There are so many benefits of Reformer Pilates workouts, and it is even said that this workout is also beneficial for runners, is that true? It turns out that the benefits of Pilates workouts for runners are numerous, from improving performance when running, especially when competing, to preventing injuries.
This exercise is very useful because it targets core strength, increases flexibility, and also helps train deep breathing. All of these are very much needed by runners so that their performance can be better.
Why Is Reformer Pilates The Right Choice?
As mentioned earlier, Pilates training with Reformer is recommended for runners. By doing this exercise regularly, runners can achieve higher speed and endurance during running.
Also read: Here's How Pilates Reformer Exercises Reduce Stress Levels
Pilates Reformer exercises that can strengthen the core of the body also have a good impact on maintaining the right body shape or posture when running. Routine exercise can prevent the body from bending due to fatigue when running.
Pilates exercises help strengthen the core muscles, which are the main support of the body. Strong core muscles will help reduce the risk of injury while running. It can also help improve one's efficiency while running.
Body flexibility or flexibility will also increase as Pilates exercises are done routinely. This exercise can increase the range of motion in joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Increased body flexibility can help reduce the possibility of injury while running.
Benefits of Reformer Pilates for Runners
To further convince you how Reformer Pilates can be extremely beneficial for runners, here are some points you should know:
Improve posture and body balance
Regularly practicing Reformer Pilates can help increase muscle strength and correct body imbalances. Having good posture is very beneficial for runners, as it helps them to run more efficiently.
Good posture will also reduce the risk of unwanted injuries while running.
Increase mobility
Good joint mobility, especially in the hip area, is essential for good running and walking posture. Pilates exercises not only engage the core, but also increase muscle length by moving joints through their range of motion. This can help to stretch tight or shortened muscle groups.
Runners tend to experience tightness in their hip flexors, which can shorten their stride. A Pilates Reformer routine can target this problematic muscle group, making for a smoother run.
Improves endurance and breathing control
Just like yoga , Pilates also focuses heavily on the synchronization of breathing with movement. So, not only does it train the muscles of the body, but doing this exercise is also good for the internal organs of the body such as the lungs and diaphragm.
Learning to control your breathing with this exercise can help improve your ability to breathe properly while running, which can ultimately improve your running performance.
Having the ability to control your breathing can also help improve focus, and allow oxygen to fill the entire bloodstream which then has an impact on increasing endurance and preventing extreme fatigue.
Prevent injury
Injury prevention for runners can be achieved by doing regular Reformer Pilates exercises. In addition to prevention, this exercise is also very effective in helping rehabilitation and injury management.
To avoid injury, Pilates helps identify and correct imbalances in the body that put you at risk for injury. Performing Pilates exercises with correct movements and postures can train muscles that are at risk of injury. Ultimately, you can run comfortably and safely.
Increase core strength
Reformer Pilates exercises really require core strength, in order to get good posture while moving, and also to stay stable. Many people mistakenly think that the core is just the abdominal muscles. In fact, the core also includes the muscles in the hips, back, shoulders, and even the neck.
For runners, it is very important to have strong abdominal muscles and hip muscles so that excessive pressure will not occur in the back area and lower leg joints which can cause injury. Strong core muscles will keep runners running with a more upright posture, so that the risk of injury is minimal.
Improve performance
Pilates can help you run faster. When doing the exercises, you can identify which parts of your body are weak and can hinder you when running. These weaker parts of your body can be strengthened by doing Pilates Reformer exercises.
Getting to know your body better with Pilates can go a long way in improving your running performance. It also helps prevent unexpected injuries while running.
Speed ​​up injury recovery
Injuries sustained while running can be rehabilitated by doing Pilates exercises, including exercises using the Reformer machine. This exercise can improve blood flow, which helps relieve pain and muscle tension that may occur after a long run or an intense running session.
When running, muscles may contract or shorten. Pilates Reformer exercises will help lengthen muscles to improve joint mobility and flexibility.
When recovering from an injury, Pilates is an ideal exercise choice to aid the rehabilitation process without putting further stress on the joints. It can even shorten recovery time, so you can get back to running at peak performance.
Read more: Is it true that Reformer Pilates can help you lose weight?
In addition, Pilates can also be a great way to warm up before running. Doing this exercise can prepare your muscles before finally entering a more intense running activity.
Because running is a repetitive motion, where the body works mostly in one plane and one direction, imbalances in muscles or gait can easily escalate into injury.
Pilates Reformer exercises can help identify these issues and help prevent injuries from occurring. So, for those of you who like to run or are indeed athletes, then balance your activities with Pilates which brings many benefits.
