so... what is Pilates?

I had a really interesting conversation with someone last night- he has been practicing Pilates (forever) to complement his sport in skating. He took the plunge to do a reformer training (somewhere) but was rather disappointed how information was watered down (or taken too simply).

so... what is Pilates?
and what does it offer you as a practitioner?

I fell in love with Pilates at first attempt (like quite literally). It was logical, and highly functional. As a teacher/instructor of this method for more than 7 years, I am still awed by this revolutionary method. I guess it's also because our bodies are (DAMN) amazing, how it naturally moves, and heals.

so... what is Pilates?

I would say the concept itself is foundation to many other forms of training modalities, its essence and intention (the system) creates balance for effective strengthening and efficiency of movement. I mentioned during the event last Saturday that as a sports person, I prefer some form of rigidity rather than too much flexibility in my body. (That being said, split was never on my to do list)

I prioritize (and largely believe in) integrated mobility and muscular elasticity. These came about from my background of trainings. I coined integrated mobility to refer to the ability (of a joint that is right in its place) to move with good range of motion without the risk of injury- a little more to feel good in the body, not less to feel outright stiff. Muscular elasticity assimilates that of a spring that recoils and recycles energy in the entire system. This is possible because of the intention to facilitate the gliding of tissues in the body and tap on the stretch-reflex properties of muscles that create movement.

and what has it done for me as a practitioner?

I can touch my toes? NO, haha. That's part of the process. I think the best takeaway for me is that I maintain a form of homeostasis in my body, when something gets out of order, I feel it right away and I can address it. I am very much aware of my body asI hit the ground when running (it's remarkable how you feel your steps recycle on its own - like a bicycle), and when I glide through the water when I swim. I think being able to do that has made sports enjoyable for me.

My hope for people out there is for them to regain that joy in their activities. J

Pilates for Sports

It's been a pretty busy period juggling work, and planning for work- the latter involved more travelling and meetups than I had anticipated. But all's been well. I'm grateful for this experience. I think I've taken a huge step out of my comfort zone trying to pursue something that's true to my heart. 

I can't reveal much because there're still many unknowns although also many plans in the pipeline. Slowly but surely..

On a side note, time flies! It will be the end of August soon, and the event for endurance sports is this Saturday! Haha, friends are more excited than I am... They've already texted me that they can't wait! So blessed to have them support this venture, and also, it has been my hope for people to see how Pilates and sports training are actually complementary and WHOLE. 

 

In the hope that such initiative will follow through, I will be starting a class on Thursday evenings at 6pm at Ilies Soma Pilates studio at Holland Village.

TADAHHHH! PM for details, or email^^ mobility.fitness.pilates@gmail.com

xoxo

Training for 113 Aquathlon

Last Friday night after bible study we had some time for fellowship and in the midst of discussion about the unearthly swim squad my swim coach organized, I realized I could well head into the pool at the same time without the mind boggle to set my head in its place. 🤣

So because I was honestly inspired to do so, I'd posted I was back in action for my first swim the next day and my friend said about joining the 113 Aquathlon. (Aiks!) So I did (has she?). I sure hope so... We are going to attempt the standard distance excluding the bike leg, so that would give me an opportunity to fine tune my swim technique and probably improve on my run before I decide if I would join the standard distance triathlon... (next year?), but out of the blue yesterday I got volunteered to participate in Ironman (70.3) events next time.. (SURE.) 

To cut the story short, my intention for this post is to establish my (training) periodization program. When I sign up for events, I always plan for success (to complete comfortably) even if competition is secondary. I feel that keeps me in the game for a longer period of time, and to understand the athletes under my charge better.

So because I have exactly 3 months before the race on 20th October, an initial goal/training platform (mesocycle) would look something like that:

• first month (20/7-20/8): work on 5-km runs (current at 27min, aim to complete 5km in 25min), progressively maintaining speed for an increment of 500m; fine tune swim technique (currently employing the total immersion swim style) and work my way back up to 1-km consecutive laps.
• ~1 week recovery, maintain routine of regular Pilates practice and strength training^ and complete a short brick at the end of recovery week (25/8): 5-km run, 750-m swim

So exciting. I always believe in the potential of marrying sports training and Pilates for athletic conditioning!

Alright! Off to train!