PILATES + RUNNING – The SeattleGYM Health Club
4th of July Class Schedule
June 29, 2014
Labor Day hours at The Seattle Gym
August 25, 2014
4th of July Class Schedule
June 29, 2014
Labor Day hours at The Seattle Gym
August 25, 2014
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PILATES + RUNNING

By Jocelyn Paoli, Stott Certified Pilates Instructor

Training for a marathon this summer? Maybe a 5K race? There is no doubt running is great cardiovascular work. But your body can take a beating which lead to imbalances in the body that can sideline runners.

WHY PILATES?
Runners have great leg strength. However, you may notice your hamstrings (back of legs) are weak. Your quadriceps (front thigh), inner thighs and hip flexors are tight. These imbalances in the muscles of the legs and hips can potentially cause pain and injury for runners, especially the knee, hip, ankle and foot.

What is the best way to balance things out? PILATES. Try our Mat classes.

PILATES EXERCISES WILL:
• Strengthen hamstrings, inner thighs, and glutes, taking pressure off the front and side of the leg
• Elongate and align the spine for better stability
• Improve technique, flexibility and balance
• Recover faster from injuries
• Increase range of motion in hips and shoulders
• Enhance concentration through focused breathing

A balanced body keeps you out on the road, track or treadmill all season long; not to mention shave seconds off your time because you move more efficiently.

Here’s a mat exercise you could start today:

Single Leg Lift Series: Up and Down

‏ 1. Starting Position

leg down 3

 

 

2. Top Leg lifts; point toe

leg up1

 

3. Flex ankle to lower leg

leg up 4

 

 

4. End Position

leg down2