Pilates for Injury Prevention and Training for Elite Athletes

February 27, 2025•2 min read

In elite sports, injury prevention, and efficient training methods are paramount. While athletes focus on honing their skills and pushing their physical limits, it is crucial to maintain a strong and balanced body to avoid injuries and maximize performance. At Studio 7 Pilates, I provide Group Equipment Classes, Private Training Sessions and Duet or Semi-Private training. In this blog, we will explore how Pilates classes in Kalispell serve as a valuable tool for injury prevention and training for elite athletes, helping them stay at the top of their game.

Core Strength and Stability

A strong and stable core is the foundation of optimal athletic performance. Pilates focuses on strengthening the deep muscles of the abdomen, back, and pelvic floor, providing a solid base for all movements. By targeting these core muscles, Pilates improves stability, balance and overall body control, reducing the risk of injuries caused by imbalances or poor alignment. Elite athletes can benefit from enhanced core strength, which improves power transfer, agility and explosiveness during dynamic movements required in sports like basketball, soccer and tennis.

Flexibility and Range of Motion

Flexibility and range of motion are essential for athletes across various disciplines. Pilates emphasizes controlled and precise movements, helping improve flexibility without sacrificing strength. Increased flexibility reduces the risk of muscle strains, tears and joint-related injuries. Moreover, it aids post-workout recovery by promoting blood circulation and alleviating muscle tightness or soreness.

Injury rehabilitation

Elite athletes often face the challenge of recovering from injuries while minimizing setbacks in their training regimens. Pilates can play a vital role in injury rehabilitation by providing a low-impact, controlled environment for recovery exercises. Pilates exercises can be tailored to target specific areas affected by injury, gradually rebuilding strength and mobility without exacerbating the condition. The emphasis on body awareness and alignment in Pilates helps athletes regain balance and symmetry, reducing the likelihood of compensatory movements that may lead to future injuries.

Mental Focus and Stress Relief

Elite athletes require physical strength, mental focus and clarity to perform at their best. Pilates incorporates mindful breathing techniques, concentration and precise movements, promoting mental focus and reducing stress. By practicing Pilates regularly, athletes can improve their ability to remain present, calm and focused during high-pressure situations, enhancing their performance on the field or court.

Postural Alignment and Injury Prevention

Proper postural alignment is crucial for elite athletes to perform optimally and prevent injuries. Pilates emphasizes spinal alignment, shoulder stability and overall body awareness, helping athletes develop good posture on and off the field.

Pilates classes provide a comprehensive system that supports athletes’ performance, longevity and overall well-being. Integrating Pilates into their training routines can help elite athletes reach new heights while minimizing the risk of injuries and optimizing their athletic potential. If you are looking for a Pilates class for injury prevention, contact Studio 7 Pilates.

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Amy Noel

Many moons ago, while attending a pre-professional dance program in Los Angeles, I got my first glimpse into what Pilates could do for the body. One of my teachers - a beautiful, classically trained dancer - was no longer struggling with an injury that had been plaguing her. Additionally, I noticed her strength and technique had improved noticeably. I asked her if she was supplementing with any particular cross-training and she told me she was taking Pilates! The seed was planted. Fast forward to 2014; I was now gratefully passing on my love of dance to my own students. I had a 1 year old kiddo and I’d just had my hip replaced. (In searching for my own healing, the seed grew!) Time for a Pilates Certification! I received my classical Pilates education under the gifted tutelage of Shauna Lazlo, Master Instructor for Peak Pilates®. I am a Peak Level III comprehensive instructor. For the past 5 years I’ve worked around this beautiful Flathead Valley at multiple gyms and studios. Through this work, not only have I gained immeasurable experience working with dancers, athletes, and just about every other make and model; I’ve discovered that I have a particular affinity for working with the aging population. Joint replacements, stenosis, rotator cuff issues; all have walked through my door. It’s been wonderful to witness the growth and improvement from a regular Pilates practice with these clients.** In February of 2020 (yes, before the shutdown) the boutique studio I worked at closed its doors. I was facing the reality that I might have to stop teaching and that just, was not, an option. I never planned on having a studio of my own, and yet Studio 7 was born; out of love, a nerd-like passion for movement, and absolute necessity. There were many obstacles; opening in March 2020(?!), not having a business plan, no website, the list goes on. Fast forward to today! I could not be more grateful for the experience gained, and relationships cultivated, between clients and staff alike. I look forward to many more years of teaching, and learning from, each and every one of you in my home away from home. When I am not in the studio, you will find me attached to a snowboard chasing my family on the mountain or, weather permitting, dipping my toes in the lake while watching my 10-year-old rule at life. I’m a wannabe hiker so I am looking forward to growing this passion in this beautiful valley I call home.

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