The Difference Between Gyrotronics, Pilates and Yoga
Gyrotronics, Pilates and Yoga, while similar, are exercise and fitness systems that focus on using the human body properly, and efficiently getting rid of bad habits (which everyone develops over time). A lot depends on the teacher also. All three focus on using the human body properly, and efficiently, and getting rid of bad habits (which everyone develops over time). Yoga, depending on the type of yoga, also focuses on the mental connection between mind and body and is good for reducing stress. Breathing is also stressed. Pilates is like "western-ized" yoga, in that it approaches it from a biological and medical perspective, less mental, and focuses more on strengthening the "core", or torso muscles, which includes the abdomen and back muscles. There are mat exercises which require no equipment, then there are exercises that include a ring, a ball, or a bench, then there are large, expensive pieces of equipment (such as the cadillac and the reformer). Gyrotronics uses a machine with pulleys and gears to give resistance to the motions included in yoga and pilates. It focuses on fluid motion, not "up and down" type motions like weight lifting, and incorporates breathing and the "core" muscles in all exercises. They all reduce stress and are great for posture and avoiding or improving back problems. I think Pilates is best for improving abdominal strength, but good instructors will focus on that in all three. A little more about Tyrotronics as it is a newer exercise system: Gyrotonics (sometimes spelled Gyrotronics) is one of the newer exercise systems to enter the mind/body fitness arena. Developed by Julio Horvath, the method combines elements of Kundalini yoga, gymnastics, swimming, ballet, tai chi and resistance training - and is a perfect complement to Pilates workouts. Focusing on three dimensional, circular, energizing movements, Gyrotonics has been referred to as "yoga in motion", "yoga with resistance" and "the next big thing". Central to Gyrotonics is a unique piece of exercise equipment known as the Gyrontonic Expansion System", a specially designed wooden machine with rotational discs and weighted pulleys for variable controlled resistance. Whereas most exercise machines work in an unnatural linear manner, this piece of equipment works the muscles, ligaments and joints in a circular, fluid manner, simultaneously stretching and strengthening the body without significant exertion. Each exercise flows smoothly through flexion and extension, contraction and expansion, working from the spine out to the extremities to build internal and external strength. These subtle spiralling and twisting motions are combined with rhythmic breathing and conscious body awareness for a revitalizing mind/body workout. Gyrotronics can be approached as a slow, gentle, restorative experience or sped up for a cardiovascular challenge. All this improves flexibility, muscle tone, joint articulation, range of motion, stamina, balance, blood circulation and core strength. - Source: By Tendo Magazine
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Source: eMaxHealth and Various Sources on Apr 08 2008 10:27:05 |