Often times people see Gyrotonic® equipment and think its a new piece of Pilates equipment although it may look similar in some aspects. The truth its a completely different system and the approach is very different as well. So what is Gyrotonic® and is it related to Gyrokinesis®?
Gyrotonic®
Gyrotonic® is a type of exercise system that was developed in the 1980s by Juliu Horvath, a Hungarian dancer and physical therapist. It combines elements of yoga, dance, gymnastics, and swimming into a flowing, circular movement practice that is designed to increase flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination.
The Gyrotonic® system uses specially designed equipment, which includes a pulley tower, handle unit, and a rotating disc. The equipment provides resistance and support to the body, allowing for a wide range of movements and postures that work the entire body in a holistic way.
The Gyrotonic® method emphasizes continuous, flowing movements that help to increase range of motion and build functional strength. The circular movements of the Gyrotonic® system are designed to mimic the natural movements of the human body, which can help to improve overall body awareness and reduce the risk of injury.
Gyrotonic® is often used by dancers, athletes, and people seeking a low-impact form of exercise that is gentle on the joints. It can also be used as a form of rehabilitation for people recovering from injuries or surgery. Gyrotonic® is typically taught in a private or semi-private setting with a certified instructor, but it can also be practiced at home with a Gyrotonic® equipment set.
Gyrokinesis®
Gyrokinesis® is a movement method that was also developed by Juliu Horvath, the founder of Gyrotonic. It is a form of exercise that is performed on a mat and chair and utilizes flowing, circular movements to increase flexibility, strength, and range of motion.
Unlike Gyrotonic®, which uses specialized equipment, Gyrokinesis® relies solely on the body and a chair to provide support and resistance. The movements of Gyrokinesis® are designed to improve joint mobility and stimulate the nervous system, promoting an overall sense of well-being.
The Gyrokinesis® method incorporates elements of yoga, dance, tai chi, and swimming, and the movements are performed in a flowing, continuous sequence. The exercises are performed in seated, kneeling, and standing positions, with a focus on fluid transitions between postures.
Gyrokinesis® can be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels, and it is often used by dancers, athletes, and people seeking a low-impact form of exercise that is gentle on the joints. It can also be used as a form of rehabilitation for people recovering from injuries or surgery. Gyrokinesis® is typically taught in a group setting with a certified instructor.
So now you have a basic understanding about both Gyrotonic® and Gyrokinesis®. These two complex techniques are performed and taught by well trained professionals all with the same understanding and skill as its founder Julie Horvath. Now the issue at hand is finding an instructor that you can get assistance from using either of these techniques in your rehabilitation goals. First I'd suggest consulting with one of these instructors to see how either or both of these techniques can help you. Fortunately for us at "The Body Web" one of our owners Kandace Gonzalez is a GYROTONIC® Master Trainer, GYROKINESIS® Level 1&2 instructor. So I guess you can say its a one stop shop for everything GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS®.