Guest Blog: Pilates Has Got Your Back
Do you suffer from back pain?
The incidence of back pain is on the rise. This is by far the number one complaint from new clients coming into My Pilates Studio, at 1899 Queen St East, in Toronto. Think about it… we are so much more sedentary than we were 3 years ago (pre-pandemic) and we all seem to have an increased dependence on technology. Many of us are now working from home, with likely, not the most ergonomically friendly desk set up. All of which contribute to poor posture and body mechanics, weakness and tightness, which in turn create pain.
Sadly, our modern day lifestyles have their ill effects on our bodies. But, there’s hope! Insert…Pilates. Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the body's core muscles, improving flexibility and balance, and promoting overall physical well-being.
Developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, the method involves a series of low-impact movements and stretches that target the deep muscles of the abdomen and back, as well as the muscles of the hips, legs, and arms. Pilates can be done on a mat or using specialized equipment, such as a reformer, and it is often used by athletes, dancers, and individuals seeking to improve their overall fitness and well-being.
Though there is an emphasis on core work, core strength alone is not the end goal. Rather, using that core strength to develop functional and sustainable movement patterns throughout the body is the goal.
Pilates teaches awareness of proper alignment of the spine and strengthening of the deep core and postural muscles that support this alignment, which are important to help alleviate and prevent back pain and other pesky aches and pains.
When we stand or sit with a tall, lengthened spine, we create space between the vertebral discs, relieving pressure on the back. By learning to engage the abdominal muscles and lengthening the spine simultaneously, you create a stronger, more supple and pain-free back.
In a nutshell, Pilates teaches you proper body positioning and movement mechanics and in turn…
Increase core and overall strength
Increase body awareness
Release tension
Relieve aches and pains
Decrease physical and mental stress
Prevent and rehab an injury
Improve joint mobility
Improve flexibility
Improve posture
Improve balance
Improve cognitive function
Gain more energy to do the things you love doing the most….that might end up being more Pilates!
Let’s take care of that back of yours, shall we? Book with us online at www.mypilatesstudio.ca and be sure to check out our New Client Offers. We look forward to moving with you!
Melissa Macchione
Principle Instructor and Owner, My Pilates Studio
