Upward Spiral Studio in Cambridge

I am a musician (violin and piano) and know that all movements in the body are circular, even when playing in a seemingly straight line on the instrument. I was intrigued by Gyrotonic as it focuses on circular movements of the body. So I decided to take Gyrotonic lessons from Martha to learn how to move and use my body more effectively. I mainly worked on the pulley tower which looks a bit like a gym cable machine. Martha is a true master with a detailed knowledge of the body who helps you make numerous adjustments to learn the movements correctly. The sessions have been life-changing in terms of playing music better. They really helped me improve my proprioception (sense of movement, joint position, and muscle activation) of the whole body and not of just the hands. This has helped me play with tremendously more ease and control. I can now sense the slightest unnecessary tension. Also, I can devise numerous movement combinations to create different sounds based on the spine's ability to bend and twist. I also found Gyrotonic very restorative as many of the movements are deep stretches with small weights and traction provided by the instructor. I found them more restorative than passive massages. I highly recommend Gyrotonic to anyone looking to improve their proprioception or restore joint and muscle flexibility. Gyrotonic can be a bit complex to people new to movement studies. So I recommend at least a few private sessions to get started. I also studied with Marjorie and Jess who were also excellent.

Love this studio and am a big fan of Martha's group classes. She gently guides you through a series of movement that add up to a challenging workout. Importantly, she is truly attentive and mixes things up regularly to maintain students' engagement.

Upward spiral studio is FANTASTIC! As a professional dancer and dance teacher, Upward Spiral has provided me with cross training to strengthen and protect my body throughout a rigorous career. I’ve experienced significant improvement in terms of strength, flexibility and coordination since coming to this studio. Martha, the studio owner, is absolutely wonderful - she takes time to understand her clients’ bodies and physical needs and provides encouraging and effective feedback. I highly recommend this studio to those interested in improving their physical health and well being!

I love this studio. I’ve been coming here for two years to help build core and hip strength before and after hip surgery. Really a lovely space and effective classes.

Great studio spacious /clean knowledgeable staff.

After injuries, Gyrotonics with Martha was more effective for my spine health than all the physical therapists, chiropractors and trainers combined. Can not recommend strongly enough.

I absolutely love this studio. Newcomers should note that the entrance is on Bishop Allen road. Turn onto Bishop Allen, walking in the same direction as traffic and it's about half way down the block down a ramp to your left.