Building Functional Strength…PILATES STYLE
SIT TALL
STAND STRONG
GET OFF THE FLOOR WITH “GRACE AND BEAUTY”
I WILL GET OFF THE COMMODE BY MYSELF WHEN I AM 90 YEARS OLD!
Question…. Why do we exercise?
Answer….. To feel better?
To look better?
TO BE ABLE TO LIVE MY LIFE THE WAY I WANT TO LIVE IT!
As disappointing as it may be, you cannot “wish” yourself to be stronger. You actually have to do the work to MAKE yourself stronger….that IS why they call it a WORKout.
So how do we do it….get stronger that is? Lift weights, do cardio, take a Pilates class?
My answer….Yes, yes and yes!
Our bodies need all forms of exercise to keep it “guessing” and keep it moving the way we want to move. Whether we are lifting weights or doing Pilates, we should incorporate “functional” movements into every routine.
Functional movements….be more specific you say….OK!
Incorporate exercises that reflect what we do (or should do) all day, everyday….
*Squats to simulate getting out of a chair and sitting down with control
*Hold that squat in preparation for “Port-a-potty” season
*One-legged dead lift or one-legged hinge to train the body to pick up light object off the floor.
Exercising functionally will help establish good balance, alignment and techniques so you can function effectively and avoid injury.
Functional Pilates vs. “Just Plain Ol’” Pilates
DEFINITION….”JUST PLAIN OL’ PILATES” is “a system of exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture, and enhance mental awareness” (Dictionary).
DEFINITION….FUNCTIONAL PILATES….choosing specific Pilates exercises that simulate function. Functional Pilates helps build a body that moves correctly through activities of daily living, sports and every day LIFE.
When we incorporate functional movements in our exercise routine, this prepares our body for the movements we will be required to perform regularly. It trains our brains and our bodies to move effectively and efficiently without having to always think about how to move. And THIS reduces the incidence of injury.
QUIZ….Which Pilates exercise trains your body for function the best:
- The Hundred
- Roll Ups
- Scissors
- Double Leg Kick
There is a whole list of Pilates exercises that mimic functional movements…Roll Ups, Roll Downs, Push Up, Pilates Squat, etc., etc.
All of these Pilates exercises simulate how to move effectively and efficiently throughout our day.
If you want a great workout to help you improve your functional strength, check out the NEW class added to the ABS Pilates ONLINE class library called…what else but…FUNCTIONAL PILATES (This will be added by Oct. 6th)
You can also do the monthly workout above.
Sign up for in-person classes at ABS Pilates (www.a-b-s-pilates.com) or for over 100 ON-DEMAND Pilates classes…including FUNCTIONAL PILATES.
*Over 100 different classes
*Novice, Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Classes
*Pilates, Barre, Strengthening, Yoga and Stretching classes
*FREE 2-Week Trial for all new clients
ABS Pilates provides the most comprehensively trained and certified Pilates instructor in the area.
ABS Pilates is located in Sunbury, Ohio. It services the Sunbury, New Albany, Gahanna, Westerville, Johnstown and Columbus areas.
ABS Pilates offers in-studio Mat and Equipment-based Pilates for all levels of fitness.
ABS Pilates offers Online Mat Pilates for all levels of fitness.
All classes are taught by Amanda B. Smith, licensed physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor with more than 30 years of experience.
Amanda
Amanda Smith - Licensed Physical Therapist, certified Pilates instructor, ACE certified Group Exercise Instructor, ACE certified Health Coach, Certified McKenzie Therapist. Ready to help you become stronger and healthier in a safe, fun and holistic manner.
