Suspension Bondage Is Dangerous

We love suspension bondage and we’re excited to share it with you. We want to be very clear, however, about the risks involved.

1. Suspension bondage involves unavoidable risk. Like rock climbing, suspension is a risky activity. Good preparation and training can reduce your risk, but even if you do everything right there is still a chance that you may be injured or killed, or that you may injure or kill another person.

2. We don’t have all the answers. Unlike rock climbing, suspension bondage has no professional standards bodies and no expert consensus about best practices. This book is based on years of study, practice, and consultation with outside experts. Nonetheless, you should be aware that suspension is still a developing field, and our understanding of the best way to do things is still evolving.

3. You can’t learn suspension from a book. The only safe way to learn suspension is to work with a qualified instructor or mentor. This book is a valuable adjunct to expert instruction, but not a substitute for it. Without a skilled teacher to guide and evaluate you, you cannot learn suspension without placing your partner in tremendous danger.

4. Don’t get ahead of yourself. Suspension is fun and exciting, and you will likely be tempted to rush ahead and try activities that you aren’t yet ready for. We can’t stress enough the importance of proceeding slowly and methodically, and always working within your skill level.

5. Always use good judgment. Your best defense against mishap is your own common sense and good judgment. Always be mindful of what you’re doing, and err on the side of caution.

Your partner is placing tremendous faith in your competence and judgment. If you are careless or overly ambitious, they are likely to pay a heavy price for your foolishness. Make sure that you are worthy of their trust.

Suspended Animation accepts no responsibility for any injury or death which may occur as a result of the activities described in this book. By reading this book, you agree to take full responsibility for your actions and their consequences.

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Iliac crest

Finding the iliac crest

The iliac crest refers to the point at the top of the pelvis. It is clearly visible on many thin people, and can easily be felt on most people.

The iliac crest is a useful landmark when tying a hip harness. A harness placed immediately below the iliac crest will tend to sit securely and comfortably on the pelvis.

Inversion

Inversion is fun but high risk.

An inversion is a suspension in which the bottom is upside down. Inversions can be a ton of fun, but they are very high risk. The bottom’s entire weight is typically suspended by a single line, and they are at very high risk of injury if they fall.

Inversions are deceptively simple to rig. Don’t be fooled: inversion is one of the most advanced techniques, and should only be attempted by an expert rigger with absolutely flawless technique.

See also: Skill and Judgment