes, “Although rope yoga offers many benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. People with heart disease, hypertension, epilepsy, or pregnant women should avoid it. Those recovering from surgery should consult a doctor before starting. Women should also avoid certain inversions during menstruation.”