Preparing for a marathon is a rigorous endeavour that requires discipline, dedication, and careful attention to training. As a passionate runner, I’ve always strived to improve my performance and reach new milestones. However, the journey hasn’t been without its setbacks, as injuries and fatigue occasionally hindered my progress.
Determined to find a solution, I decided to incorporate Sports Pilates into my marathon preparation. Little did I know that this decision would have a brilliant impact on my ability to stay injury-free and run stronger than ever before.
In this article, I will share my personal experience and delve into the transformative benefits of Sports Pilates for marathon training.
Building Core Strength and Stability
One of the key elements of Everard Sports Pilates is its emphasis on core strength and stability. The deep engagement of the core muscles during Pilates exercises helped me develop a strong and stable center, providing a solid foundation for my running form. By strengthening the muscles surrounding my spine and pelvis, I experienced improved posture, reduced lower back strain, and enhanced overall body control.
This newfound core stability translated into more efficient running mechanics, minimizing the risk of injuries caused by poor alignment and imbalances.
Enhancing Flexibility and Mobility
Flexibility is paramount for runners, as it allows for fluid movement and a longer stride length. Through Sports Pilates, I discovered a lot of different types of stretches for my ankles, hips, and other areas that can get tight. There are bonus foam rolling and release videos to help me stay supple which really helped, especially as the miles started to increase.
I found I was doing the foam rolling releases nearly every second day and they certainly reduced the number of physio visits I needed.
Balancing Strength and Muscular Imbalances
The repetitive nature of running can lead to muscular imbalances, where certain muscles become overused while others weaken. Everard Sports Pilates played a vital role in identifying and addressing these imbalances. The instructor Dr. Eoin Everard is an elite runner himself as well as a Chartered Physiotherapist, so he knows the type of exercises that runners need to be doing at least weekly.
By strengthening weaker areas and rebalancing muscular forces, I was able to minimize the risk of injuries caused by overcompensation and get more out of my workouts and long runs.
Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
Incorporating Sports Pilates into my marathon training routine has been a game-changer when it came to injury prevention and rehabilitation. The controlled and low-impact nature of Pilates exercises allowed me to strengthen and stabilize my body without putting excessive strain on already fatigued muscles and joints. By proactively integrating Pilates exercises into my training regimen, I significantly reduced the occurrence of running-related injuries and really improved my recovery time.
The classes are by no means easy and I was surprised by how much my legs were burning after doing the exercises but it has been a great addition to my routine and something I will continue with.
Free Trial of Sport Pilates
There are free trials so you can try it for free before having to sign up. Doing the free trial allows you to get an idea of the level you need your strength and flexibility to give you the best chance of staying pain-free and running your best.
Whether you’re an experienced marathon runner or a beginner embarking on your first race, considering the incorporation of Sports Pilates into your training regimen could be the key to staying injury-free and running strong.
I can’t recommend Everard Sport Pilates enough. They offer a free trial so you can try it for free and see if it suits you before signing up. Each week was completely different and honestly, I really like the change to my routine. I never liked the gym and I feel this gives me all that benefits without having to go to a gym.
Here is the link to sign up for a free trial https://everardpilates.com/sportpilates.
Anvi has done Bachelor’s and Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics. She’s planning to do a Ph.D. in Public Health Nutrition moving forward.
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