GYROTONIC® methodology is an exercise system created by Juliu Horvath, an ethnic Hungarian born in Romania. Horvath, who was trained as a ballet dancer, sought asylum in the United States in the 1960s and developed the Gyrotonic system there, after an injured Achilles tendon brought his dance career to a halt. He began to practice yoga, and co-developed a system called "Yoga for Dancers", with Hilary Cartwright, which eventually evolved into Gyrokinesis.

Gyrokinesis exercises allow one to work on the entire body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, right and left sides, right and left twists, and circular as well as all other joint articulation. This approach systematically and gently works the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements. These movements stimulate the body’s internal organs while different corresponding breathing patterns are integrating with the movements. Fluidity is key. Those who practice Gyrokinesis exercises tend to be more relaxed in their daily lives and can move with increased flexibility and ease.

Gyrotonic methodology allows users to stretch and strengthen muscles, while simultaneously stimulating and stengthening connective tissues in and around the joints of the body. These exercises with synchronized breathing patterns enhance aerobic and cardiovascular stimulation and promote neuro-muscular rejuvenation. Gyrotonic Exercises offer complete freedom of movement. The system is fully adjustable and can meet the needs of many people with varying body types, levels of strength and fitness. The circular, spiraling, and undulating movements that characterize the Gyrotonic Movement System® help increase the functional capacity of the spine; contributing to a spherical and three-dimensional awareness, resulting in increased balance.

GYROTONIC® exercises employ movements found in swimming, yoga, gymnastics, and tai chi, using specialized equipment developed by Horvath. The system is intended to improve flexibility and balance as well as muscle strength, and to increase overall flexibility, stability and mobility in joints. It has been compared to and contrasted with Pilates, but the Gyrotonic System offers three dimensional, circular movements,that use specific yogic breathing patterns that cleanse, detoxify and rejuvenated the entire body.

After starting in New York City, Master Trainers and Trainers have established studios in locations across the globe, including San Francisco, Seattle, Rio de Janeiro, Madrid, London, and Paris. It is widely used by dancers, athletes, and in rehabilitation facilities, as well as for general conditioning for all walks of life. (reprinted from gyrotonics.com)