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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Nerve Damage

We know far too many people who have either suffered a significant nerve injury, or who have caused one in someone else. Many riggers, in fact, believe that nerve injuries simply come with the territory: do enough suspension, and you will inevitably cause a serious nerve injury. We disagree—we believe it’s possible to perform world-class suspension without taking undue risks.

Sections

1. From Bad to Worse

We could easily fill an entire book with stories of people who’ve suffered nerve damage during suspension. Since nobody but us would read that book, we’ll stick to a single typical story.

2. Avoid the Box Tie

Lots of people love the box tie. It’s versatile, it’s fundamental to traditional shibari, and it’s fascinating to study. We believe, however, that it simply isn’t safe for suspension.

3. Protect the Wrist

Although wrist injuries tend to be less serious than those caused by the box tie, it’s still important to avoid them.

4. Watch For Nerve Damage

Even if you do everything right, you may someday experience nerve damage. The sooner you recognize it, the less severe it’s likely to be.

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FTGU 101    |    v. 2016.1

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