Pilates For The Office Worker
Sitting in static positions is not great for us.
Here are the usual effects:
- Forwarded head posture in cervical spine
- Elongated, inactive and weak upper back muscles
- Reduced hip flexion
- Elongated, inactive and weak glutes
- Shoulder internal rotation
- Shortened pectoral muscles
- Shortened hamstrings
WHAT THIS MEANS:
The body is imbalanced and cannot work properly. Because of this, joints stiffen, low and upper back pain may develop, the neck and shoulders may feel tight, and you may be experiencing headaches. Not to mention, blood flows poorly through the areas where there is pressure (numb bum anyone?!) In slump sitting, low back and core muscles are completely inactive. As the shoulders round forwards the muscles across the upper back that stabilize the shoulder blades switch off. Pilates specifically works on strengthening and building control of these muscles.
HOW PILATES HELPS:
Pilates helps to counteract the problems encountered from sitting all day. The stretching aspect of the workouts will release and improve joint range, leading to a more fluid and flexible body. The strengthening aspect of Pilates will work to build balanced and coordinated muscles through the whole chain from neck, shoulders and upper back, right down to your toes! Building a strong core as well as lower back & pelvic stability will help support the spine, helping to reduce and prevent back pain.
Finally, Pilates requires focus on the exercises to execute them correctly. This focus and concentration has been found to reduce stress hormone levels in the body, so your Pilates session is the perfect way to unwind at the end of a long day in the office!