SHE may look like she is just hanging around but Kate Ryan  is trying out an increasingly popular exercise craze: aerial silks fitness.

The 29-year-old, from Marston, is one of the most experienced students at the AfreakAAerials class, that uses silks and hoops hanging from the ceiling.

She said: “I first studied aerial silks when I lived in Chicago two years ago. I saw a film about it and thought it was really beautiful so I joined a class the next day.

“When I moved back to Oxford there was no class, so I took a hiatus, but then the AfreakAAerials class started 18 months ago and I’ve been training with them ever since.”

The postdoctoral chemist said: “They’re great at pushing you to do your best.

“I’m a bit nervous about heights and doing big drops on the silk so they’re good at getting me to do more.”

Dr Ryan’s moves may seem incredible, but she remains nonchalant, adding: “It’s all about core and upper body strength. When I first started I couldn’t do a pull-up, but it’s amazing what you learn.

“I’ve done yoga for 12 years, so that helps.”

  • For more information on AfreakAAerials visit afreakaaerials.com 
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