Garuda – the new Pilates

Whilst Pilates has been held in high regard as complementary to dance, there is a new kid on the block. Garuda is complementary to Pilates, and therefore to dance training, using the principles of Pilates but taking the ideology one step further. Many ballet companies and vocational schools employ Pilates as part of dancers’ training, useful for injury prevention, rehabilitation and conditioning: Garuda could now become the popular name.

Garuda too can be performed on machines or through mat-based exercises, focusing on strength, flexibility, coordination, endurance and increasing range of motion for muscle and joints. The method was developed by James D’Silva, drawing on his experience in training in classical and contemporary dance in the UK before working as a dancer, choreographer and teacher throughout Europe and the USA. From his Indian roots, he went on to open a Pilates studio and develop Garuda as a result of using Pilates, yoga and body conditioning as part of his training routine. Ideas from Gyrotonic, Feldenkrais, Tai Chi and Alexander Technique also developed Garuda, informing his body/mind connection.

The philosophy behind Garuda focuses on breath, rhythm, flow and the idea of relaxation within movement, in order to also strengthen and tone muscles, improve structural fitness and promote a meditative sense of calm. It aims to support the recovering body in finding its athletic form, with the results displaying a stronger, leaner body, improved posture and ease of movement in everyday life. Aside from providing a cardiovascular workout, it also focuses the mind in combining relaxation with exercise.

Garuda incorporates mat-work sequences, barre and a versatile exercise apparatus to contribute to rhythm and flow, promoting a new and improved way to isolate muscle groups. The specialised movements are broken down into motions beneficial for those in dance or undergoing a personalised rehabilitation programme, with a focus on transitions in addition to mindfulness, awareness and introspection. Practitioners constantly work to strengthen the joints, with a focus on alignment and precision of movement. For dancers specifically, it can also be used to understand where to activate for movement, benefit from multi-directional stretch, as well as for stability and strength.