Gyrotonic & Gyrokinesis

The Gyrotonic method is comprised of fluid, three-dimensional movements that may remind you of dance, swimming, tai chi, gymnastics, and yoga. At Willow Wellness Studio we offer Gyrotonic private lessons and duets.

The Gyrotonic methodology allows practitioners to stretch and strengthen muscles, while simultaneously stimulating and strengthening connective tissues in and around the joints of the body. These exercises are synchronized with corresponding breathing patterns, thus enhancing aerobic and cardiovascular stimulation and promoting neuromuscular rejuvenation.

Gyrotonic exercises offer complete freedom of movement. Exercises are performed on the Gyrotonic Pulley Tower, and the system is fully adjustable to meet the needs of many people with varying body types and levels of strength. The even and constant resistance in the handle unit and pulley tower completely eliminates the jarring that takes place at the beginning and end of exercises performed on conventional exercise equipment, when many injuries occur. The circular, spiraling and undulating movements that characterize the Gyrotonic methodology help to increase the functional capacity of the spine, contributing to a spherical and three dimensional awareness, resulting in improved balance.

The Gyrokinesis method is based on the same principles as Gyrotonic movement, but it is performed sitting on stools, on the mat, and standing. Since no large equipment is needed, Gyrokinesis exercises are often practiced in group classes. This is also an excellent system to practice at home or while traveling since the space and equipment requirements are limited.

More information about the Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis methodologies is available at www.gyrotonic.com.

Pilates

Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Pilates called his method Contrology, because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.

Instructors at Willow Studio are trained in the STOTT method of Pilates. STOTT Pilates is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than a decade refining the STOTT Pilates method of exercise. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and most effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT Pilates training and certification programs.

Group Classes

January 2-March 4, 2012

We ask that all students take a 45-minute initial session before joining a group class. This session allows us to help you design a personal workout plan and allows you to gain a basic familiarity with the movement in a one-on-one setting.

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Therapeutic Movement

The Pilates and Gyrotonic exercises can be modified to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes and we love working with people on all parts of the spectrum. Instructors at Willow Wellness Studio have special training to use these movement systems therapeutically for rehabilitating injuries. We will be happy to consult with you to determine whether our modalities are safe and appropriate for your situation. Therapeutic movement can be used to address:

• Neck and shoulder issues;
• Regain strength and flexibility after an injury, surgery, or stroke;
• Increase hip flexibility and strength;
• Retrain movement patterns after hip or knee replacement;
• Work in a safe way to help maintain bone density;
• Address various spine issues including scoliosis, surgery recovery, and pain management.

What is the difference between Pilates and the Gyrotonic method?

Pilates focuses on alignment control while Gyrotonic exercises work on releasing tension around the joints, re-patterning basic movements to be more efficient, and using a more full range of motion. Pilates is more two dimensional and linear while Gyrotonic exercises are more three dimensional, using circling and spiraling movements. In Pilates we work from the "core," meaning primarily use of the abdominal muscles. In Gyrotonic movements we use the muscles of the pelvis, the abdominals, and the intrinsic muscles of the spine as our "core." Pilates tends to work different parts of the body more individually, while Gyrotonic philosophy approaches the body as a more integrated whole. Activities involving broad movements and rotation over a larger range would especially benefit from Gyrotonic exercises. Here is a real life example: Pilates would strengthen the pure rotation of the golf swing and Gyrotonic exercises would focus on the larger range of motion necessary for a successful and powerful golf swing.

Pilates probably looks a little bit more like movement that you have encountered elsewhere -- at the gym or in physical therapy. Gyrotonic movements look more like dance and may seem more intimidating at first. If you are primarily interested in toning or strengthening specific muscles then you may want to try Pilates first. If you are interested in increasing your overall balance, coordination, or range of movement then try Gyrotonic methodology. We generally find that people gravitate more towards one system. We want you to enjoy your workout and are happy to let you give both systems a try.