Source: Fitnessgenes
Running can be one of the most challenging sports. Theoretically, it seems easy because you don’t have to worry about a ball or any other specific movements like kicking. But running for some time can be one of the quickest ways to exhaust your body.
Your breathing is heavy, your heart rate is up, and your muscles are starting to ache. Of course, running will never be a piece of cake, and if it is, then lucky you! But for those who are looking to make the activity a bit easier and even improve, then you have come to the right place.
We are going to looking at the benefits of pilates for runners. Now, these benefits are, in general, the results you can find from any pilates class. Different types of pilates will have their results.
Types of Pilates
These are the common types of pilates for runners. Some instructors may have a subcategory of pilates based on the following, but it is always best to determine which one is for you.
Classical Pilates
Mat Pilates
Contemporary Pilates
Reformer Pilates
Each type will vary in movements and different muscle targets. However, overall each pilates type can benefit runners.
5 Benefits of Pilates for Runners
The following pilates benefits for runners can be beneficial to anyone, but these factors specifically aid runners. Even if you are not a full-time runner, pilates can still help because it is essential to practice your running.
If you haven’t run in a while, that can cause a more significant strain on your body. However, if you are interested in getting into running, then pilates can also help you.
Improve posture
Source: Netdoctor
One of the main pilates benefits for runners that people experience is improved posture. Of course, everyone can benefit from gaining proper posture, but runners especially need a proper alignment. Have you ever seen a faster runner that’s slumped over?
It is doubtful to come across a professional runner that has bad posture during their run. However, it takes time to develop a proper alignment to build the correct form for running. Most professional runners train to align their head, neck, spine, and pelvis because your alignment is essential for running.
Pilates forces us to hold the correct alignment, which will train our body to maintain the correct form.
Helps with Breathing
Source: WomensHealth
Following a correct alignment is managing your breath. Whether you are running on a track or mountain, your breathing is vital. Running is one sport that makes us aware that we need to pay attention to our breathing.
From birth, breathing is a natural process, but with running, breath control does not seem natural. Controlled breathing ensures that oxygen is getting to the appropriate muscles while you run.
Pilates will train you to take proper breathes, known as diaphragmatic breathing. This breathing can help oxygenate every muscle and relieve tension while running.
Increase core strength
Source: Avenu Fitness
For every athlete, the core is the most critical area to strengthen. Core strength doesn’t just mean abdominal strength. The core will include hips, back, abdominals, shoulders, and neck. When all of these muscles are strong and balanced, then the core represents a stabiliser. It is a centre to transfer forces through running.
Pilates will increase core strength to control and maximise the forces you produce during your run. An increase core strength will help the rhythm and force with every step, which can aid in endurance.
Improve endurance
Source: Boston Magazine
Speaking of endurance, pilates can also improve your endurance and speed. The movements in Pilates will help you losen your hips and other muscles for fluid movements. By loosening the legs and back, you will also experience longer strides.
Working on your breathing, core strength, and posture - all those elements assist in your endurance and stamina.
Quicker recovery
Source: ClassPass
Many people will never view running as a dangerous or challenging sport. Instead, people view it as an early skill, from crawling to walking to running. But running puts a significant strain on the muscles and can result in many injuries.
There can be tears, sores, fractured or broken ankles, etc. Even after a running practice, your body needs time to recover. Pilates can decrease the recovery time by increasing joint mobility.
Conclusion
Are you looking to get into pilates? Stop by our La Dolce studio to see what kind of classes we offer. Remember there are different types of pilates, so you might want to see which one is for you!
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