With Wimbledon upon us, thoughts might be turning to sunshine and strawberries, or maybe long rallies, top spin and volleys. If you are a player of tennis, or any other racket sport, you will be familiar with the agility and speed needed to perform, but also the range of motion and flexibility required to reach the ball, power the racket forward and move from one foot to another. Whether you are a seasoned player, weekend warrior, or competitive player, movement under control is key to being able to perform at your best. Trunk, shoulder and hip rotation are a big part of that.
Sure, you need stability and power from the legs, hips and shoulders, but you also need to be able to rotate the upper torso on the lower torso, stabilise through the core and abdomen whilst creating fast and efficient changes of direction, and tolerate the transmission of forces from the ground and lower body up to the upper body.
This link to a research paper offers a great visual demonstration of the movements occurring during different tennis serves (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3445225/)
Rotation is not limited only to racket sports. Any sports that require the passing of a ball or object to another player, running, swimming, and jumping, all rely on the ability to twist and move in a reciprocal fashion. Just watch the World Cup footballers in action! You will see their torsos, shoulders and hips twisting and rotating to be able to avoid their opponents arm, or perform that goal kick. Simply walking, especially at speed, needs an element of trunk rotation.
Training focuses not only on the strength of an arm to swing a racket, or the power of a leg to kick a ball, but also the core muscles in the trunk, abdomen and spine to create stability, flexibility and efficiency of movement to improve sporting performance.
Pilates can target all of the above. Using stretches and controlled movements performed with repetition, such as an Arm Opener, Threading the Needle, or a Hip Twist (see video below) to name just a few, Pilates based exercise can really enhance your performance and help reduce or avoid injury.
Here at Action First Physiotherapy we offer a selection of Pilates and exercise classes in our light and air conditioned studio. Or if you prefer one to one guidance our expert Pilates instructors can see you on an individual basis for tailored exercises.
And Physiotherapy is not just for injury rehabilitation and recovery. Advice, massage, exercise prescription and movement analysis can really add to your overall strength and endurance in your chosen sport.
So, if you would like to try a class, or feel that you would like a Physiotherapy consultation to discuss your needs and target your chosen therapy to your goals whether in sport, or daily activities then complete our online booking form below or contact our friendly reception staff to enquire about making an appointment appropriate for your needs.
