Working on Balance and coordination is a really big part of Pilates. We often do single leg movements (unilateral training) and balance based exercises in classes as it builds functional strength and improves coordination. People are always surprised at how much they can feel the muscles in their legs and bum working just standing still on one leg!!!
Being able to balance on one leg not only strengthens the whole leg but also helps with alignment of the foot which is a common problem with people who suffer knee and hip pain. Plus, did you know, If you struggle to stand on one leg for at least 20 seconds then you are at a higher risk of trips and falls. Every time you practice the one leg stance, it is an opportunity to recalibrate your brain, forming new connections and strengthening the coordination between your ears, eyes, joints and muscles. Sensors in all our joints and muscles keep sending feedback to the brain so it can learn how best to keep you upright.
So use it or lose it…….. join us and practice standing on one leg today with our #SocksAndShoesChallenge
Simply grab a pair of socks and shoes (with laces preferably) and see if you can put them on whilst standing up but without standing on both feet at the same time… watch out for our teachers showing you on our social media…. Upload a video or time yourself to let us know how you get on
Find out more about the importance of single leg balancing
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/35QytBYmkXJ4JnDYl9zYngb/why-you-should-stand-on-one-leg
Pilates and working on balance can also help runners as it highlights imbalances in the legs and balance work helps to create a stronger core and hip area read more here https://ace-pt.org/importance-standing-one-leg-runner/
