If you love running, you know the feeling: the clear head, the steady rhythm, the satisfaction of a new personal best. You probably also know the other side: tight hips, niggly knees and that point late in a run when your form starts to fall apart.
It's one of the reasons so many runners come to our studio. Running is thousands of repetitive steps, and Pilates builds the strength and control that support every one of them.
Why runners need more than running
Running mostly moves you forward in a straight line, using the same muscles in the same pattern over and over. Over time, some muscles do too much while others switch off.
Pilates helps fill those gaps by strengthening the muscles that stabilise you, working through a fuller range of movement, and building control on one leg at a time.
How Pilates can help your running
Glutes and hips that fire. Strong glutes and hips can help you run more efficiently and keep your knees tracking well.
Form that holds when you're tired. Core stability can help you hold good posture in those last few kilometres.
Single-leg strength and balance. Running is a single-leg sport. Pilates builds balance and ankle control on one leg at a time.
Mobility through your hips and spine. Moving well can help your stride feel smoother and less restricted.
Recovery that still counts. Low-impact strength and mobility on your non-running days.
How to fit Pilates into your training
Start with one or two classes a week on your easy or rest days. Avoid the hardest classes right before a key session or race, and a Restore and Flow class can feel great the day after a long run.
Our classes start from 5:10am, so you can fit one in before work and still get your kilometres in.
What to expect in class
You don't need any Pilates experience. Every class has options, and your instructor will guide you through every movement. Expect to feel muscles you didn't know you had, especially your glutes.
Ready to try it?
If you're a runner in Ipswich looking to feel stronger and more balanced, come and try a class. Two or three classes a week is a great rhythm alongside your running.
Stronger legs. Stronger stride. See you on the Reformer.
