Gyrotonic
The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® is a unique system of equipment and exercise that embrace some of the key principals also found in yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming, and tai-chi.
Gyrotonic developer, Juliu Horvath, began his career as a dancer with the Romanian State Opera, the New York City Opera, and later the Houston Ballet. In the early 1970s, Juliu ruptured his Achilles tendon, which ended his dance career. Following this injury he began to develop a technique called “Yoga for Dancers”, a deeper and more advanced level of what is now called Gyrokinesis. He then designed and developed equipment that would complement his mat exercises, which led to the Gyrotonic Expansion System.
Unlike most conventional exercise machines where linear and isolated movement patterns are performed creating uncoordinated strength, the Gyrotonic Expansion System emphasizes multiple joint articulations without compression, thus strengthening ligaments and each attachment.
Each exercise is synchronized with a corresponding breathing pattern and is performed with either a rhythm or melodical rhythmical expression, creating a gentle or vigorous cardiovascular aerobic stimulation, depending on the intensity and speed of execution.
What are the benefits?
- Promotes strong, lean muscles
- Increases flexibility, coordination, and balance
- Enhances joint mobility and articulation
- Frees the body of pain and restrictions
- Increases circulation of blood, lymphatic fluids, and energy
- Strengthens the nervous system
- Compliments/supplements physical therapy and other rehabilitative body work
- Helps prevents osteoporosis
- Helps to slow the aging process through mental and physical stimulation and regeneration
Through full body integration of movement and breathing patterns, Gyrotonic exercises can enhance aerobic and cardiovascular stimulation and promote neuromuscular rejuvenation. Unique to the Gyrotonic method, the circularity, spiraling and undulating movements increase the functional capacity of the spine and create a spherical and three-dimensional awareness, resulting in total equilibrium.
A single Gyrotonic session can relieve muscle stress and leave individuals feeling more aware of their whole body. After a few weeks of training, individuals will likely feel a pronounced difference in strength, ease, and efficiency of movement and an overall sense of well being.
Who can do this technique?
Currently the Gyrotonic Expansion System is used worldwide with great success amongst the circle of dancers, sports people, rehabilitation facilities, as well as general conditioning amongst people of all walks of life, from children to senior citizens.