Aerial Hammock: How to Tie, Rigging Safety, and Maintenance

How to Tie an Aerial Hammock?

Properly tying an aerial hammock is a critical process that ensures user safety and optimal performance, requiring precise technique, appropriate equipment, and a thorough understanding of rigging principles to securely suspend the fabric from a structurally sound anchor point.

The Foundation of Aerial Practice: Secure Rigging

Engaging in aerial arts, whether for fitness or artistic expression, demands an unwavering commitment to safety. The integrity of your aerial hammock setup is paramount, directly influencing the efficacy of your practice and, more importantly, preventing injury. As an expert in exercise science and kinesiology, I emphasize that understanding the biomechanics of load distribution and the engineering principles behind rigging is as vital as the physical movements themselves. This guide will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to safely tying an aerial hammock.

Safety First: Essential Pre-Rigging Considerations

Before any fabric is suspended, a rigorous safety protocol must be observed. Neglecting these foundational steps can lead to catastrophic failure and severe injury.

• Professional Rigging Point Assessment: The single most crucial step is to have a qualified structural engineer or experienced aerial rigger assess and install your ceiling anchor points. These points must be capable of supporting significant dynamic loads (your body weight plus the force generated during movement, which can be 3-5 times your body weight or more). Never assume a ceiling joist or beam is adequate without professional verification.
• Weight Limits: Be acutely aware of the weight limits for all components: the rigging point, the hardware (carabiners, swivels, daisy chains), and the aerial fabric itself. Always err on the side of caution and adhere strictly to manufacturer specifications.
• Clearance and Space: Ensure ample clear space around and beneath the hammock. Avoid proximity to walls, furniture, or other obstacles.
• Crash Mats: Always use appropriate crash mats beneath your aerial setup, even for seemingly low-height rigging. Falls can occur unexpectedly.
• Regular Inspection: All equipment, including fabric, hardware, and rigging points, must be inspected before every use for wear, tear, deformation, or damage.

Required Equipment

To properly tie an aerial hammock, you will need specific, high-quality aerial-grade equipment:

• Aerial Fabric: Typically 40-denier nylon tricot, with a specific width (e.g., 108 inches) and length (often 6-9 yards, depending on ceiling height and desired use).
• Daisy Chains or Adjustable Slings: These are multi-loop webbing straps used for connecting the fabric to the rigging point and for precise height adjustment.
• Locking Carabiners: At least two (preferably three or four for redundancy, depending on the setup). These must be steel or aluminum, rated for dynamic loads in aerial applications, and feature a secure locking mechanism (e.g., screw-gate, auto-locking).
• Swivel (Optional but Recommended): A rotational device that prevents twisting of the fabric and hardware during spinning movements, extending equipment lifespan and enhancing user experience.
• Figure-8 Descender (or Rescue 8): A metal device shaped like an "8" that is commonly used to create a secure, adjustable knot for the aerial fabric.
• Measuring Tape: For accurate height adjustment.
• Ladder or Step Stool: For safe access to your rigging point.

Understanding the Rigging Points

Your aerial hammock will typically be hung from one or two rigging points.

• Single Point Rigging: The most common setup for aerial hammocks, where the fabric gathers at a single point above. This allows for multi-directional movement and spinning.
• Double Point Rigging (U-shape): Less common for hammocks, but used for aerial silks or trapeze. This creates a more stable, two-point suspension. For hammocks, a single point is generally preferred for its versatility.

Regardless of the configuration, the structural integrity of the ceiling attachment is non-negotiable. It must withstand the static weight of the user, plus the dynamic forces generated during movement, which can be several times the user's body weight.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tying Your Aerial Hammock

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a secure and functional aerial hammock setup.

1. Preparation and Initial Setup

• Clear the Area: Ensure the space beneath and around your rigging point is clear of any obstructions. Lay down crash mats.
• Gather Equipment: Have all necessary hardware and fabric within easy reach.
• Inspect All Components: Perform a thorough visual and tactile inspection of your aerial fabric, daisy chains, carabiners, and swivel. Look for any cuts, fraying, rust, deformation, or signs of wear. If any component shows damage, do not use it.

