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If you’ve ever had a 1:1 EquipmentPilates session, you already know how transformative mindful movement can be. Strengthening, lengthening, aligning. Pilates has earned its rightful place as a staple in the world of smart exercise.
But what about GYROTONIC®?
While less well-known, the Gyrotonic Method is gaining momentum in the world of wellness, high-performance sport and rehabilitation. This fluid, three-dimensional movement system offers benefits that beautifully complement Equipment Pilates and can unlock a whole new relationship with your body.
“I love my Gyrotonic sessions with John. No week is the same. John varies stretch and mobility exercises with balance and strength training and encourages me to try more advanced postures. This full body exercise has not only restored my shoulder mobility but I also no longer suffer from aching joints.” - Carolien
So, what’s the difference? And more importantly, which one is right for you?
The similarities: strength, alignment & longevity
At their core, both equipment-based Gyrotonic and Pilates focus on building a stronger, more mobile and resilient body from the inside out.
• Both use controlled, low-impact movement that supports joint health and muscular balance.
• Both engage the core muscles, improve postural awareness and support rehabilitation and injury prevention.
• Both systems use specialist equipment to guide the body through movement with resistance, support and precision.
Whether you’re 18 or 80, these are methods that meet you exactly where you are and grow with you.
The differences: flow vs. form
Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates is known for its precision and structure. Using equipment like the Reformer, Cadillac and Wunda Chair, Pilates strengthens the body with a focus on alignment, stability and control. It’s especially effective for core strengthening and postural correction.
In contrast, Gyrotonic, created by former ballet dancer Juliu Horvath, is built around circular, spiralling movements that mimic the way the human body is naturally designed to move. Using specialised machines like the Gyrotonic Pulley Tower, movements feel more like a flowing dance: spiralling, undulating and expanding. There’s a deep focus on spinal mobility, joint decompression and breath-guided motion.
Where Pilates refines and defines, Gyrotonic opens and liberates.
“Following a stroke I was introduced to Gyrotonic with Healthhaus. The periods extend for 45 mins. Since starting my course my body has improved and I can now deal with problems I thought were beyond my reach. The knowledge imparted by John has been invaluable. Well recommended.” - Mr I
The experience:
In a Pilates session, you’ll experience targeted activation: deep abdominal work, pelvic stability and shoulder control. You may feel lengthened, more upright and more connected through your centre.
In a Gyrotonic session, you’ll feel like your spine is being rehydrated and your joints are gently opening. There’s a wave-like quality to the movement patterns that leaves you feeling fluid, aligned and taller, with a sense of calm, grounded energy.
Clients often describe Gyrotonic as “moving meditation” or “like swimming in air”, while Pilates feels like a deep inner workout that builds intelligent, functional strength from the core outward.
Who it’s for: (Hint: everyone!)
• If you’re active and want to enhance mobility, prevent injuries or counterbalance high-impact training, both methods are a perfect match.
• If you’re dealing with stiffness, chronic pain or injury, Gyrotonic’s gentle decompression and multi-planar movement can be profoundly healing.
• If you're over 50 (or even over 80) and want to stay mobile, upright and strong, the adaptability of both systems - especially in a 1:1 format - is unparalleled.
Many of our clients at Healthhaus use both Pilates and Gyrotonic as part of their regular movement routine, combining the stability and strength of Pilates with the freedom and flow of Gyrotonic for a balanced, body-loving practice.
“About five years ago I had a serious accident falling off a boat. I lost confidence in my body and what I could do. John has given me renewed strength and confidence to sail again - invaluable.
5 star to John and 5 star too for the receptionist who introduced me to John.” - FG
Gyrotonic - the start of a new love affair?
If you’ve never heard of Gyrotonic, you’re not alone, it’s still a well kept secret in many parts of the fitness and wellness world.
But once people try it, they often fall in love.
Whether you’re a seasoned mover or just starting your wellness journey, Gyrotonic offers a way to connect to your body in a whole new dimension. The spirals, arcs and wave-like sequences invite your body to move with grace, strength and space.
Experience the magic for yourself with 1:1 guidance tailored exactly to your needs. Our experienced instructor, John, has been using Gyrotonic for almost 20 years and it’s helped him maintain excellent movement through his 60sand 70s.
Read more about John's story here
Ready to feel the difference?
Book a 1:1 Gyrotonic taster session today and learn how this method can support your body, your goals and your wellbeing - for today and long into the future.
We recommend pairing Gyrotonic with Pilates or strength training for optimal results.
➡️To book your Gyrotonic taster session, please email john@healthhaus.co.uk or pop in to The Movement Studio on your next visit to the club.
“I started Gyrotonic on the recommendation of friends as part of my rehabilitation after bi-lateral hip replacement and I have been extremely impressed with the rapid improvement in my overall flexibility. John is extremely knowledgeable and friendly and I am a convert to the benefits of Gyrotonic" - Nigel
“I have enjoyed the gentle stretching and flowing exercises of Gyrotonic for many months. It has been especially beneficial for my rehabilitation since having left foot reconstruction surgery and then a torn rotator cuff to my right shoulder. Each week John prepares and tailors exercises to my needs and abilities, avoiding pain and encouraging progressive and healing and increasing muscle strength, range of movement and flexibility. Grateful thanks.” - Lynda
