In a column for The Plain Dealer, Zachary Lewis shares his experience with the Slavic-origin discipline, Pravilo. Despite juggling roles as a husband, father, homeowner, and journalist, he found the Pravilo machine surprisingly comfortable to use. Contrary to its unusual appearance, he describes the experience as enjoyable and envisions incorporating it into his routine for building significant strength.
Pravilo serves as a physical training method aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and overall physical performance. Originating in Ucrania during the 6th and 7th centuries, it was initially developed to prepare warriors for battle by addressing both physical and mental aspects. The system involves the use of bars and dumbbells suspended between wooden arches, allowing practitioners to float in the air and execute full 360° rotations
Those who practice it are suspended in the air, held by ropes, to strengthen and/or alleviate pains. Thus, one can engage in its two levels: the therapeutic and the athletic. On one hand, the athletic aspect aims to tone, strengthen, build muscle mass, burn fat, and enhance endurance. In contrast, its therapeutic counterpart involves relaxing all muscles and stretching the body through its own weight, aiding in the treatment of ailments such as scoliosis, hernias, protrusions, muscle contractions, tensions, and so on.
In a more spiritual sense, practitioners find themselves suspended in the air, connected to the ethereal realm through the gentle support of ropes. This practice offers two distinct paths: one towards physical prowess and the other towards healing. The athletic pursuit seeks to sculpt the body, enhancing its strength and endurance, while the therapeutic journey focuses on releasing tension and restoring balance to the body and spirit. Both paths intertwine, guiding individuals towards a harmonious union of mind, body, and soul.
