The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®
Want to feel more alive, free and at peace in YOUR body–no matter what your size, shape, age or condition? If “yes”, then discover the benefits of the Gyrotonic Expansion System.
The major benefits include:
Increased strength, stamina, flexibility and coordination
These benefits are the same if you are experiencing back or shoulder pain, feel weak or stiff in your joints or spine, or are recovering from an injury or knee/hip surgery. The Gyrotonic Expansion System increases mobility, balance, and energy so you feel more alive!
What are Gyrotonic Exercises?
Gyrotonic exercises are a totally new system of movement developed by the renowned Romanian fitness expert, Juliu Horvath, in the early 1980’s. Incorporating the principles found in yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming and tai-chi, Horvath developed a unique system of equipment and exercises to work the body from the inside out. The exercises are based on an expanding series of fluid circular and spiral movements, with adjustable resistance and incorporating a synchronized breathing pattern, all resulting in working the musculature, cardiovascular and neurologic systems simultaneously.
Reasons to do Gyrotonic exercises:
• Mobilize the spine and free the joints
• Develop profound core body strength
• Recover lost function due to injury
• Release tension in the body
• Strengthen the immune system
• Improve body alignment
• Enhance body awareness
• Increase bone strength and density
• Revitalize natural energy
• Restore body symmetry
What are GYROKINESIS® Exercises?
GYROKINESIS exercises utilize the same principles as GYROTONIC movements but are done on a stool or on the floor. A typical GYROKINESIS class begins by engaging the spine and pelvis with simple awakening exercises. While seated, participants mobilize their body through a series of arching, curling, bending, twisting and spiraling movements combined with corresponding breathing patterns that stimulate the nervous system and open up energy pathways. These same movement patterns are expanded to release the hip, knee, hamstring, quadriceps and so on, in all possible directions.
After experiencing many personal struggles and chronic illnesses, Juliu Horvath spent many years in self-exploration and study. These experiences not only led him to true healing, but he was also inspired to create a movement system that offers the same benefits to others. Some of the hallmarks of GYROKINESIS exercises are the fluidity of the movements and the ease with which one can perform them. This approach systematically and gently works the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating motions.
The system’s unique movement signature is three-dimensional, using gentle repetitive circling, spiraling and undulating exercises in a set rhythm. Most importantly, an energetic polarity is encouraged by simultaneously reaching in opposite directions, creating both internal balance and support. Through the constant ebb-and-flow of push-and-pull movements, connective tissues are stimulated to maintain their suppleness.
Fluidity is the key. Postures are not held for long periods of time. Instead, postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, making exercises appear and feel more like a dance and swimming than like traditional yoga. The more advanced classes offer endurance training to participants prepared for more strenuous activities. All classes, from beginner to advanced, encompass not only sitting but also laying and standing positions.
This an excellent way to experience a new kind of organic exercise derived from the motions of swimming, dance, tai chi, gymnastics and yoga and can be done by young and mature alike. Those who practice GYROKINESIS tend to be more relaxed in their daily lives, more comfortable in their body and can move with greater strength, flexibility and ease.
GYROTONIC®, GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® and GYROKINESIS®
are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic Sales Corp and are used with permission.
