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Training Ideas, Do’s & Don’ts, Clinical Research & More!
What Is Pilates & How Can It Help Me?
Many people are led to believe that Pilates exercise classes involve lots of abdominal exercises such as ‘the hundred position’, sit ups or v-sits. However, mat based clinical Pilates classes led by a physiotherapist are not all about sit ups and planking. The most effective ways to engage the deep abdominals, improve strength of pelvic muscles and core control are through precise, focused movements involving coordination of the breath, engaging with deep inner muscles, and moving with mindfulness.
Strength vs Stability
When we consistently go to the gym and lift weights, attend a Body Pump exercise class or CrossFit session, often it doesn’t make sense that we can still have pain when we feel strong overall. “I feel really strong, I don’t understand why I have pain,” or “I go to gym four days per week and lift heavy weights but still have a sore back” are common stories from people experiencing pain. A key component to consider when a joint may not be loading optimally is to assess how well the joint is being stabilised and controlled my surrounding soft tissues and muscles, before extra weight or resistance is added. Getting strong and lifting weights may not always be the answer if you don’t have sufficient control of the deeper stabilising muscles to engage, lengthen and contract when required. Let’s take a closer look at Strength vs. Stability and what is more important…