Run-Down Forums

[Micah Ward]

Anybody familiar with this type of workout? Supposed to be good for abs, lower back, glutes and thighs. Supposed to stretch and lengthen muscles. Could that be good for injury prevention?
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[Distance_Guru]

Sure, core strength is great for prventing IT band, back, hip, knee problems.
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[Dan]

I've heard some good things about it, but no more so than every other fab diet/exercise routine that comes and goes... When in doubt, stretch.

Dan

[will]

Pilates is an excellent way to work both strength and flexibilty all at once. I know some serious Australlian coaches have their guys and girls use it.

[rob in rhode island]

I've been doing yoga for a few years, and had my first Pilates class today. What a humbling experience. This was a grueling workout to my abdominals, hips, back, pelvic region and a host of other muscles which heretofore lay dormant. To my great alarm, I sweated like a pig, the only man in a class of much more seasoned women. The sweating was matched in intensity by groans of exasperation. When I came home, I wanted to sleep the rest of the day.

I have heard that runners are notoriously weak in the ab department, and today's experience attests to that.

I am sticking with it, for better or worse, since I know it's demanding more of me in the strength department. I plan to alternate with yoga for flexibility.

Rob

[Micah Ward]

Rob, please keep us updated on how this class works out. I've been considering giving Pilates a try but there are no classes in my area. I would have to buy a book and try it on my own.
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[rob in rhode island]

Had my second class yesterday and it was a little less grueling, although I spilled my water bottle twice while doing some sweeping arm movement.

I think the instructor is going to boot me since I am prone to sudden fits of laughter at my pathetic efforts.

I'll let you know how things go...

[rob in rhode island]

Quick update:

My Pilates class is getting better, and it's definitely beneficial to deep muscle groups in the abs, hips, glutes, etc.

A challenging regimen, no doubt, but progress/improvement seems to occur quickly, so give it a shot!

Rob

[Paul]

Rob, thanks for keeping us updated. Micah, Denise Austin has a book out and possibly a video on Pilates. You might try that to start. I have skimmed the book, but I have no knowledge on how advanced it is or how it compares to Rob's class.

Paul