Introduction
Congenital chest wall deformities are not only a medical issue but also a psychological challenge, especially for girls and young women. One of the most common conditions is funnel chest, where the sternum is sunken inward and the lower ribs are atypically bulging. Physically it may affect posture, breathing, and overall endurance leading to certain psychological problems.
Traditionally, it is believed that there are only several options: accept the body if the deformation is not severe and doesn’t influence the health, try traditional methods or undergo surgery. However, if it’s a mild or moderate level of funnel chest more doctors suggest regular physical activity, particularly sports that actively engage bodyweight control, posture, and deep core muscles. Among these disciplines, handstands, functional training, and aerial gymnastics stand out. This is a really good option if it refers to children or teenagers with a mild or moderate level, who can stand and adapt to regular physical exercises ( which is extremely important).
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at:
- what funnel chest is;
- why surgery is not the only solution;
- how sport can help improve appearance and well-being;
- why aerial gymnastics is considered one of the most effective and aesthetic disciplines;
- what equipment is used and how to choose safe aerial apparatus.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, but it can help you to be more informed, and all the decisions should be made under medical control. Only a doctor can decide which solution is more applicable in this or that case.
What Is Funnel Chest
Funnel chest is a congenital condition of bone and cartilage development in which the sternum is displaced backward, forming a noticeable depression in the center of the chest. The severity varies from mild to severe.
Key characteristics
- often becomes noticeable in childhood or adolescence;
- may worsen during growth spurts;
- frequently accompanied by rounded shoulders and poor posture;
- in some cases, it may affect respiratory or cardiovascular function.
It is essential to recognize that many individuals with pectus excavatum experience no significant medical limitations, and the primary challenge is often related to self-esteem rather than health concerns.
Surgical Correction: Pros and Cons
Surgical treatment can significantly change the shape of the chest. And in case of severe deformation, it may be the only option. However, it is a serious intervention and not suitable for everyone, even taking into account all the benefits like noticeable visual correction, anatomical reshaping of the chest bone, and, in certain cases, improved respiratory function or relief of cardiac issues. But still, it has a certain number of drawbacks:
- surgical risks and long recovery periods;
- postoperative pain;
- restrictions on physical activity for months;
- high cost and limited accessibility;
- psychological stress.
For these reasons, many people and their families look for alternative or traditional methods like the special suction bell, which do not involve surgery.
Sport as an Alternative and Supportive Approach
Physical activity does not directly change bone structure, but it can significantly improve the appearance of the chest by:
- strengthening back and shoulder muscles;
- opening the chest area;
- improving posture;
- increasing lung capacity and breathing efficiency.
Regular training makes the chest appear more open, while the body becomes stronger and more balanced.
Why Handstands and Bodyweight Training Are So Effective
Handstands, balance work, and bodyweight exercises require active engagement of: deep core muscles, spinal extensors, shoulder girdle, and chest muscles.
During these exercises, the body lengthens, the chest opens, and habitual slouching gradually decreases. For kids with funnel chest, this visual improvement can become noticeable after just a few months of consistent practice.
Aerial Gymnastics: Aesthetic, Strength, and Therapeutic Effect
Aerial gymnastics is not just a sport but a combination of strength, flexibility, coordination, and beauty of movement. Training on aerial apparatus requires body awareness and control in space, helping to create a strong, elongated body line.
Main benefits of aerial gymnastics
- active opening of the thoracic spine;
- strengthening of back and shoulder muscles;
- posture improvement;
- increased self-confidence;
- aesthetic and graceful body appearance.
Aerial Equipment Used in Training
Safe and effective aerial training requires professional aerial equipment. The most common apparatus includes: Aerial silks, aerial hoop, or lyra, aerial straps, and hammock.
Why High-Quality Equipment Matters
Having already a problem in the body, the main thing to be considered is safety. Aerial acrobatics, like any sport, can be traumatic, but the height adds some extra on top. That is why safety is the top priority in aerial gymnastics. And professional aerial equipment and rigging play a key role. It withstands high loads, is made from tested, durable materials, is suitable for studios and home training (with proper installation), and provides comfort and confidence during practice. Choosing reliable equipment is an investment not only in performance but also in long-term health.
Aerial Equipment for Training and Progress
The Aerial Equipment category at the ACROFLYDANCE online store offers apparatus suitable for both beginners and advanced aerialists. The equipment can be used:
- in aerial studios;
- at home (with proper rigging);
- for supportive and conditioning training;
- for photoshoots and performances.
Psychological Aspect: Body Acceptance Through Movement
For many girls with congenital chest deformations, sport can become more than a physical activity — it is a way to reconnect with their bodies. Aerial gymnastics builds confidence, helps to release physical and emotional tension, creates a sense of control over the body, and shifts focus from perceived flaws to inner strength.
And still, we stress it once more – before starting any training program, you should consult a physician and an experienced coach.
Funnel chest is not a limitation or a barrier to an active, confident, and fulfilling life. In addition to surgical intervention, there is a path of conscious body work through sport. Handstands, functional training, and especially aerial gymnastics help open the chest, strengthen muscles, improve posture, and transform the way a person perceives their body.
Properly structured training and high-quality Aerial Equipment become reliable tools on this journey — an investment not only in appearance but also in health, strength, and self-confidence.
Movement has the power to change far more than it seems at first glance.
