The art of exercise

Her Royal Highness Princess Srirasmi graciously presided over the grand opening of the second phase of her yoga studio known as Sukhoyoga last Thursday and watched a demonstration of “Gyrotonic” a new holistic form of exercise that promotes strength and flexibility.
The yoga studio, initiated by Princess Srirasmi, is dedicated to strengthening the health and overall quality of life of its practitioners. Located behind the Silpacheep 904 store on the property known as Province 904 on Sukhothai Road, it has been offering a valuable service to both royal officials and the general public since 2011.
Due to the overwhelming feedback from its practitioners, the second phase has seen the studio expand from 500 square metres to 800 sqm. The decor is minimal, with light brown hues giving off a warm and relaxing ambience. The spacious premises have high ceilings for a breezier atmosphere, the glass-walled yoga studio offers the exquisite view of the botanical gardens, while facilities such as the waiting area, classrooms and shower rooms are of the
 same standard as the first phase.
Sukhoyoga continues to offer Hot Yoga, Back Therapy, Leg Therapy, Joint Therapy, Flow Yoga, Plus Yoga and Yoga Fly.
The introduction of Gyrotonic celebrates the launch of the second phase. This new exercise technique is another option for yoga fans, and this studio is the first place in Thailand to offer this programme.
Kularat Thaweenuch, yoga and Gyrotonic instructor explains that Gyrotonic comprises of three types of exercise: yoga, Tai-kek, and swimming. “The Gyrotonic is three dimensional movements using weight to strengthen the muscles while applying the Tai-kek breathing technique and yoga and swimming movements,” she says.
“Gyro” literally means circular motions, while “tonic” means “fun in life”. Therefore, the two words put together mean a fun exercise in circular, natural motions, with equipment to train the joints and muscles in a rhythmic manner. The movements are in waves like swimming, dancing, yoga, tai chi and gymnastics and the exercise technique was invented by Juliu Horvath – a Hungarian ballerina and yoga instructor.
Horvath based his method on the octopus, monkey and cat, noticing that these animals have no restrictions in movements. They can move in any direction with control and strength. However, the human body has restrictions, so he invented tools to allow the human body to move freely, and named it Gyrotonic. The special machine helps the body move in circular motions, a signature of Gyrotonic exercise. It is a low-impact exercise as the spring and pulley of the machine supports it. The muscles are strengthened, the joints are more flexible and the backbone is exercised.
 VIP guests, celebrities and the media were all impressed by the Gyrotonic technique and also enjoyed the garden, fresh air, delicious food, and cool music.

  STRETCH IT

  Experience the second phase of Sukhoyoga and gyrotonic at Sukhoyoga Phase 2. It’s located at 904 Sukhothai Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300 (behind the Silpacheep 904 store) and is open daily from 8am to 8.30pm. Call (02) 243 1773-4.