Pilates designed for runners...

Is Pilates good for Runners?

I have asked myself this question for a number of years. Firstly for myself, and more recently for my clients...

The answer is absolutely yes...
Even an "off the shelf" Pilates program will benefit the runner in a number of ways.

Core stability and gluteal muscle stability will improve (reduces low back pain pain).
Breathing comfort will improve.
Flexibility in some directions will improve.

But that is not enough. Some highly experienced Pilates practitioners that I have met have had to give up their much loved running - due for example to knee pain.

... but something more is required
We have to take our Pilates out of the studio and onto the track for a test drive. I enjoy my running immensely. I am not a fast runner. Nor am I particularly robust - that keeps me humble, and also makes me the ideal testing ground to determine what works for runners. I read, test, and refine the recommendations of dozens of running and therapeutic "experts". And I learn by advising and observing my clients. The result is "Pilates for Runners". I am increasingly able to help others. And I know I can help you too!

Here is the commitment required from you to make "Pilates for Runners" work in your life:-

Learn to make each Pilates exercise in the repertoir work for you as a runner (I'll tell you how).
Dedicate time to a Pilates enhanced stretching program.
Develop a feel and skill for trigger point self massage.
Train to be light on your feet, with specific "warm up" drills.
Run with the mind: learn running technique with proven visualisation techniques.
Memorize how to train, how to recover, how to eat.

I realise that the above topics can seem dull and boring to some (though not to me, because I know that they work!), so I feel that I need to convince and explain the Pilates way for runners, thus I will include studies to help you understand why it is that I recommend what I recommend:-

Articles that will revolutionize your understanding of your "Running Machine"!

The Pilates body mechanic
Specific ailments

Many of the skills that will help runners will help walkers and chair sitters! It will give me great pleasure to help you on your personal journey, so please