Many of us enjoy leading an active life, but years of play take a toll on the body. Applying the Pilates principles will both improve your abilities as well as prevent sports-related injuries:
Volleyball – some of the most common injuries sustained from playing volleyball include shoulder injuries as well as pain in the lower-back. By learning to correct your defensive waiting posture, for instance, you can greatly improve your game while protecting your body from potential injuries.
Running (Marathon, Leisure) – the impact that running has on the joints and the lower back is common knowledge. Pilates can help stretch out your muscles and minimize the impact on your joints as well as teach you proper form to help prevent future pain so you can continue to run.
Cycling – learning to incorporate your powerhouse allows you to access the muscles in your body that may usually be overlooked and under used. For example, by engaging your seat you will increase your strength, power and, therefore, increase your speed while lessening muscle fatigue. Pilates can show you how to lessen the impact on the hips and help you avoid being permanently hunched over as a result of hovering while on your bike.
Dancing – balance is the central element of dancing. The body naturally has imbalances which can become worse with time if not addressed. Fortunately Pilates not only helps bring balance to the body but it also improves proper form and increases flexibility of the limbs, always a bonus for dancers.