PROGRAMS
Classical Pilates
Named after its German inventor, Joseph H. Pilates (pi-LAH-teez), the technique encompasses more than 500 controlled, precise movements designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles without adding bulk.
These exercises are practiced as designed by Joseph H. Pilates, in the order intended, on all of the specifically designed Authentic Pilates apparatus and on the mat.
The exercises require concentration - working both the body and mind. They focus on "core" muscles - the abdomen, back, and buttocks - together with deep, coordinated breathing. Correct posture and lower risk of injury are two benefits of the regimen.
The Pilates system emphasizes musculoskeletal balance, proper breathing and spinal alignment. This combines control of the abdominals, ease of movement and mental focus.
Joseph H. Pilates' focus was restoring the body to true balance.
The Six Principles of The Classic Pilates Method:
Control
Flow of Movement
Breath
Precision
Centering
Full Range of Motion
As Joseph H. Pilates put it over 70 years ago, "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 session you'll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you'll have a different body."
Gyrotonic
The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® is a holistic approach to movement that is designed to meet the needs of people of all ages and abilities. Some of the benefits of GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® exercises include increased strength and flexibility, renewed energy and vitality and a general sense of calm and wellbeing.
The GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® was specially conceived regarding key principles of gymnastics, swimming, ballet and yoga through which major muscle groups are worked interdependently and in an integrated manner. This system is served by a series of specifically designed exercise equipment, which are built around the human body with all regard to total freedom in movement, no restriction to speed and versatility, and enhances rather than distracts from coordination, strength and flexibility.
GYROTONIC® exercises offer complete freedom of movement. Exercises are performed on the Professional Pulley Tower, and the system is fully adjustable and can meet the needs of many people with varying body types and levels of strength. The even and constant resistance in the handle unit and pulley tower, (through the triple reduction in the pulleys), completely eliminates the jarring that takes place at the beginning and end of exercises performed on conventional exercise equipment, when many injuries occur.
The circular, spiraling and undulating movements that characterize the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® help to increase the functional capacity of the spine, contributing to a spherical and three-dimensional awareness, resulting in increased equilibrium. The motion patterns are natural, turbulence free and pure with no interruption, creating a bridge between contraction and extension through the rotating movement of the joints, resulting in a balanced support system for the skeleton.
Each exercise is synchronized with a corresponding breathing pattern and is performed with either a rhythmic or melodic expression, creating a gentle or vigorous cardiovascular stimulation, depending on the intensity and speed of the execution.
"I want music in my body and poetry in my body, and I want to be skillful without struggle; it has to come without struggle." Juliu Horvath, founder. www.gyrotonic.com
Gyrokinesis
The GYROKINESIS® Method is the core of Juliu Horvath's Method. Requiring only a stool and a mat, the movements are gentle and rhythmic combined with specific breathing patterns and awakening of the senses.
These exercises allow one to work on the entire body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right side, left twist, right twist 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 integrated along with the movements.
Fluidity is the key. Postures are not held for long periods of time. Instead, postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, making exercises appear and feel more like a dance or swimming. www.gyrotonic.com
Studio Consulting, Teacher Training & Mentorship
Melanie Johnson has been a “teacher’s teacher” for over 35 years, beginning first with CEC training programs for fitness professionals. She began offering Pilates teacher training and continuing education workshops based on the Classical Method of Pilates in 2000, formerly for The PhysicalMind Institute and also for Balanced Body.
She is the owner and developer of Pilates Progressions©, offering comprehensive Classical and contemporary Pilates teacher trainings, workshops, and a studio consulting and teacher mentorship program. Since 2000, she has trained, certified and developed hundreds of successful Pilates teachers, studios and programs.
As a client, student, or consulting client of Melanie’s, you will develop clear and focused teaching and business skills that will maximize the Pilates experience for a wide variety of clientele, incorporating all of the Authentic Pilates apparatus, and marketing, development, programming and business skills necessary to develop and grow a successful Pilates program.
Contact Melanie for a complimentary consultation to design a unique program for you, your studio or a specialized training for your teachers.