See how martial arts and Pilates can work together

Pilates builds core, abdominal and back strength. These are essential components for martial artists to hone their craft and prevent injuries. Shoulders and hamstrings are among the areas prone to injuries for martial artists. Injuries usually occur because the body, muscles and bones are not held in proper alignment and as a result many self-inflicted injuries occur to martial artists due to repetitive movements while using improper posture. This is usually a result of some muscles being too strong and tight while others are too loose and weak. Regular and dedicated practice, martial arts and Pilates exercise can work together to correct muscular imbalances, improve balance, coordination and much more. 

How martial arts and Pilates are connect

Joseph Pilates himself worked with boxers, evidence in itself that his system of exercise applies well to martial artists.

Stretching: It was Joseph Pilates’ belief that the body is healthier when it practices stretching, strengthening and controlled exercises in addition to the actual sport itself. While many martial artists have some form of this in their routines it is often hurried through in favor of training the actual martial arts activity.

Breathing: Some martial artists attempt to meditate regularly with focus on breathing. This is also in line with Pilates, slow, steady, purposeful breathing with focus exhaling during the exertion of a muscle.

Strong lower body: Martial artists require strong glutes and legs so that the legs feel lighter allowing them to perform their kicks with less effort.

Stabilization: Stabilization of the scapular region is also emphasized in Pilates. Keeping shoulders away from your ears, keeping your shoulder blades (scapula) lying flat on the back of your rib cage, lengthening the neck creating a longer spine.

Posture: Strengthening the correct muscle for correct posture helps prevent back injuries, creating longer lines in the body. This creates space in the joints and bones that a martial artists needs in case of a misstep, bad turn or punch while practicing. This can be the difference between a quick shake it off type injury vs. A permanent one. 

Mind, body, spirit, focus, stability, concentration, purposeful breathing, precision and fluidity of movement are some of the characteristics of martial arts. These are also many of the characteristics of Pilates. Nowadays when Pilates is mentioned people think of actors, dancers and exercise that is commonly thought to be just for women. But, Joseph Pilates was a man. He trained in many forms of movement including boxing and later taught self-defense.

Functional workout: Pilates is a functional workout and great for athletes and martial artists. In martial arts every part of the body can be used as a weapon. Pilates will help stabilize all parts of your body. Being a physically demanding contact sport/art many martial artists’ careers are ended or set back by recurring pain or injuries to hips, shoulders, knees, wrists, elbows, feet and hands.

Speed and power: Following the principles of Pilates, greater speed, power, stronger core, range of motion and form will be attained in martial arts.

Mind body connection: The mind-body connection that is common in Pilates is also vital in martial arts training.

Balance: The exercises of Pilates will help improve static and dynamic balance. Static balance allows for the ability to control the body’s center of gravity. Dynamic balance allows for more agility when performing movements.