By Tad Stearn
Walking into Aliyah Studio, a GYROTONIC® fitness studio in Capitola, one immediately feels a sense of calm and tranquility. The space is warm and inviting, finished with natural materials, wood floors, and subtle lighting. Large pieces of figurative art and photography adorn the walls, while dog beds for Apple, Aliyah’s beloved Bernedoodle, add to the mellow, welcoming vibe.
But this is no gallery or day spa. The unique equipment at the center of the room makes clear that this is a place for mindful physical training and healing movement. “I want everybody to walk out of the studio feeling better than when they came in,” says Aliyah. “If they’re feeling bad, they’ll feel better when they leave—both emotionally and physically.”
Aliyah Janna
Aliyah began teaching movement over 20 years ago in Los Angeles beginning with her love for yoga—first as a practitioner and later as an instructor. An active lifestyle over the years which included dance, horseback riding, hiking, yoga and skiing eventually led to some physical therapy where Aliyah was introduced to Pilates. The results were so positive that she became a certified Pilates instructor.
In 2008, during her Pilates training, Aliyah discovered the GYROTONIC® Method. Captivated by its fluid, restorative movements, she immersed herself in the practice and soon became a certified teacher. Before long, many of her Pilates clients transitioned into Gyrotonic work as well. “Like me, once people become accustomed to the method, that’s all they want to do.”
The GYROTONIC® Method (equipment-based) and GYROKINESIS® (done on stools or mats) were developed in the 1980s by Romanian-born Juliu Horvath, a principal dancer with the Romanian National Ballet and later the Houston Ballet. After career-ending injuries, Horvath created “Yoga for Dancers”—the foundation of Gyrokinesis—and later designed the pulley tower and other equipment that evolved into today’s Gyrotonic Expansion System, now practiced by more than 13,000 trainers in over 80 countries. Notable Gyrotonic practitioners include Sting, Lady Gaga, tennis champion Andy Murray, and world-class surfer Kelly Slater.
The Gyrotonic Method is a unique movement system designed to move the body beyond its limitations. Its spiraling, three-dimensional movements flow naturally, building balance, strength, and flexibility without jarring or compression. The sequences help prevent aggravating old injuries while supporting healing and longevity. “I can’t say enough about the system,” says Aliyah. “I’m passionate about it. The natural, flowing movements make it very enjoyable and applicable to real life. Clients are able to build a stronger core, strengthen their muscles and gain more flexibility. The results are significant.”
Aliyah enjoys working with a range of clients. This includes people who want to rehabilitate chronic pain or injuries or those who are simply interested in maintaining mobility and vitality for a higher quality of life.
Gyrotonic exercise is very effective due to its adaptability. The equipment can be tailored to each person’s body type and ability. “Clients get sessions completely customized to their needs—because every body is different,” Aliyah explains. She works with people of all ages and conditions, from those managing back pain to clients with Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis. One surfer who thought he’d never ride again is now back on the waves.
Her clients tend to stay with her for years, most coming twice a week, some even more. Aliyah describes herself as a “movement educator” rather than just an instructor, teaching core principles of safe and effective movement. “There’s a correct way to move, and that’s how you prevent injuries. My most basic goal is for clients to build or maintain muscle mass and flexibility throughout the body.”
While other studios may incorporate Gyrotonic equipment, Aliyah believes hers is the only studio in Santa Cruz County dedicated solely to the method. She considers herself a “Gyrotonic purist,” seeing the practice not as an end but as a way to enhance life outside the studio. “What you do in here makes you better at what you do out there,” she says. “For some, that means sports performance. For others, it’s being able to pick up their grandkids or enjoy the little things that matter most. I love helping make that possible.”
Aliyah is certified in Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis, Pilates, yoga, and meditation. Aliyah Studio is located just one block from Gayle’s Bakery in Capitola. Consultations and sessions are available by appointment.
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Aliyah Studio
716 Capitola Avenue, Suite F
Capitola, CA 95010
831.915.6069 | [email protected]
TOP PHOTO: Aliyah Studio with GYROTONIC® fitness equipment.