For years, medical experts have emphasized the health benefits of yoga and its popularity has grown.

With many variations of yoga, there is a method for people of all abilities. But a recent study has found that a certain type of yoga can offer even more health benefits.

Aerial yoga, which uses hammocks or silk wraps to lift participants off the floor and perform traditional yoga poses in mid-air, can be as beneficial as other low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercises, a study by the American Council on Exercise found.

Study participants attended aerial yoga sessions for six weeks. Researchers from Western State Colorado University found that participants had reductions in some common risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Heart disease risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, unhealthy diets and obesity, some of which can be improved with exercise.

A single session of aerial yoga, which is more challenging than traditional yoga because practitioners are above the floor, can burn more than 300 calories. That is similar to other aerobic workouts such as a brisk walk or a leisurely bike ride.

Aerial yoga is also recommended for people with neck or back problems that might prevent them from doing traditional yoga poses because they have more freedom in the air.

In general, yoga provides many health and wellness benefits, including increased flexibility and muscle strength, improved respiration, injury prevention, stress relief and better emotional health.

So for those practicing their downward dogs or wheelbarrow poses, consider aerial yoga to keep the heart healthy.