Merrithew International, Inc., a Pilates education and equipment provider, acquired Gyrotonic to combine the two mind-body practices.
Terms were not disclosed.
Created by Juliu Horvath, Gyrotonic uses pulley-based weight machines that blend the principles of yoga, dance, tai chi, and gymnastics to increase flexibility, strength and joint mobility. Its sister method, Gyrokinesis, is practiced on a mat and stool without heavy equipment, focusing on functional strength and releasing body tension. The methods are practiced in studios and wellness centers globally.
The methods will join Merrithew’s lineup of programs, which includes Stott Pilates, Zen-Ga, Total Barre, and Halo Training.
Merrithew said the addition of the Gyrotonic organization strengthens its “ability to serve instructors, studios and wellness professionals with an expanded portfolio of education, training and equipment rooted in whole-body movement.”
Founded in 1988, Merrithew reports it “has trained over 90,000 instructors in more than 135 countries and also manufactures a wide range of Pilates equipment and fitness accessories.”
“This is an incredibly meaningful moment for Merrithew and the broader mindful movement community,” said company CEO Jim Heidenreich. “The addition of Gyrotonic expands Merrithew’s global reach, deepens our movement education portfolio, and reinforces our long-term vision of changing lives through mindful movement. We are honored to support the continued growth of the Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis methods, while preserving the philosophy, education standards, and community that have defined the organization since its founding.”
Image courtesy Merrithew
