Written by Dorene Garvin

A good amount of thought has gone into the development of certain therapeutic exercise systems like yoga, Tai chi, and Pilates, which have become more known to the general public in recent years. One well-designed practice not well known is Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis.

Romanian born Juliu Horvath, in order to stabilize his own body from the after effects of professional dance, created this mindful and gentle system. Gyrotonic exercise is performed on a special machine called the Professional Pulley Tower, also invented by Horvath. A personal trainer guides and adjusts the user for optimal benefit. Gyrokinesis can also be performed as floor exercises done in a group setting. In both cases, the movements are circular, spiraling, undulating, and fun. There is a dance quality that allows the body to explore ones personal range of freedom.

Those over 35 know that joints stiffen with age. Over time, a person’s injury history and habits will develop patterns that are either useful or harmful. What is needed is optimal agility and strength for everyday movement and tasks. Therapeutic exercise of any kind creates new patterns and breaks old unhealthy habits.

A system like Gyrotonic helps the body seek out unhealthy patterns and restores coordination, lessening the chance of injury. The torso explores flexion and extension as the spine ripples up and undulates down in a wave-like fashion. Often, the routine is performed sitting and each exercise is playful and exploratory. Areas that have become thickened and stuck are gently discovered and opened, increasing available range. Since no force is applied, the body finds its own optimal range for that day. The trainer’s gentle guidance ensures good body mechanics and over time, health is restored.

Aging is inevitable and feeling good can be acquired through attention. Effective therapeutic exercise is a big step toward not only a long life, but also a life of less pain, ample energy, and a joyful outlook.