2024.11.10 - Pilates in Common Newsletter

Howdy!

Can you name the first principle of Pilates? 

Hint: it’s something you can take, hold, and let out.

If you answered “breath,” you got it!

We often hear students say, “It’s hard to breathe when concentrating so deeply.” We get it! But this week, as you move through your Pilates flow, focus on just breathing—no need to worry about timing each inhale and exhale perfectly with your movements. There’s a time and place for that level of precision. For now, simply keep your breath steady and continuous—in and out, in and out—almost like the beat of a metronome.

Why focus on the flow of your breath this Friday? 

Well, holding your breath can lead to:

🙅Increased Muscle Tension – Without oxygen flowing to the muscles, tension builds up, making it harder to achieve smooth, controlled movements.

🙅Disrupted Core Stability – Holding your breath interferes with deep core engagement, which can compromise stability in your movements.

🙅Reduced Range of Motion – Breath-holding can create rigidity, preventing muscles from reaching their full stretch and reducing overall flexibility.

On the other hand, breathing continuously with intention causes:

🙌Enhanced Muscle Activation – Steady breathing keeps oxygen flowing to the muscles, optimizing their function and endurance.

🙌Deeper Core Engagement – A consistent exhale activates the core, supporting your spine and enhancing overall stability.

🙌Greater Movement Fluidity – Continuous breathing reduces tension and keeps muscles supple, allowing for smoother, more fluid transitions.

So, as you move through your practice this Friday, let your breath be your guide. Each inhale and exhale keeps you grounded, stable, and connected to your flow, making your Pilates practice stronger and more intentional. Breathe, breathe, breathe—and feel the difference it makes!

Class Theme: 

Friday, November 15th at 12:30pm with Keegan: 

Do we move better when we breathe better? Or do we breathe better when we move better? 🤔 When we fully engage our core, as in the traditional mat sequence, it naturally encourages deeper breathing. The more energy your muscles need, the more oxygen you require. In other words, the harder you work, the more you need to breathe. You've likely felt this on a run or while walking uphill when holding your breath isn't an option.

This week, try alternating between breath facilitating movement and movement enhancing breath. Exploring this dynamic can improve your awareness, precision, and tempo—making those challenging exercises feel easier and more enjoyable!

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