What is ESSENTRICS?

ESSENTRICS is a fitness program that aims to rebalance the body through simultaneous stretching and strengthening exercises. This concept improves flexibility, posture, and overall body alignment. The program incorporates elements of yoga, Pilates, and ballet and is suitable for people of all fitness levels.

What are the benefits of practicing ESSENTRICS?

Practicing ESSENTRICS can have numerous benefits, including improved flexibility, posture, and strength and a reduced risk of injury. It can also help alleviate tension and stress, improve circulation, and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, ESSENTRICS can be a great way to increase range of motion and mobility, making it beneficial for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Is ESSENTRICS suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, ESSENTRICS is a great way to balance out the body, even for professional athletes or dancers, as its therapeutic qualities are great for injury recovery. For beginners, the movements are simple and easy to follow yet profoundly effective.

How often should I do an ESSENTRICS workout?

Miranda Esmond-White, the creator of ESSENTRICS, recommends at least 30 minutes a day. Miranda has published many books that outline routines that you can do on your own. ESSENTRICS also offers a streaming platform called E-TV, various DVDs, and even YouTube videos by Miranda. These are all fine options, but they are not interactive. Coming to class gives you feedback that you are moving safely and correctly. It is also a way to build a community of like-minded folks looking to improve themselves.

Are there specific equipment requirements for ESSENTRICS?

ESSENTRICS workouts typically do not require any specific equipment, especially external weights, as we use our body weight in the exercises. We also employ the mind and its extraordinary capacity for the imagination to create scenarios that inspire us to move differently. (i.e., imagine a feather in your hand, how about a small stone, what about a brick, maybe that suitcase you overpacked for your vacation.)

However, a yoga mat, towel, pillow, or cushion (I like those rounding travel neck pillows, especially for when we are on the floor lying on one hip). All of these can assist with stretching exercises done on the floor. Recently, I discovered that an extendable tension rod (used for shower curtains) can be a beneficial tool for balance in the standing portions of the class. Equipment recommendations are included in the online class description or confirmation email; if not, please advise me. If you have any questions about something different that might be right for you to use as an aid, please share this with your instructor for any recommendations. We are always looking for simple solutions.

Can ESSENTRICS help with flexibility and mobility?

Yes, ESSENTRICS definitely helps with flexibility and mobility. The exercise routines in ESSENTRICS, explicitly choreographed to address the whole body, will stretch and strengthen the muscles simultaneously, which can lead to improved flexibility and range of motion. Many people have found that regular practice of ESSENTRICS has helped them move more efficiently and with less discomfort. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new fitness routine. Still, ESSENTRICS is a safe and effective way to improve flexibility and mobility.

Are there different types of ESSENTRICS classes available?

I offer classes via Zoom and In-Person Live classes. I also offer classes in various timeframes: 40-minute and 60-minute. The 40-minute classes will be all standing, and the 60-minute classes will start with standing and then transition either to floorwork lying on our yoga mats or working on a chair or ballet barre. Please refer to the class description for more specific details of duration or intensity of the class. Additionally, I can suggest ways to modify the intensity of the class to meet your personal needs.

What should I wear to an ESSENTRICS class?

Wear something comfortable to move in that doesn't distort your shape. ESSENTRICS workouts are done in bare feet, as we want to feel a connection to the ground and liberate our feet from the constraints of shoes.

How does ESSENTRICS differ from other fitness programs?

Essentrics differs from other fitness programs in that it focuses on dynamic stretching and strengthening exercises to rebalance the entire body. It aims to create a toned, lean, and flexible body without the use of equipment. The technique helps to improve posture, increase flexibility, and build long, lean muscles. It's a full-body workout that targets all major muscle groups to keep the body balanced and prevent injury.

Are there any age restrictions for participating in ESSENTRICS classes?

ESSENTRICS is for every age, although it is most common among young adults through seniors.