2. Attach Daisy Chain(s) to the Rigging Point

• Secure Attachment: If your rigging point is a single eye-bolt or ring, loop one end of your daisy chain through it and secure it back onto itself (e.g., with a girth hitch or by connecting a carabiner through two loops). Ensure the daisy chain is snug and correctly oriented. If using two daisy chains for a single point, they should converge at a single carabiner.

3. Attach Carabiners to the Daisy Chain(s)

• Connect and Lock: Attach one or two locking carabiners to the desired loop(s) of the daisy chain, depending on your setup. If using a swivel, connect it here between the daisy chain and the carabiner that will hold the fabric. Crucially, ensure all carabiners are fully locked before proceeding.

4. Prepare the Aerial Fabric

• Find the Center: Lay your aerial fabric out flat on the floor. Carefully find the exact center point of the fabric length-wise. This will be the point that attaches to your rigging hardware.
• Gather the Fabric: Gather the fabric neatly and evenly at its center point, creating a bundle.

5. Attach the Fabric to the Hardware (Using a Figure-8 Descender)

This is the most common and secure method for attaching aerial hammock fabric.

• Thread the Fabric: Take the gathered center of your fabric and thread it up through the large loop of the Figure-8 descender, then down through the small loop.
• Create the Basket Hitch: Pull a generous amount of fabric through the small loop, then wrap this tail of fabric around the entire Figure-8 descender and the gathered fabric bundle, creating a secure "basket hitch." This helps to keep the fabric neatly bundled and prevents slippage.
• Secure with Carabiner: Clip a locking carabiner through the small loop of the Figure-8 descender, ensuring it also captures the main loop of the fabric bundle above the Figure-8. This carabiner will then connect to the carabiner already attached to your daisy chain/swivel. Double-check that all carabiners are locked.

6. Adjust Hammock Height

• Target Height: For most aerial hammock practices, the bottom of the hammock should hang roughly at hip or waist height when standing. This allows for comfortable entry and exit, and effective ground-based movements.
• Using Daisy Chains: Utilize the multiple loops on your daisy chain(s) to precisely adjust the height. Move the carabiner to a higher or lower loop as needed. Ensure the fabric hangs evenly.

Testing and Verification

Once the hammock is tied and adjusted, a thorough testing phase is essential before full use.

• Gradual Load Application:
  • Light Pull: Gently pull down on the hammock with increasing pressure, visually inspecting all connections (rigging point, daisy chain, carabiners, Figure-8 knot) for any signs of slippage or instability.
  • Partial Weight: Carefully place a portion of your body weight into the hammock (e.g., one foot, then gradually more). Listen for any unusual sounds and continue to visually inspect the setup.
  • Full Weight (Static): Slowly place your full body weight into the hammock, remaining still for a moment. Check again for any shifts or sounds.
  • Dynamic Test: Perform gentle, controlled movements (e.g., gentle swings, seated positions) to test the dynamic load capacity.
• Visual Confirmation: After testing, re-inspect every component for any changes in position, wear, or stress.

Maintenance and Ongoing Safety

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safety of your aerial hammock setup.

• Pre-Use Inspections: Develop a habit of inspecting all components before every single use.
• Fabric Care: Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning your aerial fabric. Most are machine washable on a delicate cycle with mild detergent, but specific instructions may vary.
• Hardware Longevity: Store hardware in a clean, dry place. Replace carabiners and swivels if they show any signs of wear, rust, or damage. Daisy chains should be replaced if they exhibit significant fraying or cuts.
• Professional Re-Inspection: Consider having your rigging points and hardware professionally re-inspected periodically, especially if you use your hammock frequently or if there are any concerns about structural integrity.

Conclusion

Tying an aerial hammock correctly is a foundational skill for anyone engaging in aerial fitness. It is a process that demands attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of appropriate, high-quality equipment. By following these evidence-based guidelines and prioritizing professional installation and regular inspection, you can create a secure environment that allows you to safely explore the myriad physical and mental benefits of aerial practice. Remember, your safety is paramount; never compromise on the integrity of your rigging.