Is Pilates for runners? Whether going for a light job or training for a marathon, Pilates can bring muscular balance to the repetitive movement of running. Overusing the same muscles week after week without counteracting them with cross-training will increase your chances of injury over time. In this blog post, we’ll answer the question: Can Pilates fix muscle imbalance? Is Pilates good for runners? Why should runners do Pilates? If you’re a runner who has been pondering these questions yourself, keep reading.

Can Pilates fix muscle imbalance?

Well-developed core strength is the foundation of a healthy, strong, and balanced body. Pilates core strength isn’t solely reserved for building ab muscles. It equally strengthens all layers of the abdominals and back extensors. This sets the stage for the body to build muscle, mobility, and flexibility in an organized and balanced state. Pilates exercises don’t isolate one muscle at a time. Instead, the body stretches and strengthens muscles with holistic and intentional movement. 

Each Pilates session will move your body through flexion, extension, lateral, and spinal twist movements. This prevents the body from spending excessive time building strength in one movement plan. The results are a well-balanced, healthy body with posture, strength, and agility.

Is Pilates good for runners? 

Pilates is excellent for runners for numerous reasons. It develops core strength, which helps posture and balance. Pilates requires deep concentration and attention to form, which will undoubtedly improve one’s ability to maintain mental focus during a run. Additionally, cross-training with Pilates can help prevent injury, correct muscle and gait imbalance, and improve mobility and flexibility.

Why runners should do Pilates – Top 4 Reasons 

1. Enhances core strength

Engaging core muscles is the foundation of Pilates, from the most basic movements to the most complex. In Pilates, your core muscles are called the powerhouse, rightfully so because they include your upper, lower, and side abdominals, deep pelvic muscles, back extensors, and even extending into the hip flexors. A well-developed core means better posture and less back and hip pain.

2. Promotes healthy breathing

One of Pilates’s six principles is breath, also known as lateral breathing. This form of breathing expands the ribcage to maximum capacity while maintaining core engagement. 

3. Increases flexibility and mobility

Pilates simultaneously stretches and strengthens your body. This is good news for runners who typically do a few low-body stretches post-run and call it good. Instead, incorporate Pilates into your warm-up, cool-down, or rest day for healthy cross-training. You’ll likely experience faster muscle recovery, fewer injuries, and an increased overall sense of well-being. 

4. Refines movement patterns

For the Olympic runner, slight adjustments to your gait may shave milliseconds, making the difference between a gold or silver metal. While most runners don’t fall into this category, achieving your personal best is a worthy pursuit. Pilates emphasizes efficient movement patterns with healthy alignment and form. Bringing this awareness into your running may improve your gait and help prevent injury.
Overall, Pilates is an excellent choice for runners looking to improve the quality of their running practice. Start Pilates today if you want to take your running to the next level. ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates in Peachtree City, Ga, has online and in-person classes. Book your class today!