It seems like Harmony Instructor, Melissa McNamara, works out non-stop! Not only is she a Stott Pilates Instructor Trainer, she is also a yoga devotee and avid runner, who recently completed the Chicago Marathon.  But in all her years of teaching and trying new workouts, she had yet to experience Gyrotonic®. She recently gave it a whirl with Harmony Instructor and Gyrotonic® Apprentice, Katie Yohe.  The two sat down to chat after Melissa’s session, to share some insights for all of you who have ever wondered what happens on that “wooden tower in the corner of the studio”:

What did you know about Gyrotonic® going into it? What were you expecting? 

I had seen people do it, but didn’t really understand what was happening.  I knew the movements were more three-dimensional (that’s what I overheard Katrina say to clients when they asked), and was expecting more rotation than I get in Pilates.

How did you feel during your session?

I felt great during and saw parallels between this and the Mind-Body Centering work I had done in the past.  I made some good discoveries about where I was holding tension, especially doing the hamstring work.  I always thought it would be like Pilates feet in straps, but it’s really not.  And I loved the stuff at the end (Upper Body Openings) to get more freedom of movement in my shoulders.

How about after?

I taught an Xtend Barre® class immediately after and felt like I was swimming! I want more!

Any suggestions or words of wisdom for a client’s first Gyrotonic® workout?

Go in with an open mind and heart.  Mind body workouts are always confusing at first, but create the most benefits for our bodies in the long-run.

What would you say to clients who might worry that Gyrotonic® is “not enough of a workout”?

It’s a perfect compliment to the faster paced classes, because it really requires focus and centering.  Our bodies need balance, and finding new ways to move not only opens our bodies to greater change, but expands our mind-body connection. Developing greater awareness can help you find greater challenges and connections in the other workouts you do as well.

Can Pilates and Gyrotonic® be friends?

Yes! Besties! : )

Interested in trying Gyrotonic® at a discounted rate? Call or email for details about how you can take advantage of our special offer, only available January 10 – 22!