GYROTONIC® method is one of the most modern training systems, which consists in modules of exercises based upon the concept of multi-dimensional and spherical movement. It was invented at the beginning of the 1980s in the United States by dancer Juliu Horvath. He not only tried and succeeded in repairing the bodily injuries that he sustained as a professional dancer using these new methodologies, but he also sought to create a system of exercises that anyone could perform, regardless of age or state of health. Gyrotonic® principles embrace key elements also found in yoga, dance, swimming and martial arts. It works systematically and softly on joints and muscles by means of undulating and rhythmical exercises in which no part of the body remains inactive: the entire joint system, as well as the organs and tonic muscle structures, are involved. Gyrotonic® movements focus special attention on increasing functional ability of the spinal column, which becomes much less vulnerable to injuries. Furthermore, it reduces the possibility of suffering from stress or micro-traumas, giving one's physical constitution extraordinary flexibility and capabilities. Corresponding breathing patterns are engaged during the performance of the exercises, thereby increasing coordination, endurance and aerobic activity. Thanks to increasing attention from the international medical and scientific community, Gyrotonic methodology is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world.

"GYROTONIC exercises taught me how to prevent injuries, and has given me a deeper understanding of how everything works together. I have incorporated the exercises into my daily schedule. They are the first things I do every morning, and they prepare me both physically and emotionally for the rest of the day. "
Dena Abergel, New York City Ballet

"I believe that these coordinated movements have a beneficial prophylactic effect against low back weakness and pain, and that they can be successfully integrated into a physical rehabilitation program."
Dr. Frank Moore, M.D.

PILATES The Pilates Method represents a unique approach to exercise that develops body awareness, improving and changing the body's postural and alignment habits and increasing flexibility and ease of movement. .
In 1912 Joseph Pilates lived in England working as a circus performer, boxer and self-defense instructor. During World War I, he was interned with other German nationals and it was during this time that he further developed his technique of physical fitness, designed for a confined space, by teaching his fellow internees. Pilates emigrated to the USA in the early 1920's opening a 'body-conditioning studio' with his wife Clara in New York City in 1926. The studio featured the apparatus that he designed to enhance his rehabilitation work. Very quickly he became the best-kept secret in New York. Word of mouth traveled and everyone came to Joe's - from dance legends Ruth St. Denis, Ted Shawn, Jerome Robbins, George Balanchine and Martha Graham to actor Jose Ferrer and author Christopher Isherwood. Today it is a sought after form of exercise throughout the world.

At Equilibria we teach the original method developed by Joseph Pilates. The most important element of our philosophy is that our clients take the method home with them, using it in their daily lives. Our lessons allow the client to get the most from the machines in just one hour. We work one-on-one in order to satisfy the client from the very first lesson. Pilates is a progressive method, allowing the client to see progress in a very short time. Soon, our clients find themselves performing movements they never imagined they'd be able to do! We give concentrated individual attention in our lessons, working with no more than two clients at a time.

"I must be right. Never an aspirin. Never injured a day in my life.
The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They'd be happier."
Joseph Hubertus Pilates, in 1965, age 86

WHERE WE ARE

Equilibria is conveniently located in the heart of Rome's historic center, just steps away from Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, at Salita dei Crescenzi, 30.

Open Monday through Friday, 8 am - 8 pm; Saturday, 8 am - 2 pm
Reservations are necessary.
Call 06 681 34415 or email equilibria_roma@yahoo.com




BIOGRAPHIES

Patricia Fajardo is a native of Costa Rica, the former General Manager of one of the country's principal health and fitness chains and a personal fitness trainer as well as a spinning instructor. She is Certified Pilates Instructor, working in New York City with Michael Frizke and Ton Voogt at Authentic Pilates and certified in Power Pilates-New York, which she studied under Bob Liekens.

Francesco Patrizi was born in Rome. He was a swimming and water polo competitor in his early years, before becoming a Certified Gyrotonic® Instructor, certified in two of the five Gyrotonic® machines, the Pulley Tower and the Leg Extension. He is also a Certified Power Pilates instructor.

Together, Patricia and Francesco update their training practices regularly, attending seminars several times a year in Europe and the United States.