Nutrition
Sometimes when you head to a group session it’s easy to just switch off and follow instructions, or copy what everyone else is doing.
But a little bit of internal focus goes a long way. These are some top basic principles to bear in mind, making sure you are getting the most out of any movement session.
Breathe!
Make sure you are breathing through the movement. As with any exercise, or any situation in life really, holding your breath may result in detrimental effects. Breathing well will ensure proper oxygenation of the muscles and facilitation of adequate muscular contractions (e.g. to contract the TVA it is necessary to practice the proper exhalation, as this enables the muscle to strengthen).
Eye focus
Where are your eyes looking? The rest of you will follow. Keep your eyes focused in the right direction to ensure that your head and neck are in proper alignment. This has a dramatic effect on neck and shoulder tension, and could also help alleviate neural issues in the whole upper quadrant. Translating into inspirational life tip “ where your attention goes the energy flows” . Your eyes lead your intention.
Less is more.
Feeling pressured to keep pace with the person next to you? Sometimes, slow controlled movements are harder to perform and more beneficial in the long run. Performing exercises deliberately will allow greater focus and ensure that each of them is being performed correctly. Done this way, fewer repetitions are necessary. Remember, “ Quality over quantity”, a few good ones are better than a lot of average ones.
Ensure correct alignment
No matter what part of the body your are training, it is imperative that the entire body maintains the best alignment possible. If body segments are not lined up, it can result in less than desirable results and possibly increased tension. The same for life, good posture translates into confidence, your body talks, how you step up to face the world. Joseph Pilates said: “ You are as old as your spine”. A 30 year old with bad posture can look older than a 60 year old with a straight spine and a spring in their step.
For bonus points, you can even practice putting these principles into play in the office or while you’re queuing at the grocery store. No more ‘smart phone hunch’!
Looking for a new group class? Check out our Group Class schedule for strength, flexibility, movement – and a whole lotta fun!
