When we are doing dynamic activities, such as skiing, we want our big muscle groups to be on-line in such a way that they get active when the time is appropriate, and then inhibited when they are no longer needed.
The key words for optimal sports performance are Adaptability and Resiliency.
Not that “C” word. Or more commonly known as – CORE.
There is this huge false notion that a continual contraction of the belly muscles (even if a light one) during dynamic activity is required to the keep the trunk strong and stable. Sadly, doing this is actually causing HUGE counter-strain on the joints of the spine.
It also zaps the energy of the body by causing inefficient movement leading to less flow in the activity.
What would you rather have?
Lots of flow and extra energy to ski more, or an achy back and a skiing style that is dis-connected and lacking grace?
If you haven’t tried this simple, yet highly effective standing scan exercise, it will prime your senses so you can tell when you are contracting muscles that don’t need to be turned on.
It has helped so many of my clients find a standing posture on solid ground.
The beauty of this 10-minute exercise is that it can be applied to the ski hill too – especially for those of you who tend to live back in you heels while skiing.
In my ski-prep intensives, we take this concept of finding amazing standing posture into much more dynamic exercises that will completely change the way you ski.
Check out my Fall 2013 Ski Prep Dates HERE.
Irene.
(since I posted this, Stacy Burrows a colleague -in the Feldenkrais realm – and also a physical therapist practicing in LA posted this great article in the Huffington Post that sums the 4 myths about core strengthening. She also gives credit to the love BABY LIV! – thanks Stacy!)
