BENEFITS FOR SPORT

Running

Pilates is the perfect partner for running – with both sports as much about mental activity as physical exertion.

Good runners run tall. They don't hunch, lean, push with their hips or tighten through the neck and shoulders. They avoid pounding the ground with every stride, instead they strive for smooth and light movement, with economy and an integrity to their form.

Serious runners also pay attention and don't zone out with the iPod. They develop their kinaesthetic awareness to explore the feel of their feet on the ground, balance their head on the neck and spine, release their ankles and knees in sequence, and be on alert for mild aches to correct their technique.

Pilates will help runners to:
>  Build long, strong muscles
>  Improve flexibility
>  Open up the vertebrae in the lower back, to prevent back injuries caused by constant impact
>  Focus their breathing pattern as the workload becomes more demanding.