In addition we have the heaven that is Wimbledon. I LOVE this time of year with the warm, long summer evenings. I finish work,and can have the back doors open, put on the T.V. and flop in front of whatever match is playing and enjoy world class sport.
Obviously though, I have to bring this around to Pilates so here we go...
It is interesting how many people still think Pilates is for women. Fortunately this is changing but I still get asked if I ever teach men and the answer is yes and actually 1 and sometimes 2 of my weekly classes have more men than women.
Don't forget that Pilates was invented by a man by the name of Joseph Pilates (although he called his work "Contrology and it was renamed Pilates after his death).
The vast majority of professional sports men and women/athletes incorporate Pilates into their training schedule. I have posted many a photo of Murray, Federer and Djokovic on a reformer (keeping it topical - I did notice a Pilates reformer in the home of word class Tour rider Waot van Aert in the TdF doc)
(Check out Mr Murray here in his Teaser on the Pilates chair!)
Pilates is over 100 years old and the principles remain the same. Breath, coordination, control, precision of movement all in addition to a strong and balance body with improved posture.
World class athletes know they need this form of exercise and movement to help them with improved body awareness and to stay strong and injury free. Mobility and core strength is essential in order to continue with all the other forms of sport and activity.
For us mere mortals, let's consider some of the reasons why we need this exercise in our lives, irrespective of gender -
Pilates builds strength in a low impact way so is perfect for long term joint health.
By building strength and muscular endurance, low back pain can be dramatically reduced.
By connecting to a strong core, coordination and balance is hugely improved.
You may be lifting heavy weights in the gym or beasting your opponent on the tennis court but can you stabilise your spine?
Pilates is not about lying on the floor and stretching. Still think it's easy? Come and join a class with me and let't have fun with The Hundred and see how long you can hold a Teaser. Two of the more recognisable exercises that can only be performed correctly if you are connected to your centre and have a strong core.
Who knows? With enough practise, you might be able to ride uphill without getting off to push!
Do you know, we are EXACTLY half way through the year?
All that hard work you have put in during the first half needs maintaining so PLEASE don't let the summer holibobs undo all your effort. What steps are you going to take to make sure you stay on track? We will have an almost full live calendar ALL the way through the summer, in addition to a library positively bulging at the seams - there really is no excuse and if you need extra support or guidance, give me a shout and let's make sure we head into Autumn as strong, fit and well as we start our summer.
If you haven't achieved as much as you had hoped, IT IS NOT TOO LATE. Start TODAY. Choose how you want to see the second half of the year - fitter, stronger, happier, more motivated... what are your goals?
