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Benefits of ballet
For yoga and pilates devotees, ballet-inspired Gyrotonic is the new way to get physical.
By Doris Montanera
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Why Gyrotonic?
1. It strengthens, lengthens, tones and increases flexibility. At
the end of a session, you'll feel taller, with more room between your joints. As it works your core through deep breathing and pelvic movement, Gyrotonic results in better posture. Cardio comes from the rhythmic breathing. And because the Gyrotonic machine stretches and strengthens your muscles and the connective tissues of your joints, your body will become more defined and toned.
2. Coordination. "It teaches you how to be an efficient mover," says Nancie Lepore, a certified Gyrotonic Master Trainer in Montréal. It requires the mental and physical dexterity of patting your head and rubbing your stomach at the same time, so increased coordination comes naturally. All the routines are based on circular movements, ensuring major muscle groups are integrated and worked interdependently. National Ballet prima ballerina Greta Hodgkinson got hooked on Gyro-tonic in Italy while dancing The Nutcracker there in December 2003. "I tried it and was really sore afterwards," she says. "It's so good for dancers. It works the torso by bending all parts of the back, letting the body become fluid. And it helps us become more agile and graceful."
3. Rehabilitation. Nickels is working with a client who has a fractured hip, and Gyrotonic may help her avoid hip-replacement surgery. Lepore knows it has helped people with herniated discs, shoulder girdle problems and osteoarthritis. "It depends on the damage and what the injury is," she says. "You might never be free of the scar tissue, but you'll be able to function."
4. De-stressing. New York fashion designer Norma Kamali caught on to Gyro-tonic a few years ago. "My mother was ill. I stayed in town all summer and did pilates, Tai Chi and Gyro-kinesis to work off some of the
tension," she says. "I'm in a trance-like state when it's over." Gyrokinesis is part of Kamali's "wellness nights," when the public can sample classes at her headquarters for free.
5. Mind-muscle connection. The movements force you to concentrate. "You can't be watching the TV monitor or checking out guys," says Nickels. "You have to be conscious of what you're doing and come into yourself." The result is an increased awareness of yourself and your body. You'll feel looser, less tense and more mobile. "Gyrotonic speaks for itself," says Lepore. "The first thing people say after they finish is, 'Oh my God, I feel amazing.'"
GYRO FOR YOU
Where it's offered: Gyrotronic is taught in just over a dozen studios in Canada, primarily in Vancouver, Toronto and Montréal. It's overseen by a certified instructor on a one-on-one basis, although the mat version can be performed in groups. You can buy modified home machines after you've taken at least a dozen classes and know the moves.
Cost and frequency: Prices vary from studio to studio, but generally range from $60 to $90 for each one-hour class.
More info: All certified instructors are listed on the official Gyrotonic website: www.gyrotonic.com
Gear: All you need are comfortable workout clothes and bare feet!
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