Running is taking over and we are here for it. Everywhere you look, there are people pounding the pavement, getting those steps in and elevating their heart rates.
But when it comes to running, people are also conscious of succumbing to injuries, as well as to promoting better performance and endurance – i.e. getting more bang for your buck. Enter Our Pilates, and this supportive runner’s workout.
Hannah, co-owner of Our Pilates, is a physiotherapist and runner, and has worked with many fellow runners over the years to help them recover from and prevent injury, as well as improve their performance and achieve their goals. Having both experienced injuries through running and seeing first-hand how Pilates helps in so many ways, owners Brooke and Han are big believers in adding Pilates to your week if you love to run. Including Pilates in your running routine can help to improve your technique and efficiency, which will boost your performance and reduce your risk of overuse injuries.
Pilates and running go hand in hand, it’s the perfect way to balance out the intensity of running and by using exercises that specifically relate to running, you will see a big difference after just a few classes. Pilates is particularly effective at building strength, control and muscle endurance in the areas we need for running. There’s a big focus on core and glute strength, knee control, ankle stability, posture and body awareness, which all make a big difference to your running technique without even having to think about it. With less energy wasted on poor biomechanics and posture you’ll feel lighter and less tired while you run – making it much more enjoyable to get out there.
But it’s not just physical benefits you will notice. Pilates strengthens your mind/body connection and helps you to exercise mindfully. You’ll become more in control of your breathing and be able to let go of tension where you don’t need it.
A 20-minute Pilates workout for runners
This 20-minute workout is designed to build strength and control in all the areas you need when running. Do each exercise for 60 seconds at your own pace and make sure you do both sides!
Side kick
Dead bug
Bridge marching
Donkey kick
Side plank leg lift
Lunge and high knee
Scooter
Squat and calf raise
Arabesque and squat
Mountain climber
Hannah McKimm is co-owner of Our Pilates, an online subscription Pilates service. They offer a whole library of online classes to help build your core strength from home. With classes for all levels and abilities, ranging from 5-50 minutes, there’s something for everyone.
