I’ve been doing Pilates for about seven years.  From my very first session, it felt as if all the stiff and sore areas of my body had been waiting for Pilates to make things right!  Pilates focus is always on engaging the core muscles of the torso before doing any other kind of physical work. Once the core muscles are doing their support work, the Pilates workout resembles a kind of yoga with weights. Although the Pilates equipment looks a little bit like the rack used in the dark ages for torture, the workout really feels smooth and fluid.  Pilates work can also be done using just a mat.  Initial instruction from a qualified Pilates instructor is important to insure that you properly understand the basics and will experience the benefits of the method.

Through my Pilates sessions, I learned to stabilize my core by tucking my abdominals and engaging my low back and gluteal muscles.  The next step was to learn to use these muscles for support while walking, riding my bike, hiking, even while riding my horse.  I discovered that the benefits of paying attention to your core muscles pays off in reduced soreness and fewer sports injuries.

With the approach of summer, I found myself gimping around after planting flowers in my garden.  Finding this guarded mode of movement unacceptable, I decided to see if it would help to engage my core muscles while bending over to plant things. What a difference a little core support makes to yard work!  If you feel sore after tending to your yard or garden, give it a try.  Before bending over to work, tuck your abs, gluteals, and those little support muscles just above the belt in the back, on either side of the spine.  Hold them in place while you are bent over, and be sure to hold them until you’ve straightened up again.

The core work helped so much in the yard, I got inspired to add it to my very capricious golf swing.  (My swing is so unreliable and often so frustrating, it brings to mind the Robin Williams quote, “Why do you think they call it a STROKE???”)  Tuck the core muscles before starting the swing.  I swear I‘ve been more stable and consistent in my golf swing since I started using my core muscles!

There are lots more areas to apply core support.  Try it while doing lifting of any kind, especially small children, groceries, or any other items that weigh more than a few pounds.  Once you get the hang of movement while engaging your core, it starts to become second nature.  You’ll avoid the stiffness and soreness that can hold you back from feeling your best and you might even improve at your favorite sport!

- Pam Brooks