FAQ
How do I prepare for my first session?
As with any training modality, please let me know if you have any physical concerns. If you have physical concerns, you may want to print the pages about GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method and discuss any concerns with your doctor. Many doctors are still unfamiliar with the wonderful benefits of GYROTONIC® method. Make an assessment of your body and what you would like to get from the training so we can address them.
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and bring a pair of socks to your sessions. Drink lots of water after your session and get your fun on!
How much does it cost?
The cost of GYROTONIC® private training is comparable to other private training modalities. Additionally, semi-private sessions in duos and trios are available.
Can I take classes?
In some studios, multiple machines are available for classes. Because of the space requirements for an individual machine only a few studios can offer more than duo or trio sessions. That being said, even if you do train as a duo or trio or in a larger class environment, supplementing with individual sessions facilitates important understanding of the system and greater growth.
How come I’m just hearing about GYROTONIC® now?
GYROTONIC® method has been around for a long time. Its creator, Juliu Horvath, is still alive and creating. Controlled expansion has happened because Horvath has insisted on maintaining a high level of quality control. Only Gyrotonic International can certify a trainer in the GYROTONIC® method.
How is the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method different from Pilates, yoga or other exercise?
Many Pilates trainers are also trained in GYROTONIC®. The back and forth and up and down motion of Pilates works in two dimensions, but the circular and spiraling motion of GYROTONIC® method works in 3 dimensions: up, down, right, left, back, front, top, bottom, inside, outside. Matt Aversa, vice president and COO of the Gyrotonic International Headquarters, says GYROTONIC® method also differs from yoga and Pilates because there’s “no end point in the movements.” Pilates is more linear; yoga is more static; and GYROTONIC® method is both circular and fluid. In fact, Aversa says GYROTONIC® method can actually accelerate advancement in your yoga practice allowing you to get into difficult positions more easily. (I can attest to that; my yoga poses are much better.)
Aversa also points out one way that GYROTONIC® method is different from toning or weight-training work: “In GYROTONIC® method we use resistance to open the body — to leverage rather than to build mass.”
What should I look for in a GYROTONIC® trainer?
A certified GYROTONIC® trainer, in addition to hours of their own, individual training, has taken a 30 hour certified pre-training course, a 60 hour certified foundation training course, 30 hours in apprentice training courses and spent a minimum of 60 hours training clients before they are allowed take their 3 day final examination course for certification. There is only one way to become a certified GYROTONIC® trainer: GYROTONIC® International is the only organization that certifies GYROTONIC® instructors. Additionally, every two years a certified trainer must take a continuing education course in order to maintain their certification.
Is the GYROTONIC® method aerobic? I want a workout.
I can make you sweat and get your heart rate up!
Is it weight bearing?
GYROTONIC® method is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise program for all ages. The movements stimulate all of the biological systems in the body and open and lubricate joints, increase circulation of blood and other fluids throughout the body, strengthening muscles, relieving stress and promoting an overall sense of well-being. It is an ideal therapy for arthritis and joint pain, osteoporosis, tendonitis, sleep apnea, insomnia, spinal problems, foot and hand injuries, neck pain, shoulder injuries, lower back pain and more.
Can I do GYROTONIC® method if I use a cane or a walker?
Yes. The handle unit and pulley tower are fully adjustable for individual physical needs and can provide smooth support for whatever is needed.
How did you learn about GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method?
I came to the GYROTONIC® program through a friend who had studied with a trainer in Boston. As an opera singer, I wanted more support for my singing and was interested in the integrated breath work as well. As someone who is also getting older, I want to maintain my physical capabilities until my last breath and GYROTONIC® method has made me feel that is possible.
YouTube links (showcasing studios worldwide) demonstrating some of the exercises used in the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhhzYbp3w0s&authuser=3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EWrMCE9GBg&authuser=3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7jd_FhBYI8&authuser=3
Idea Fitness Journal article: http://www.ideafit.com/fitness-library/the-gyrotonicreg-and-gyrokinesisreg-system-a-primer
How do I prepare for my first session?
