AntiGravity Yoga `helps improve blood flow and reduce back problems`

London - Hanging upside down and moving acrobatically, often in mid-air, with legs wrapped around hammocks made from parachute silk, is the coolest new fitness trend to emerge from the States.

AntiGravity Yoga is the brainchild of American choreographer Christopher Harrison, co-founder of Cirque du Soleil.

“The hammock is so supportive that almost anyone can try more difficult poses, such as turning upside down, without risk,” the Daily Mail quoted Gillian Reeves, National Group Exercise Manager at Virgin Active, which is in the process of launching the class nationwide, as saying.

“Doing this means that muscles are worked in unfamiliar ways so that they become more evenly toned.

“So many of us slouch in front of computers all day. The inversion sequences – where you hang upside down – relieve compression from the spine and straighten it out. It may help alleviate back problems,” she said.

It is also claimed that by improving blood flow to the thyroid and pituitary glands, hormone function may be boosted.

Pink incorporated AntiGravity into one of her sets, Britney Spears and Mariah Carey are apparently fans, and sexy young things about town, such as the stars of ‘Made In Chelsea,’ also enjoy classes.

Virgin Active is emphatic that it’s necessary to take medical advice if you have any conditions or have undergone recent surgery before taking part.