GYROTONIC®
GYROTONIC® is an exercise
plan, incorporating circular and spiraling
movement patterns. Done with the assistance of
equipment that uses the most modern approaches to
physical fitness, it stimulates the muscular
system, nervous system and vestibular system. All
which work together to improve how your body
functions and carries you with balance and
upright posture throughout life. Invented in 1977
by the Hungarian dancer Juliu Horvath, who was
particularly interested in human physiology, it
was originally called Yoga for Dancers, and then,
White Cloud. Brought to the United States in the
early 1980s, it was given its current name to
highlight its goal of improving the body’s
circulation and tone.
WHAT GYROTONIC® AND ITS APPLICATIONS CAN DO FOR YOU
GYROTONIC® workout consists of progressively challenging exercise modules that promote multi-directional and circular movement within your body.
GYROTONIC® makes you less vulnerable to injuries, stress and micro-traumas by increasing your spinal column’s functional ability. Being able to complete multiple joint movements without compression gives the body extraordinary flexibility and capability.
At the practice’s heart are seven spinal movement principles which also stimulate the nervous system, creating a sense of balance in the upright body:
- bending forward
- extending backward
- side-bending the right
- side-bending to the left
- rotating to the right
- rotating to the left
- articulated, circular motion
GYROTONIC® principles embrace key elements also found in yoga, dance, swimming and martial arts. Through speed and endurance variations, you can create an actual simulation of sport activity.
The program uses undulating and rhythmical exercises to work systematically and softly on joints and muscles, building core and lean muscle strength, while nourishing the body with focused breath work. Every exercise is synchronized with a specific type of breathing pattern, which builds breathing endurance. Advanced programs utilize both delicate and vigorous cardiovascular and aerobic rhythms.
GYROTONIC®, “THE CORE” AND THE MEDICAL COMMUNITY
The
international medical and scientific community
has celebrated the
GYROTONIC® methodology as
one of the best physical rehabilitation
techniques available. It has been used to achieve
the functional recovery of professional athletes
and dancers, as well as the general public. It is
safe for all ages and populations and can help
establish better structural and functional
wellbeing.
The following excerpt from OPTP's (Orthopedic
Physical Therapy Products), "Achieving Core
Stability" newsletter, published in February
2005, highlights the benefits of
GYROTONIC®:
“The body's core muscles, also known as the
trunk, are made up of the transversus abdominis,
lumbar multifidus, diaphragm and pelvic floor
muscles. The muscle groups encircle and support
your spine, making them the most intimately
involved groups in spinal stabilization. (Think
of them as a brace for your spine.) They also
play a crucial role in communication with the
central nervous system and brain. The
strengthening of functional muscle groups (core
muscles) leads to a more sophisticated
neuromuscular system and improved lumbar spine
support.”