PILATES FOR RUNNERS

  The Basics

Pilates will help to reduce the above problems which is also the reason why many physicians and physical therapists refer runners to Pilates for the above ailments.

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Pilates Benefits for Runners

· Correct breathing is taught during classes as a strong respiratory systems can improve running

· Better breathing mean more oxygen for your muscles which equals more stamina

· Pilates creates uniformed muscle development

· It serves as efficient cross training by working all muscle groups

· Pilates emphasizes awareness of good posture and the significance of a strong core

Running involves the utilization of large power generating muscles such as the gluteal, hamstrings, quadriceps and hip flexors. These muscles propel the body forward and are able to generate speed, power and sustain substantial aerobic effort for long durations of time. The utilization of these muscles, and their ability to push the body for long periods of time at high speeds, is increased when the skeleton is stable. Large muscles are not built to stabilize the hips and spine. But if the small stabilizing muscles are not strong enough to hold the spine in correct alignment, the large muscles try to align and support the skeleton which decreases biomechanical efficiency. This in turn can slow the runner down, decrease their endurance and aerobic capacity or over time can lead to repetitive strain or chronic injuries.  

At PilatesCircle we emphasize working on the small stabilizing muscles that hold the skeleton in the correct alignment. The exercises can target all the joints of the body. Often we think of Pilates as only working the abdominal muscles which are important, however, the exercises can also target hips, knees and ankles to ensure that the joints are in proper position to transfer the forces that the body experiences during running. If these small muscles, which Pilates exercises target, can do their job properly then the large muscles will not try to take over and they will be able to generate the power and speed required.  

Pilates will also provide a mind-body connection that the runner can integrate in their running. The small muscles need to be trained and are as important as the large muscles that are targeted in hill repeats, intervals and distance runs. When the runner can fire the small muscles it can help alleviate the pain that comes from over training or poor bio-mechanics.

PilatesCircle instructors will train runners how to engage the core musculature to add mileage without the pain, as well as increasing the focus and awareness of working the proper muscles throughout the run as they begin to fatigue.