Many clients want to know the difference between Pilates and Gyrotonic exercise systems. Learn about the differences and how both systems are applied to both our rehabilitation and fitness programs.
Differing from other forms of physical movement and therapy, The Gyrotonic Method focuses on rotational multidirectional movement designed to mobilize the body’s energy system and release areas of restricted flow. It is particularly useful in the treatment of spinal injuries and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and for individuals with chronic neck and back pain, sciatica, shoulder impingement, injuries from car accidents, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, repetitive stress injuries, and performance and sports injuries. We find that Gyrotonic movements increase flexibility and strength. By increasing the functional capacity of the body in a natural and unforced way, it promotes a balanced flow of energy, and clearer perception and senses. Recognizing that what our clients really want is to experience a pain-free lifestyle, both Pilates and Gyrotonic movement systems seek to prevent and eliminate musculoskeletal pain by restoring the body to its maximum functionality and most efficient state.
Using Pilates, an exercise regime first developed for rehabilitation in the early 20th century, clients work on strengthening the muscles from the inside out. Layers of muscles in the torso are trained to protect the lower back, which allows the body to perform movements with ease and fluidity.
There’s a big difference between teaching The Gyrotonic Method or Stott Pilates as a form of exercise and using it as a form of therapy like we do at Blossoming Lotus Gyrotonic & Pilates. The principles of both Pilates and Gyrotonic exercise are awesome for rehabilitation, but if they aren’t used in conjunction with proper therapy techniques, it could aggravate an injury. That’s why having an instructor (who is also a therapist) trained in rehabilitation therapy is essential. We have worked with many clients who have tried traditional physical therapy at other facilities and met with limited success. Pilates and Gyrotonic-based rehabilitation therapy provides total conditioning that exceeds standard calisthenic, isometric, or isokinetic exercises. By putting the emphasis on balancing the muscular structure, clients will experience more joint stability and mobility, and more freedom of movement. The result is that clients can eliminate pain, improve function, and prevent the chronic symptoms of many problems, including whiplash and osteoporosis.
When working with a rehabilitation therapy focus, we recommend sessions at the studio two or three times a week. Most of our clients do sessions in both systems. Upon request, we will also provide individualized home programs based on specific needs. Clients often learn Gyrokinesis exercises and core activation exercises, which use only a mat and stool, to reinforce the home exercise regime. In our studio, most rehabilitation clients begin with Pilates and gravitate to the Gyrotonic equipment, which includes The Pulley Tower, Gyrotoner, Archway, Leg Extension Unit and Jump Stretching Board. Once clients experience the wide array of movements on all the Gyrotonic Specialized Equipment, they can feel the difference in how much flexibility and strength they can get. As the benefits of Pilates in rehabilitation become increasingly apparent, so, too, will the positive effects of Gyrotonic movement. Spinal mobility is quick to progress using the Gyrotonic equipment, yet we also emphasize that Pilates is often a permanently effective tool because it strengthens the entire body and its core musculature.
The goal is to help our clients complete the rehabilitative portion of therapy and move on to our fitness-based version of Pilates and Gyrotonic that allows them to remain pain-free and enjoy optimum musculoskeletal health.
Teaching The Gyrotonic Method is our life's work. We are the only fully equipped and licensed Gyrotonic studio for a 50 miles radius! The Method was intended to be taught on all of the equipment (not just the Pulley Tower). We've spent years studying on all of the Gyrotonic Equipment (and higher levels of the work) with the top Master Trainers in the method! We blend this training into our vast education from Medical Massage School, Manual Therapy Training, and Stott Pilates (we've been trained by the top Physical Therapist with Stott for years). We pride ourselves on helping our clients to not only attain their goals, we also help our clients learn how to keep their mind/body/spirit strong for aging gracefully and/or regaining mobility after injury or surgery.
What we do: A Gyrotonic session gives your body the organic movement it craves to flourish and thrive. With The Gyrotonic Method you have complete freedom of movement in all planes of motion. This method teaches the body to move with fluidity, ease and builds refined strength. The Gyrotonic Method is performed on unique hand-made equipment designed to allow for full range of motion. Holistic Bodywork addresses the often root causes of pain with sessions focused on structure and freeing "issues in the tissues."
Although originating in the dance community over 35 years ago, GYROTONIC® exercise is accessible to everyone. This method effectively works the entire body through spiraling, circular, and rhythmic movements with corresponding breathing patterns, and is designed to complement whatever you love doing.
Laura & Steve also combine Gyrotonic exercise with their Stott Pilates and Manual Therapy sessions to reeducate the body into working harmoniously and in balance.
Who are sessions at Blossoming Lotus Gyrotonic & Pilates for? Everyone!
Steve and Laura work with individuals in all stages of life. Sessions are highly adaptable and customizable for all levels of wellness and fitness, from those in a wheelchair or with limited mobility to professional athletes looking to enhance their performance. Are you:
Why train in Gyrotonic ? We tax our bodies every day, more than we realize. We need to give back to our bodies, strengthen our mind/body connection, and bring restoration to ourselves. How? The answer is through Holistic Bodywork, Pilates and Gyrotonic Exercise! Book your first session and you'll understand why we have such limited availability. (We are often booked several weeks in advance!) Your body is already thanking you.
We are happy to offer Private, Duet and Trio Circuit Lessons in both the Gyrotonic® Method. and Stott Pilates, along with personalized sessions in Holistic Bodywork to enhance your movement experience.
MaryLou
