Installing a yoga swing is not just about finding a convenient spot to hang it. The swing must be installed at the right place, but also in the right manner. Obviously, this has a lot to do with your personal safety, but the importance of proper installation goes way beyond that. It has to do with the life of your swing and the mounting hardware, and preventing wear and tear that could compromise the swing’s integrity over time. There is a lot to unpack, so let’s dive into the step-by-step process of installing your yoga swing, and why it must be done in this manner.
STEP 1: CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCATION
Your first task when installing a yoga swing is to choose the right location to install it in. Some yoga swings, like the Zelus Purple Yoga Hammock set, are designed such that they can be simply hung over an exposed beam, any gym equipment, or from a tree branch or swing set if you want to adopt a more flexible approach
However, if you plan to install your setup indoors and establish a permanent yoga area, not just any location will do. The ideal indoor spot must be spacious enough, and the ceiling must be sufficiently high for the swing to hang freely. Also, check the surrounding area and make sure it is free from obstacles that could interfere with your practice. Here are some guidelines:
GUIDELINES FOR CHOOSING YOUR ROOM
Room Size
First, the room must be large enough to accommodate your yoga swing. Yoga swings have to be solid and sturdy, so some models, especially the modern ones, are bigger than you would expect. The Zelus Blue Hammock Set is made of durable polyester taffeta and comes at about 98" x 59".
Whatever the size of your swing, you’ll need a minimum of 6 feet (about 2 meters) of clearance in all directions around the swing to allow for full movement.
Ceiling Height
It is highly recommended that the room should be at least 8 feet (2.4 meters) high. Again, modern yoga swings tend to be higher in order to accommodate a variety of poses.
Remember, you are not basic your calculations based on the height of the swing alone. You need to factor in your own height, and the fact that you will need to perform a variety of poses. Higher ceilings offer more flexibility, especially for advanced moves that require more space.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Make sure the area is free from potential obstacles such as ceiling fans, light fixtures, or furniture. These could get in your way.
Ideally, the floor beneath the swing should be padded or covered with a yoga mat. Hopefully, you don’t have any, but in case of failed landings, the floor has to cushion your fall. It doesn’t hurt to be cautious.
STEP 2: SELECT THE APPROPRIATE MOUNTING HARDWARE
This step is about ensuring that your yoga swing is securely attached to a supporting structure that is solid, firm and reliable. Choosing the right mounting hardware is crucial.
CEILING JOIST OR BEAM
Locate a joist or Beam: Your swing cannot be mounted to just any part of the ceiling. Only the joist is strong and sturdy enough to support the weight of a human. You cannot attach a yoga swing directly to drywall or plaster.
So, grab a stud finder and keep probing until you find the joist or beam. You can first attempt to drill a small pilot hole. If the drill goes in easily and you don’t feel resistance, you may have missed the joist. If it feels firm, you’ve likely hit the joist.
MOUNTING KIT
Many yoga swings come with a mounting kit that includes screws, hooks, and other necessary hardware that is used for mounting. Even if your swing didn’t come with one, or if you prefer to purchase your own, this equipment can be easy to find. Look for a heavy-duty ceiling mount designed for hammocks, aerial silks, or yoga swings.
Weight Capacity
Ensure that the mounting hardware you choose is capable of holding at least 500 pounds (about 227 kilograms). This is about the required capacity it would take to hold an average person in safety, and still accommodate dynamic movements and additional forces they generate during practice.
STEP 3: INSTALL THE MOUNTING HARDWARE
This is the step that requires the most care and attention. You have to make sure you get the estimations right, and the swing is securely attached. Let's mount the hardware!
Drill Pilot Holes
Mark the Spot
Once you’ve located the joist, mark the center with a pencil. This is where you’ll drill your pilot holes.
Then Drill
Using a drill, create small pilot holes where you’ve marked. These holes will reduce the risk of the wood splitting and also make it easier to screw in the mounting hardware.
Attach the Mounting Plate
First, position the Plate
Place the mounting plate over the pilot holes. Make sure the plate is level and aligned with the marks you made earlier, and also centered on the joist.
Then, Screw in the Plate
Use the screws provided to attach the mounting plate to the ceiling. Make sure the screws are tight and the plate is secure. If you’re using a mount that requires more than two screws, insert all screws evenly to ensure stability.
Attach the Carabiners
To connect the swing to the mounting plate, you need carabiners, which are usually provided by the manufacturer. Yoga swings from ZelusFitness come with 4 carabiners. If not, the carabiners you use must be heavy-duty, and capable of holding at least 500 pounds (about 227 kilograms).
Secure the Carabiners
Clip the carabiners into the holes on the mounting plate. Don’t forget to double-check that they are securely fastened and that they can freely rotate without unscrewing or coming loose.
STEP 4: HANGING THE YOGA SWING
Now that the mounting hardware is in place, it’s time to hang your yoga swing.
Attaching the Swing
Clip the Swing
Clip the loops or straps of the yoga swing into the carabiners. Make sure the swing is hanging evenly, and both sides are adjusted to the same length.
Adjust the Height
The height of your swing must match the nature of the poses and exercises you plan to do. For seated poses or inversions, for example, the swing needs to be low enough to support your hips or back but high enough to still high enough to allow your feet to clear the floor.
Test the Swing
First Test
This test is to make sure the swing is secure while putting yourself in as little danger as possible. Gently pull on the swing to test the installation. Start with light pressure, gradually increasing to your full body weight.
Full Test
Once you’re confident in the initial test, try sitting in the swing and gently bouncing or swaying. This will help you ensure that the swing can support dynamic movements.
STEP 5: FINAL ADJUSTMENTS
After hanging the swing, you may need to make some final adjustments to ensure everything is perfect.
Height Adjustment
Recheck the Height
Once you’ve tested the swing, attempt performing a couple of poses. You should be able to complete these poses without straining to reach the floor or bending door much to fit in the swing.
Fine-Tuning
If you find the swing to be too high or too low, adjust the straps accordingly. Modern swings have adjustable straps that make this process easy. Fine- tune until you are ready to go!
Once properly installed, your yoga swing can open up a world of possibilities in your yoga routine. For more essential tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your Yoga Swing, visit ZelusFitness. Zelus has been providing high-quality exercise equipment for enthusiasts all around the world, helping them get into shape, and live more fulfilling lives.