Stretch for the sky in Orbit tower yoga classes

Visitors to the former Olympic Park will soon be able to take in the views from a variety of unusual angles as the ArcelorMittal Orbit hosts yoga classes 80 metres above the ground.

The weekly sessions at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will be held on the viewing platform of Britain’s largest sculpture, designed by Sir Anish Kapoor.

The classes will focus on postures, breathing, mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Views from the sculpture include the former Olympic Stadium, The Gherkin, The Shard, St Paul’s, Canary Wharf and Wembley Stadium.

The Evening Standard was given a preview of the Yoga in the Sky experience ahead of its launch next month as the sun set over the park.

Starting with sun salutations followed by various poses including plank, dolphin, tree, downward-facing dog, warrior I, shoulder stands and head stands — for those who can do them —the hour-long class ended as the sun set, providing a dramatic backdrop for the final relaxation.

High-rise yoga is a growing trend in the capital with classes at The Shard and on the glass floor of Tower Bridge. Hatha yoga teacher Rebecca Spooner, who teaches the Yoga in the Sky class, said lessons at height help people feel more “uplifted” than at ground level.

She said: “The visual aspect of it makes people feel uplifted which might make their (yoga) practice better. It’s not nice when you’re in a box space.

“Because of the height, it’s a beautiful view, it doesn’t get better. And in sunrise it will be even better.”

Classes, which start on March 7, will be held at 7am for advanced and 8.15am for beginners, costing £17.50 or £80 for six.