I have always had a passion for staying active and being as healthy as possible. From previously being a gymnast and springboard diver, I am very familiar with lots of strength and conditioning programs. However, believe it or not I think my very first Pilates class left me the sorest!
What I love most about Pilates is that it has a great emphasis on maintaining good posture, control and core strength. This is something that I find gets forgotten in many exercise programs, but is something that is one of the most important parts. Many injuries stem from poor motor control or maladaptive positions during exercise. When I go to the gym, I see a lot of people pumping weights that are far too heavy for themselves. You see their back arching and face red from holding their breath, it’s only a matter of time until they injure themselves or hurt their backs!
Being a physiotherapist, I have seen the changes that Pilates has in both the short and long term for people whether that’s rehabilitating an injury or increasing general fitness levels. Working against spring resistance, loading muscles concentrically (shortening) and eccentrically (lengthening) as well as working at end range muscle lengths is one of the fastest ways to build strength and flexibility. Just after a few classes I could already feel the difference and could say I had a “spring” in my step. Sorry for being punny!
Outside of work, you’ll find me surfing with friends, drinking coffee at cafes and travelling as much as possible.
Stay happy!
Lauren
