Pilates will strengthen your muscles from the inside out. This concept has long been known by dancers and elite athletes. Now it appeals to everyone because students are realizing that Pilates can be very effective for your everyday life. From something as simple as a the way a mother carries her child around all day to a static desk job that leaves you stiff, sore, and prone to carpal tunnel; Pilates can help your body function.
Most conventional workouts only focus on the large muscle groups, such as the Quadriceps femoris (thighs), Pectoralis Major (chest), and the Latissimus dorsi (back). If you are constantly focused only on the large muscle groups, then you are not working to your body’s full potential and could be more prone to injuries. With proper technique through Pilates, you can actually re-train your body to move both efficiently and effectively.
Pilates focuses on the smaller more intrinsic muscles; such as the Psoas, the Serratus anterior, and the deepest layer of the abdominals called the Transversus abdominis.These 3 muscles are important for: preventing injuries, improving posture, and alleviating muscle tension.
Pilates focuses on the smaller more intrinsic muscles; such as the Psoas, the Serratus anterior, and the deepest layer of the abdominals called the Transversus abdominis.These 3 muscles are important for: preventing injuries, improving posture, and alleviating muscle tension.
- The Psoas muscle runs from the low back to the front of the pelvis and down the upper leg. It allows all movement in the lower body to occur. The Psoas facilitates the hips to rotate, abduct, and flex. The body will not be aligned in correct posture without the strength and flexibility of the Psoas.
- The Serratus anterior is under the arm near the scapula and interlaces with the muscles of the core. Most people carry their stress in their neck and shoulders and tend to unknowingly overwork those muscles. Pilates will teach you to use the Serratus instead of the Trapezius to alleviate that pain.
- The Transversus abdominis lies under your six pack abs and stabilizes the movement of your torso. This muscle is activated by drawing in the belly button to the spine. If this muscle is neglected then you are at a higher risk for injuring your back.
