What is the GYROTONIC® Method?
The GYROTONIC® method was created from the love of movement. Swimmer, dancer and gymnast, Julio Horvath developed the GYROTONIC® method using key principles of gymnastics, swimming, ballet, and yoga through which major muscle groups are worked in an integrated manner. He created a system of exercises that help practitioners move beyond the limitations in their bodies in order to increase movement, build strength and enhance agility.
Initially designed as a way to help rehabilitate students suffering from injuries, Horvath’s new movement system was called “Yoga for Dancers.” As his system became more popular, Horvath modified the program to accommodate everyone regardless of age or condition of health – and was eventually known as the GYROTONIC® method.
Practiced in both private and group sessions, the GYROTONIC® method utilizes exercise equipment designed to work in sync with the natural movement patterns of the body. This system is supported by exercise equipment, specifically designed around the human body to allow total freedom in movement, no restriction to speed or versatility, and enhances coordination, strength and flexibility. The adjustability of the equipment accommodates the uniqueness of each person’s body type and ability.
Experts have discovered that Horvath’s system of exercises can be beneficial in helping relieve arthritis, back pain, neck and joint stiffness and flexibility. It is becoming more widely used in the health care industry by chiropractors, osteopaths, physical therapists and rehabilitation units. For seniors, Horvath’s method can increase range of motion, strengthen the nervous system and improve spinal articulation and flexibility. Many seniors say after doing GYROTONIC® exercises they’ve experienced relief from arthritis and stiff joints, improved strength, stamina and circulation, a straighter posture, more restful sleep, increased concentration and an overall greater sense of well-being. Other benefits include:
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Improved bone density
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Improved mood and sense of well being
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Reduced arthritic pain – the unique movements are gentle and safe
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Overall muscle and Joint Improvement
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Reduced Back pain
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Improved core strength - prevent falls
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Reduced risk of dementia – using the left and right brain simultaneously through coordinating movements
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Reduced blood pressure
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Improved stamina
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More confidence and independence as you become physically stronger and more flexible
The GYROTONIC TOWER® is a beautiful wooden structure that has been designed around the body. It has a tower with weights and pulleys that uses gentle co-centric and eccentric movements. These movements with the Tower improve muscle strength and flexibility, a unique way of exercising that is gentle on your body.
The handles of Tower can be adjusted to the clients’ needs. A client can easily sit on the handle unit and move the handles in a swimming type of motion. By doing this movement the client works the spine in a forward and backwards motion, we refer to as an Arch and Curl.
The gentle circular movements and breathing patterns performed in GYROTONIC® method not only help improve alignment and injury rehabilitation and prevention, they also provide more fluid range of motion. These exercises serve to stimulate the internal neuromuscular system and improve kinesthetic awareness.