Frequently Asked Questions

What is GYROKINESIS®?

GYROKINESIS® exercises work your body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right side, left twist, right twist and circular. It systematically and gently works joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements. These movements stimulate the body's internal organs while different corresponding breathing patterns are integrated along with the movements.
 
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.

What is the history of GYROTONIC®?

Juliu Horvath was a ballet dancer who suffered an Achilles tendon injury that ended his career. He began practicing yoga and co-developed a "Yoga for Dancers" regimen with Hilary Cartwright that eventually became GYROKINESIS® He then moved on to create GYROTONIC® equipment and exercises after many years of intense study and self-exploration. This unique system offers the same benefits also derived from yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming and tai chi, but is distinct from those forms.

IS GYROTONIC® Good for knee surgery recovery?

GYROTONIC® is excellent for knee surgery recovery, and is an integral part of knee surgery rehabilitation for many physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons.  The smooth, even movements and lack of jarring start or finish while using GYROTONIC® equipment make it a natural restorative workout for knee surgeries.
 
If your doctor or physical therapist does not use GYROTONIC® it is important that you receive clearance before beginning your GYROTONIC® training regimen. This will allow your instructor to develop a safe and effective exercise program tailored to your needs. 

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF GYROTONIC®?

GYROTONIC® can deliver benefits in a number of key areas:

• Postural improvement

• Increased flexibility

• Overall body awareness

• Amplified energy

• Core stability and strength

• Increased length & muscle tone

• Balance & coordination

• Injury prevention & rehabilitation

Can GYROTONIC® REPLACE STRENGTH TRAINING?

GYROTONIC® is strength training. All of the GYROTONIC® apparatus utilize resistance training. Even GYROKINESIS® class entails upper body work as well as isolated leg work. So yes, you can absolutely replace traditional weight lifting with GYROTONIC® and still gain muscle tone evenly.

What age groups should use GYROTONIC®?

Children as young as four have used special GYROTONIC® equipment designed especially for them! And GYROTONIC® is appropriate for all age groups, as the exercises are easily and readily adapted to each individual's needs and strengths. Seniors should get a doctor's approval before beginning GYROTONIC®.

Pregnant women can also benefit from GYROTONIC® It prepares your body for pregnancy and helps you remain flexible and strong while you are carrying. If you are not already training prior to conception, it is not recommended that you begin after you get pregnant because of the extreme focus on the abdominal wall. However, it is ideally suited for post-natal recovery regardless of prior experience. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting.

What do I wear to GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® classes?

You should wear clothing that is comfortable but form fitting. Nothing that is too loose or restrictive. Yoga pants and a slim-fitting T-shirt or tank top are good options. Socks are mandatory for hygiene purposes. Toezies and Toesox (toe-less socks) are great options. We suggest that long hair be tied back, and to remove any jewelry for safety purposes.

What about children and GYROTONIC®?

Juliu Horvath based many of his exercises on the movements of babies and children. Gyrotonic® can be especially appealing to children because it is fun and generally speaking, they do not have the limitations that we as adults have! GYROTONIC® encourages children to develop all muscles evenly, thus developing overall strength, flexibility and coordination. This instills poise, confidence and balance. Like any exercise regiment, it should first be discussed with your child's pediatrician. And of course, your child should be interested and excited to learn!

How many times a week should I commit to GYROTONIC®?

Initially, two to three times a week is ideal, especially for the first six to eight weeks. It is important to gain familiarity with the chosen method of exercise and its vocabulary. You must invest your time and energy to learn it. There are certain expressions and concepts that are repeated time and again. Your goal is to imprint these phrases into your mind and your body so that the words themselves become movements that infiltrate your workouts.

How long are private sessions ?

Sessions are 55 minutes in length.

What is the difference between Pilates and GYROTONIC®?

Pilates is linear and two-dimensional. It teaches the student how to safely work within the frame of the body. Pilates can be compared to moving on land while GYROTONIC® can be compared to moving in water. GYROTONIC® is three-dimensional, unique for its circling, spiraling and undulating motion patterns which help strengthen all of the body's internal support structures. Both teach you how to move with connection and fluidity to create greater awareness of your body.

Do I develop large muscle with GYROTONIC®?

No. Long lean muscles are developed without adding bulk.

Can I lose weight by taking GYROTONIC®?

In conjunction with a proper diet, you may lose weight. Primarily, you will lose inches, which promotes a lean and graceful appearance.

Is GYROTONIC® a cardiovascular workout?

Once you have gained familiarity with the chosen method and its vocabulary, you will be able to move through those exercises with continual fluidity thus providing you with an aerobic workout.

How can I learn more about becoming a GYROTONIC® instructor or a GYROKINESIS® instructor?

Information regarding the Teacher Training program can be obtained by visiting www.gyrotonic.com.

Can you suggest any books and/or DVD’s to complement my training and further my understanding of GYROTONIC®?

Absolutely! Please visit www.gyrotonic.com for a complete list.