What is Pilates? It is a form of exercise
that focuses on the "core stability muscles", these are the postural
muscles that help keep the body posture balanced. The exercises are
slow and controlled, using correct breathing techniques and body
alignment. The muscles concentrated on are Transverse Abdominals (
those that give you a Marilyn Monroe figure ) The multifidi, these
are small intrinsic muscles that cross from each vertebrae upwards
to four or five higher vertebrae and stabilise the spine when
heavier loads are lifted with the larger muscles. Also the psoas and
iliapsoas which come from the upper lumbar vertebrae under the
stomach to the inside of the upper thigh. Generally these muscles
work continuously throughout the day, therefore they have an
excellent blood suppy and need to be trained differently.
In
modern day lifestyles, which generally entails a great deal of
sitting, these muscles are often idle for prolonged periods of time,
they may become shortened and weak. The outcome of this is their
inability to support the core structures when heavy physical demands
are required.
Is it wise to see an Osteopath before committing
to Pilates? The answer to this has to be yes. Very often our
bodies carry some form of one sidedness due to how we have lived our
lives. We also may have a long term rotation in the spine due to a
slightly shortened leg or an old injury that may have lef us weaker
or stronger on one side. When attempting to do excersises that
require symmetrical controlled movements, a shortened muscle on one
side of the back will take all the strain. This will very quickly
manifest itself with pain in the insertions. If the exercises
cotinue it may become chronic, this would mean that the intended
plan of regular Pilates will be broken before it has begun. Very
unsatisfactory physically and financially for both trainer and
exerciser. However should you undertake a course of Pilates and soon
after experience pain. Book an appointment to see your local
Osteopath or feel free to email us here at enquiries@theosteopath.net
Mat Pilates This form of pilates is a form of
exercise regime done entirely free of machines. Generally it may be
done in a group with a teacher overseeing the class.
Machine Pilates This form of pilates is a
form of exercise regime done with the use of machines designed to
control ans assist specificity of training. Generally you would work
one on one with a highly qualified instructor until your bady was
stronger and you required less supervision.
More about Pilates For more details about
Pilates and one to classes from experienced Pilates instructors
visit
www.thepilatespractice.com.
The Osteopath When visiting an Osteopath with
chronic or acute problems, you are assessed and treated with a view
to prevention of further injury, combined with corrective exercise.
The Osteopath is empathetic to the patients need to establish a
speedy recovery of the body and return to the achievement of
intended goals. If you are unsure of wether or not Pilates is
suitable for you please
email:enquiries@theosteopath.net
