What is the GYROTONIC® method?
The GYROTONIC® method is a series of movement sequences on specialized equipment that was created by dancer and athlete Juliu Horvath when he was seriously injured in the 1970s. In the 1980s, Horvath then built the tower to gyrotonic pulleys (photo) to support these movement sequences. Gyrotonic is now used worldwide by many types of movers, therapists and doctors.
The Gyrotonic method focuses on:
- alignment and mobility; contrast and decompression
- how to stretch and strengthen simultaneously
- release tense fascia and muscles, especially in hard-to-reach areas
What equipment does GYROTONIC® use?
The gyrotonic pulley tower
- was designed for uninterrupted, circular and spiral movements – think swimming, rowing and ballet-like vocabulary
- uses a weighted pulley system and two rotating handles for resistance and support in all planes of motion
- Can be used as both a rehabilitation or cross-training tool for all types and levels of movers.
How can the Gyrotonic Method enhance your practice with other modalities?
yoga
I have been practicing all types of yoga for 20 years. When I began training in Gyrotonic over the last 10 years, the quality of my asanas quickly became smoother, more joyful and with less pain and struggle, particularly in my Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Yin practices. . With Gyrotonic’s emphasis on spiral movements with contrast and decompression, I found this to be an important key for transitions and control.
rod
I have been teaching Barre for almost 8 years now. I quickly learned that the challenge of these classes is being able to maintain good alignment during very difficult exercises. As Gyrotonic specifically trains strength and mobility with rhythm and breathing, you can access deeper muscle engagement to build a different kind of endurance – maintaining a good connection even when the body becomes fatigued.
pilates
I have also been practicing Pilates Equipment and Mat for a while now. I love that Gyrotonic and Pilates are similar in their beliefs but different in their vocabulary and support – they are like the Yin and Yang of specialist training. To find expansive movement, you will need stabilization; Once you are stabilized, you will need to challenge this with an expansive movement.
*At triyoga, if you plan to take or are already taking private classes with equipment, you can mix and match your private classes with Gyrotonic and Pilates on the same class package.
Overall, the Gyrotonic method is worth exploring because:
- it consists of a healthy combination of physiology and three-dimensional movement
- can actively improve awareness of alignment throughout the body
- Specific practical trainer tips provide traction and length to reduce compression
Finally, combining the Gyrotonic method with other modalities helps reset the body, mobilizing and strengthening often neglected areas through its unique approach to movement. Whatever your goals are this year and beyond, be sure to incorporate something new!
About Kindall Payne
Kindall has a background in contemporary ballet and dance sciences as well as over 10 years of experience teaching the GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® methods. Kindall has worked with people of all ages and abilities to increase fluidity of movement, as well as strength and awareness of alignment. She is also qualified in Gyrotonic level 2 (advanced), in gyrotonic applications for dancers, in pre and post natal applications and in gyrotonic principles in the context of osteopathy.
Kindall is available Mondays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9 p.m. to 12 p.m. in Camden.
book a session with Kindall
A word from Kindall customers:
I started Gyrotonic due to hip injuries and poor rehabilitation after foot surgery and finally got the connection back, including mobility and sensation found in my foot and hip!
– Maria, dancer and Pilates teacher
In 6 sessions spread over a few months, I noticed a considerable improvement in my climbing and yoga practices. Kindall spotted awkward movement habits and, patiently, taught me how to move in a much better, smarter way.
– Juan, marketing and sales consultant