Gyrotonics: A Hybrid Exercise

The practice of Pilates is one of the most popular forms of exercise. It teaches participants balance, flexibility, and strength. Through a series of poses the participant is challenged to work with their body, not against it, to get the ultimate work out. As a Pilates-lover, I recently heard of a new form of exercise, derived from Pilates, called Gyrotonics.

This new hybrid exercise is called Gyrotonics. Gyrotonics combines positions from many different types of exercise from tai chi to gymnastics. The practice of Gyrotonics requires the special Gyrotonic Expansion System, which is basically a system of weights and cables that aid in helping to build muscle. The poses that are done with the Gyrotonic system are to be practiced with special breathing patterns in order to capitalize on the aerobic and cardiovascular stimulation while stretching and strengthening the muscle.

The Gyrotonic system is also supposed to help strengthen connective tissue and joints throughout the body through the use of weights. With so much exercise equipment available like the Total Gym, why not have one for Pilates? Over 60 exercises can be performed with the Gyrotonic Expansion System, which sells for $345.

Only time will tell if this form of exercise will gain popularity like Pilates has, but chances are that it won't. Although, it is a good idea and it will help many Pilates-enthusiasts who want to tone up, the thing I love about Pilates is that it is so basic. The great thing about Pilates is that all I need is myself; I can do it practically anywhere. Pilates is a personal experience that gives me time to reflect and relax while exercising and promoting my health. Pilates offers a peaceful work out that simply cannot be replicated when machinery is involved.

It's all about how far I feel comfortable pushing myself. When weights are added, I think that it stops being a personal relaxation time, and starts being an exhausting workout. It seems that Gyrotonics has taken relatively inexpensive forms of exercise (yoga, gymnastics, tai chi, etc.) and put a price tag on them. I'm not saying that it is a bad idea, but I think the convenience and cost of such a system will have many people ignoring the concept altogether. I have yet to hear any personal experiences with the Gyrotonic Expansion System, and chances are, I won't be hearing any first-hand experiences any time soon. As a Pilates-lover, my opinion is that this is one fad that will die out soon.

Works Cited

GYROTONIC Methodology. Online. 18 Feb 2008.