Pilates v. Gyrotonic
There is no competition, as these two movement modalities provide
stimulating, challenging ways to strengthen the body.
Pilates has long been associated with dancers and dance studios. Over
the past ten years, Pilates workouts have gained much exposure and
recognition in the world of fitness and rehabilitation – both
with physical therapists, chiropractors and osteopaths who support
it’s principles and value for greater health and healing potential.
“ Precise movements executed with proper form
and control engages not only the body but the mind as well.”
-- Joseph H. Pilates
Pilates is a well-developed system of movement and focus that expands
far beyond a basic exercise routine. The fundamentals address creating
a well functioning alignment and developing the deep support and strength
of the body’s core. A well-trained Pilates practitioner guides
the client to create balance and support within the core, first addressing
the relationships of essential elements– low back, abdominals
and buttocks, smaller, low load muscles. A progression will be to then
develop/connect these elements into fuller body movement with legs,
arms to enjoy full body integration with more ease and breath. People
generally express feeling increased freedom of movement, strength and
length. Benefits also included enhanced joint mobility, connective
tissue flexibility, muscular balance strength enhanced circulation
and cellular metabolism
GYROTONIC® like Pilates, is a movement system specially designed
to enhance muscle flexibility, strength and length while encouraging
proper postural alignment, only with an additional” twist. “ Those
who work with the GYROTONIC® express feelings of invigoration,
increased openness and a sense of leanness. Drawing on the key principles
of gymnastics, swimming, ballet, yoga and Tai Chi, GYROTONIC® stretches
and strengthens all major muscle groups while working the body as an
integrated whole, as opposed to unrelated body parts. The circular
nature of many of the GYROTONIC® movements provide a unique way
to increase mobility of the spine, shoulder and hip joints. This is
of significant importance as our movements, be they activities of daily
living or sports specific, require movement across all planes of motion.
The body is meant to move freely. Our lifestyles all to often leave
us sitting for hours at our desks, in front of our computers or in
our cars. Both Pilates and Gyrotonic help to restore the body’s
natural, inherent strength by incorporating unique, mindful movement/exercises. It will surprise you how good you feel and how great you look!