Gyrokinetic exercise involves performing a series of continuous, flowing movements that take your joints through their full range of motion. When performed on machines with resistance, this type of exercise is called gyrotonics, according to "Fitness" magazine. The workout was invented by Juliu Horvath, a former professional dancer who used gyrotonic exercises to repair injuries sustained during his career.
Cardiovascular Benefits
According to the "Fitness" article, a gyrotonic workout provides low-impact cardiovascular benefits similar to a brisk walk. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 30 minutes of moderately intense cardiovascular activity, five days per week, for healthy adults younger than 65. "Moderately intense" activity means working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat, but not so hard that you run out of breath or can't talk.
Flexibility Benefits
The yoga-like movements of gyrokinesis challenge practitioners to expand their range of motion and become more flexible. Increasing your flexibility helps your muscles recover more quickly from exercise and can prevent injuries. Different machines target different muscle groups; the Gyrotoner is focused on the shoulder, elbow and wrist, for example, while the jumping-stretching board stretches the torso and the leg-extension unit targets the knees, feet and ankles.
Injury Recovery
Because it takes your joints through a full range of motion, gyrokinetic or gyrotonic exercises may help some people with injuries speed their healing. Quoted in a 2009 Reuters article, Dr. Justine Bernard of Washington, D.C., reported that gyrotonic exercise can decrease scoliosis curvatures, increase bone density in osteoporosis sufferers and help people with low back pain move more freely. Always ask a doctor before beginning any exercise program, especially if you have been injured; you may not be able to perform certain movements, including certain gyrotonic exercises.
