Pilates is one of the most popular exercise methods to strengthen your core. A strong core is a solid foundation for strength in the rest of the body. The main benefit of core strength for runners is increased stabilization in the torso. Your core muscles keep your torso upright when you run and reduce “wobbling” when moving your arms and legs and this helps you to better control and maximize the forces you produce while running.
But you can get way more out of Pilates than additional core strength. Pilates corrects muscle imbalances, which helps to reduce the risk of injury. It helps you to awake body awareness, to identify your weakness and encourages proper movement patterns. You learn on which areas you need to focus on to achieve a effective and balanced movement pattern. This reduces the risk to re-injure the same area or overwork something else through compensation.
By keeping your muscles flexible as well as powerful Pilates improves endurance and speed. A strong and balanced body will maintain a proper form even when you start to fatigue. The mixture of strengthening, conditioning, mobility, and balance exercises is the optimal combination to challenge your muscles in all aspects. If you integrate Pilates into your training routine your muscles are in better condition, and you’ll feel less fatigued, sore, and tight after a long run.
Pilates emphasizes balance work and everyone practicing Pilates regularly sees a dramatic gain in balance and have an easier time maintaining it as they age. If you ever tripped on a curb or stumbled over a rock while running, you understand how crucial it is to quickly adapt and center yourself without falling.
Obviously, Pilates is not only beneficial to runners. It improves performance physically and mentally in every sport and fitness activity: e.g., skiing, football, hiking, golf, tennis, cycling, swimming only to mention a couple.
My new Pilates Matwork class for everyone who likes it focused and intense starts this Wednesday in Stapleford.
Time: 7:30 to 8:20 pm Start: 22nd February, Duration 6 week
Location: Jubilee Pavilion Stapleford, CB22 5BQ Cost £60
To book your place: www.ammannbodywork.com. Please get in contact for any questions. Looking forward to seeing you Wednesday evening!