Run on Over.
I used to run and run a decent amount of miles every week. I trained for half and full marathons. I only considered it a run if it was at least 5 miles. Anyone else? Sadly, like so many before me, I got hurt. I knew nothing about mobility work. I knew that stretching was a good idea, but never put it into practice.
Now, I teach Pilates, and I wish that Pilates was in my life sooner. Runners, this one is for you. What can Pilates do for you and your runs? Trust me, it won’t make you slower.
Gait. Have you ever been fit for shoes? Typically, they will watch you run to see where you land and what your ankles like to do. You might hear that you pronate, supinate or just neutral. Pilates can help you improve your gait by working your weaker muscles. If you tend to pronate, we will focus on your outer hips. Supinate, we will work on your inner thighs. In Pilates, we work from the ground up. Personally, I am all about warming up your feet and ankles before any workout.
Did you know that you have other muscles besides your quads and calves? If you take a deeper dive into your quads, you have outer and inner thighs, hip flexor muscles and hamstrings. Plus, you have a core and upper body too. Who knew? The side body is so important to work as an athlete. Your side body helps lift heavier weights, run faster and just stay healthier. We are not designed to only move forwards. My favorite muscles to work, thanks Lesley Logan, is the Thass (where your thigh meets your ass.) Critical for runners to tap into those muscles.
Mobility work. Let's get this clear. Mobility work is not simply stretching. More research has shown that static stretching may not be the best way to gain flexibility or keep your joints healthy. Mobility work makes sure that your joints can move freely and pain free. Working hip mobility is huge for runners. When your hips can move more freely, your low back, hamstrings and knees will feel better.
Variety is nice. I get it. Running is life. Those endorphins after a run are incredible; however, your body will appreciate a change in tempo, and some activity that is not so hard on your joints.
Brrr! It is cold. As I am writing this, it currently feels like -6! I understand that there are treadmills, but need I say more? Get some spice in your running routine, work other muscles, get some mobility all with Pilates. It is your one stop shop. Run on over 😀