Looking for a way to jazz up your workout routine? The latest craze is karma for your body in the form of a holistic approach to fitness called GyrotonicŪ and GyrokinesisŪ.
For all the details, Amaze sat down for a virtual chat with Kinspirit Studio Director and Master Trainer, Jennifer McCasland Daly, a Gyrotonic Master Trainer, currently in the Gyrokinesis Master Trainer program (to be completed in 2007).
What exactly are GYROTONIC and GYROKINESIS?
GYROTONICŪ is a movement technique based on the principles of dance, yoga, tai chi, and swimming. It is a full body experience that works in a circular and fluid modality. It strengthens muscles, increases flexibility and coordination, and enhances overall mind-body awareness.
It is a technique that focuses on the mobilization of the spine and joints to ease pain and eliminate restrictions in the body. Gyrotonic is performed on equipment with a weight and pulley system. GYROKINESISŪ is the mat class of Gyrotonic. It is performed without any equipment or weights, but rather on stools and mats. Both techniques are most successful when done in conjunction with each other.
How do they differ from other types of exercise?
Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis are different from other techniques for a variety of reasons. One, they create three-dimensional, fluid motions, as opposed to static, linear exercises as most weight resistance programs do. Two, they are ever changing and evolving techniques, so that the client never gets into a boring routine. Three, they address the entire body, while other exercise systems isolate body parts, Gyrotonic is able to work the entire body at all times.
What should someone expect from his or her first session?
Clients feel wonderful after their first sessions. They immediately feel like they have worked their muscles in a healthy way and feel a freedom in their joints. Clients also feel balanced and centered right away. It is often very different from previous activities that clients have experienced, so they are usually very excited and eager to learn more.
How often should you practice for maximum results?
In the beginning, it is important for clients to attend sessions at least twice a week, as they are re-educating the body and it needs reinforcement. By incorporating some Gyrokinesis exercises into a daily routine, clients see results very quickly. I often tell clients that I see quicker results from a student that comes once a week for a private session and does 10 minutes of homework everyday on their own, then I do with the student that come three times a week for a private session and never thinks about it outside of the studio. The more attention the client gives the work, the more results he/she will see.
Since this is new, where can people find a studio in their local area?
Gyrotonic studios are expanding rapidly throughout the country. Go to www.gyrotonic.com to find a studio near you. There are also Gyrokinesis videos available on the site for those who are not close to a studio.
For more information on Jennifer and Kinespirit, please visit www.kinespirit.com
