Run Faster & Further with Less Chance of Injury
Many running enthusiasts began running as a cost effective means to condition their body & lose weight in the process. Others have a more specific performance goal in mind. While running is an excellent choice to enhance cardiovascular conditioning, it is also one of the most demanding forms of exercise for the joints. The high impact nature of running can lead to a variety of injuries, whether it is structural (bone fractures, heel spurs, dislocation etc), muscular (strains, sprains etc), or myofascial (soft tissue damage, plantar fascitis, achilles tendon issues etc). Pilates and a variety of other mind body modalities such as Yoga, the Franklin Method, Feldenkrais, can assist the runner in addressing specific structural, functional, and muscular imbalances.
Imbalances caused by running are easily remedied by addressing the cause versus the symptoms of the effected areas. Most asymmetries are caused by poor body mechanics, overtraining of the dominant muscles in running, and lack of cross over training to incorporate the under utilized muscles. Runners are known for being one of the most injury ridden group of athletes, suffering from low back pain, hip joint pain, knee, ankle, and foot pain. Whether it is a tear, strain, sprain or just a nagging ache or minor discomfort, it is crucial to listen to what the body needs to heal itself.
Benefits of Pilates:
• Improves breathing mechanics
• Elongates & aligns the spine
• Strengthens core & postural muscles
• General strength & conditioning
• Enhances flexibility & active range of motion
• Joint mobilization (esp. hips, spine, & shoulder)
• Enhanced concentration & visualization
• Injury prevention & rehabilitation
• Reduces injury recovery time
Performance Benefits:
A stronger & more stable core assists the runner to:
• Run more efficiently uphill with a stabilized musculature
• Run more efficiently downhill with a stronger and more balanced SI joint area
• Experience less tightening of the neck, head & shoulders
• Increase oxygenation & stamina due to improved diaphragm function
• Focus on proper alignment & movement mechanics
• Enhanced kinesthetic awareness
• Decrease stress & strain on the joints
• Reduced fatigue
• Improved running efficiency leading to better performance outcomes
• Run pain-free!
For information on implementing Pilates into your current fitness program contact:
Candy Keillor
- Certified Pilates Instructor
- Certified Personal Trainer
(416) 367-9957 Ext: 263 or via email: candy.keillor@gmail.com
