5 Ways to Incorporate Pilates into Your Daily Grind

In Pilates we always work from the inside out. That means that before we work the peripheral parts of the body like the arms and legs, the inner core or Powerhouse needs to be strong and stable. When we can apply this principle to our daily activities, we can do Pilates all day long without even getting on a mat or a reformer. Here is how.

Behind the Wheel:  When driving, always adjust your seat to a 90 degree angle so that your back stays straight. Firmly press your hands into the steering wheel and pull your abdominals in and up to lift your lower back bones. Reach the crown of your head to the sun roof and imagine your bellybutton getting higher than the steering wheel.

Waiting on line- Instead of impatiently shifting your weight from side to side, keep your weight centered on both legs. Lift through the arches of your feet so that your weight isn't sinking into the floor. Reach the crown of your head to ceiling, lift your abdominals, and reach your sitz bones downward towards the floor.

Watching tv- Sitting on the sofa and watching tv does not have to be synonomous with couch potato. While watching your favorite show, sit towards the front edge of the couch and firmly place your feet into the floor. If your feet don't touch the floor place them on an ottoman or stool. Pressing your hands firmly into the couch, Scoop your abdominals in and up to lengthen your spine and cinch your waist. Keeping your back lifted, lift your leg and reach your heel towards the tv screen. Repeat on the opposite side.

Carrying and Lifting-  Whether you are carrying a heavy purse, an infant carrier or a toddler, balance your load by shifting your upper body weight to equal it on the other side. Visualize you are carrying an identical object on the opposite of your body side and try to keep both sides of the spine equally balanced.  Switch sides often in order to prevent overdevelopement of muscles on one side.

Pushing a Stroller- When done with a little concentration and body awareness, pushing a baby stroller can be an amazing Powerhouse workout. Always lift your waist and chest and keep your shoulders back rather than leaning into the stroller. Lightly grip your stroller handles and imagine that your are pushing the stroller forward with