As with any training modality, please let me know if you have any physical concerns. If you have physical concerns, you may want to print the pages about GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method and discuss any concerns with your doctor. Many doctors are still unfamiliar with the wonderful benefits of GYROTONIC® method. Make an assessment of your body and what you would like to get from the training so we can address them.
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and bring a pair of socks to your sessions. Drink lots of water after your session and get your fun on!
How much does it cost?
The cost of GYROTONIC® private training is comparable to other private training modalities. Additionally, semi-private sessions in duos and trios are available.
Can I take classes?
In some studios, multiple machines are available for classes. Because of the space requirements for an individual machine only a few studios can offer more than duo or trio sessions. That being said, even if you do train as a duo or trio or in a larger class environment, supplementing with individual sessions facilitates important understanding of the system and greater growth.
How come I’m just hearing about GYROTONIC® now?
GYROTONIC® method has been around for a long time. Its creator, Juliu Horvath, is still alive and creating. Controlled expansion has happened because Horvath has insisted on maintaining a high level of quality control. Only Gyrotonic International can certify a trainer in the GYROTONIC® method.
How is the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method different from Pilates, yoga or other exercise?
Many Pilates trainers are also trained in GYROTONIC®. The back and forth and up and down motion of Pilates works in two dimensions, but the circular and spiraling motion of GYROTONIC® method works in 3 dimensions: up, down, right, left, back, front, top, bottom, inside, outside. Matt Aversa, vice president and COO of the Gyrotonic International Headquarters, says GYROTONIC® method also differs from yoga and Pilates because there’s “no end point in the movements.” Pilates is more linear; yoga is more static; and GYROTONIC® method is both circular and fluid. In fact, Aversa says GYROTONIC® method can actually accelerate advancement in your yoga practice allowing you to get into difficult positions more easily. (I can attest to that; my yoga poses are much better.)
Aversa also points out one way that GYROTONIC® method is different from toning or weight-training work: “In GYROTONIC® method we use resistance to open the body — to leverage rather than to build mass.”
What should I look for in a GYROTONIC® trainer?
A certified GYROTONIC® trainer, in addition to hours of their own, individual training, has taken a 30 hour certified pre-training course, a 60 hour certified foundation training course, 30 hours in apprentice training courses and spent a minimum of 60 hours training clients before they are allowed take their 3 day final examination course for certification. There is only one way to become a certified GYROTONIC® trainer: GYROTONIC® International is the only organization that certifies GYROTONIC® instructors. Additionally, every two years a certified trainer must take a continuing education course in order to maintain their certification.
Is the GYROTONIC® method aerobic? I want a workout.
I can make you sweat and get your heart rate up!
Is it weight bearing?
GYROTONIC® method is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise program for all ages. The movements stimulate all of the biological systems in the body and open and lubricate joints, increase circulation of blood and other fluids throughout the body, strengthening muscles, relieving stress and promoting an overall sense of well-being. It is an ideal therapy for arthritis and joint pain, osteoporosis, tendonitis, sleep apnea, insomnia, spinal problems, foot and hand injuries, neck pain, shoulder injuries, lower back pain and more.
Can I do GYROTONIC® method if I use a cane or a walker?
Yes. The handle unit and pulley tower are fully adjustable for individual physical needs and can provide smooth support for whatever is needed.
How did you learn about GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method?
I came to the GYROTONIC® program through a friend who had studied with a trainer in Boston. As an opera singer, I wanted more support for my singing and was interested in the integrated breath work as well. As someone who is also getting older, I want to maintain my physical capabilities until my last breath and GYROTONIC® method has made me feel that is possible.
YouTube links (showcasing studios worldwide) demonstrating some of the exercises used in the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® Method:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhhzYbp3w0s&authuser=3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EWrMCE9GBg&authuser=3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7jd_FhBYI8&authuser=3
Idea Fitness Journal article: http://www.ideafit.com/fitness-library/the-gyrotonicreg-and-gyrokinesisreg-system-a-primer