Techniques
Learn about the Gyrotonic®, Gyrokinesis®, pilates, Nia® and yoga techniques and training offered by Gyrotonic® Ann Arbor and The Movement Center.
Schedule a class today! If you're unsure of what system might best fit your personal goals, feel free to contact us to discuss your concerns and interests with a trainer.
Gyrotonic®
Sharing elements with Kundalini yoga, swimming, dance, gymnastics, and tai chi, Gyrotonic® methodology is a system comprised of fluid, rhythmic movements, and specific breath patterning.
The spiraling, expansive movements both strengthen and mobilize the spine and all the body's joints, stimulate the nervous system, strengthen and lengthen the muscles, and release tension from the body, as well as providing cardiovascular stimulation.
Gyrotonic® movements develop overall fitness and promote good health, as well as creating a longer, leaner, toned appearance.
You'll get strong, toned, and gain greater mobility without getting bulky. If you've explored movement through yoga or pilates training you'll find Gyrotonic® work a great next step in developing greater body awareness and physical ability.
If you're new to body-mind training Gyrotonic® lessons can also be a great place to start your exploration. Gyrotonic® training can be made appropriate for any fitness level. Even those who have had neck and back pain with other exercise can benefit from the specialized "therapeutic applications" work.
Gyrokinesis®
This system, derived from what was originally called "Yoga for Dancers" and from which the Gyrotonic® work evolved, is a great way to realize all the benefits of the Gyrotonic® work, but without equipment and in a group setting.
In Gyrokinesis® classes fluid, rhythmic, spiraling movements are done seated on stools, standing, and on the floor. The work can be adapted to just about any fitness level.
This system is great for people who travel, or who are looking for a program they can practice at home, since all you need is a chair and a mat or soft floor.
We advise taking a few private Gyrotonic® or Gyrokinesis® sessions before taking group classes.
This work may be very different from what you may have done before. It's good to have an understanding of some basic concepts before jumping into the group class.
The effect this work has on the body can be very profound, so we hope you'll give it a try for several classes. It will change the way you think about your body!
Pilates
Feel better in 10 sessions, Look better in 20 sessions, and have a new body in 30!
Pilates is a system of exercises designed to create balance between strength and flexibility, develop a taller, more balanced posture, and release muscular tension, all while toning the muscles for a healthy body and appearance.
Pilates training is focused on correct breathing and execution of form and on the development of the core muscles.
People who train properly in pilates find their abdominals and backs get toned and strong and often stand and look taller. Pilates is a great way to tone without getting bulky.
Our pilates trainers have taken the rigorous STOTT Pilates training program, which includes extensive hours of apprentice teaching, as well as training in anatomy, rehabilitation, and special populations.
With over 500 traditional exercises, and many newly adapted exercises, you'll find there's plenty to keep you challenged, but always a modification or alternative movement to make your workout safe and appropriate for your body.
How Do I Choose Pilates or Gyrotonic?
Both Pilates and Gyrotonic® have a focus on core strength, and increase flexibility, balance, and coordination. Both can be taught privately or in a group setting, with or without equipment.
Pilates is a two-dimensional, linear technique, focusing on isolation of muscular groups.
Its primary focus is on the muscles. Pilates equipment utilizes spring resistance, so you're working against the tension in a linear direction.
Gyrotonic® movement is comprised of three dimensional, more circular movements using the entire body at all times. Gyrotonic® equipment is a weight and pulley system, which provides both resistance and assistance in the movement, all while encouraging a decompression of the joints.
While there is still focus on the muscles, Gyrotonic® also focuses on the fascia, skeletal system, and nervous system. It provides training in full mobility of the joints, and spine. Additionally, there is also a focus on the energetic aspects of the body.
Nia®
Nia® is a mind-body-spirit fitness and lifestyle practice. Through expressive movement- The Body's Way- The Nia Technique® empowers people to achieve physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well being.
Yoga
The ancient art of yoga is a harmonizing system of movement and breath for development of body, mind, and spirit. Regular yoga practice leads to a sense of peace, well being, and physical health.
* Gyrotonic®, Gyrotonic® & Logo, and GYROKINESIS® are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic® Sales Corp. and are used with their permission.
